Ryan Johnson, Arbitrator
Ryan S. Johnson, Ph.D., is a full-time labor arbitrator based in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and is available for appointment nationwide. He hears disputes arising under collective bargaining agreements in both the private and federal sectors and conducts hearings in person and virtually throughout the United States.
Ryan's interest in labor arbitration began in 2000 while pursuing graduate studies in economics at the University of Arizona. As graduate teaching assistant to nationally recognized labor arbitrator Mario F. Bognanno, he assisted with a graduate course in labor arbitration and was introduced to the unique role of the labor arbitrator. He was drawn to the profession's emphasis on impartiality, careful analysis, and reasoned decision making—qualities that continue to guide his work today.
About Ryan Johnson
From 2014 through 2021, Ryan completed a seven-year apprenticeship under Arbitrator Bognanno. During that time he attended arbitration hearings, discussed procedural and evidentiary issues, analyzed case records, and prepared mock arbitration awards. This extensive apprenticeship provided practical experience in every stage of the arbitration process and reinforced the importance of fairness, preparation, and thoughtful decision making.
Ryan earned his Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Arizona. His academic research focused on labor economics, discrimination and segregation, and the effects of public policy on labor markets. Throughout his academic career he has emphasized objective analysis, careful evaluation of evidence, and clear written communication—skills that naturally complement the work of a labor arbitrator.
Since 2002, Ryan has taught economics at the university level. His teaching experience includes undergraduate, MBA, and Executive MBA programs at Brigham Young University–Idaho, Southern Virginia University, and the University of Arizona. He has taught courses in labor economics, labor and public policy, law and economics, and related subjects, and he continues to teach in the Online MBA and Executive MBA programs at the University of Arizona's Eller College of Management.
In addition to his academic work, Ryan has conducted research and consulting in labor relations and employment policy. His background provides a practical understanding of collective bargaining, workplace organizations, and the economic issues that often arise in labor-management relationships.
Throughout his career, Ryan has been drawn to work that requires careful analysis, thoughtful decision making, and clear written communication. Whether teaching university students, conducting research, or serving as a labor arbitrator, his objective has remained the same: to evaluate the facts objectively, treat people with respect, and reach conclusions that are well reasoned, clearly explained, and firmly grounded in the record.
As an arbitrator, Ryan is committed to conducting hearings that are organized, efficient, and respectful of all participants. He believes every party deserves a full and fair opportunity to present its case and that arbitration decisions should be grounded in the language of the collective bargaining agreement, the evidence presented at hearing, and the governing principles of labor arbitration.
Ryan serves on the roster of arbitrators maintained by the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) and is available to accept appointments throughout the United States. He conducts both in-person and virtual hearings and works with the parties to facilitate an efficient process from appointment through the issuance of a well-reasoned written award.
Why Labor Arbitration?
Ryan has long been drawn to labor arbitration because it combines careful legal and contractual analysis with practical problem solving. Collective bargaining agreements establish the framework for the ongoing relationship between employers and unions, and arbitration plays an essential role in interpreting those agreements fairly and consistently. Serving as a neutral decision maker is both a significant responsibility and a privilege.
Ryan approaches each appointment with the understanding that the parties have entrusted the arbitrator with resolving an important dispute. He is committed to maintaining the highest standards of impartiality, professionalism, and integrity while providing the parties with a hearing that is fair, orderly, and efficient and a decision that is carefully reasoned and firmly grounded in the record.
Appointments
Ryan accepts labor arbitration appointments throughout the United States. Please contact him to discuss a potential appointment, scheduling, or another arbitration-related inquiry.