Professional Qualifications
Ryan S. Johnson, Ph.D., has prepared for a career in labor arbitration through advanced academic study, extensive university teaching, practical experience in labor relations, and years of focused apprenticeship under an experienced labor arbitrator. His qualifications reflect a commitment to careful preparation, objective analysis, and professional service as a neutral decision maker.
Labor Arbitration Experience
Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service
Ryan serves on the roster of arbitrators maintained by the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS), an independent federal agency that provides mediation and arbitration services in labor-management disputes. As an FMCS arbitrator, he is available for appointment in disputes arising under collective bargaining agreements in both the private and federal sectors.
FMCS roster arbitrators are expected to maintain the highest standards of impartiality, integrity, and professionalism. Ryan is committed to conducting hearings fairly, treating all participants with respect, and issuing well-reasoned decisions based on the record and the parties' collective bargaining agreement.
Academic Credentials
Ryan earned his Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Arizona, where his research focused on labor economics, discrimination and segregation, and the effects of public policy on labor markets.
His graduate training emphasized:
Careful evaluation of evidence
Objective analysis
Research methodology
Clear written communication
Logical decision making
These analytical skills continue to inform his work as an arbitrator.
Continuing Professional Development
Ryan believes that effective arbitrators never stop learning. He remains actively engaged in the study of labor arbitration through continued reading, review of arbitration decisions, and ongoing professional development. He is committed to maintaining current knowledge of labor arbitration principles and to continually refining his skills as a neutral decision maker.
Apprenticeship in Labor Arbitration
From 2014 through 2021, Ryan completed a seven-year apprenticeship under nationally recognized labor arbitrator Mario F. Bognanno.
During this apprenticeship, he gained practical experience in every stage of the arbitration process, including:
Observing arbitration hearings
Analyzing testimony and documentary evidence
Discussing procedural and evidentiary issues
Evaluating the parties' contractual arguments
Preparing mock arbitration awards
Studying principles of labor arbitration and award writing
This extended period of mentorship provided practical training that complemented his academic background and prepared him for service as a labor arbitrator.
University Teaching
Since 2002, Ryan has taught economics at the university level, including undergraduate, MBA, and Executive MBA programs.
His teaching appointments have included:
University of Arizona
Brigham Young University–Idaho
Southern Virginia University
Among the courses he has taught are Labor and Public Policy, Law and Economics, managerial economics, and other economics courses. Teaching these subjects has strengthened his ability to communicate complex issues clearly, manage structured discussions, and explain difficult concepts in a logical and organized manner.
Professional Philosophy
Ryan believes that an arbitrator's qualifications extend beyond academic credentials and professional appointments. Equally important are preparation, impartiality, careful listening, respect for the parties, and disciplined decision making.
Every appointment is approached with the understanding that the parties have entrusted the arbitrator with resolving an important dispute. Ryan is committed to honoring that trust by conducting hearings professionally, evaluating the evidence objectively, and issuing decisions that are thoughtful, well reasoned, and firmly grounded in the record.
Academic Background & Instruction
In addition to his legal and arbitration work, Ryan Johnson has experience as a college educator. He has taught economics at the collegiate level, including large lecture courses with up to 400 students.
Why This is Important
The ability to clearly communicate complex concepts
Strong organization and presentation skills
Experience managing large groups and structured environments
A disciplined and prepared approach to instruction and discussion
Teaching large lecture courses requires clarity, control of the environment, and the ability to engage a wide audience. Ryan Johnson brings these same skills into arbitration proceedings, ensuring that hearings remain organized, focused, and productive.
Appointments
Parties interested in working with Ryan are encouraged to reach out to discuss availability and scheduling.