3 MIN READ
Ryan Abbott is a finalist for WashingtonExec's 2023 Pinnacle Awards in the Defense Exec of the Year category. The Pinnacle Awards, now in their sixth year, recognize extraordinary individuals like Abbott who tirelessly prioritize the nation's technological needs above all else.
For Abbott, service is not just a profession; it's a calling etched into his very being. Having spent five years in the U.S. Army, serving in Afghanistan and Iraq as a Military Police Officer, his dedication to safeguarding the nation knows no bounds. Upon his return, the desire to continue serving led him to pursue law enforcement; however, he found himself in the world of technology and management instead.
Transitioning to the civilian sector, Abbott found himself able to still put the mission first. His post-Army journey led him to the Terrorist Screening Center, where he supported vital IT projects and eventually became a program manager overseeing the mission successes of multiple agencies. "It was a privilege to continue supporting the warfighters in a new capacity," Abbott said.
In 2021, Abbott discovered a new home at MetroStar, a company undergoing rapid growth in its Defense Business Unit. Drawn by the challenges of the role and the team’s desire to positively impact the nation’s warfighters, he joined the organization’s ranks. What captivated him most was the visionary zeal of Ali Reza Manouchehri, MetroStar's Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder.
"Ali's vision for a company that he founded and is still a part of was incredible to hear firsthand," said Abbott. "I remember getting off the phone with him and thinking that MetroStar was going to disrupt how we can support missions, and I wanted to be a part of that disruption."
Today, Abbott finds himself at the forefront of innovative projects, steering the course of the Marine Corps MISTM program and the DevCom OTA work at MetroStar. The MISTM program serves as a beacon of modernization, bringing together brilliant minds to support the Marines' vital missions. Meanwhile, DevCom OTA empowers Abbott's team to harness the power of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, enhancing the Army's capabilities and equipping soldiers with state-of-the-art weaponry.
Yet, beyond the thrill of groundbreaking projects, Abbott's true joy lies in the people he interacts with daily at MetroStar and client sites. His commitment extends beyond boardrooms and into the heart of every people-first endeavor he tackles. He strives to nurture growth and support the business units in every way possible.
Whether he's basking in the sun at the beach, cheering for his favorite teams (the Orioles or the Commanders), spending quality time with his family, or embarking on adventures to yet another National Park, Abbott's positive spirit remains unyielding, much like his dedication to serving his nation and its defenders.
Stay tuned on Nov. 16 via MetroStar’s LinkedIn to hear if Abbott is selected as the Defense Executive of the Year by WashingtonExec. In the meantime, explore other leaders at MetroStar and their accomplishments here.
Stay up-to-date with industry news and more. Subscribe to our newsletter.
