"This region has it all - thriving manufacturing and logistics industries, top-rated healthcare facilities, abundant natural resources, and nationally acclaimed education systems. I was born here, grew up here, have made my career in the central region, and I am so excited for the opportunity to continue supporting these communities as they grow and prosper."
- Ryan Waldrep
Ryan Waldrep's economic development experience, background, and knowledge make him a strong addition as he supports the communities in our Central region. His proven track record includes strategic planning, industrial park development, domestic and international recruitment, industry retention and expansion, as well as the development and support of small business and entrepreneurial ecosystem programs.
Ryan previously served as the President of the Dublin-Laurens County Development Authority. His career in economic development spans more than two decades in the Central Region. He has previously held positions as the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Region 9 Project Manager, President of the Telfair County Chamber of Commerce and Development Authority, and economic development planner for the Heart of Georgia Altamaha Regional Commission.
Additionally, Ryan served as the Assistant Director of GDEcD’s Entrepreneur and Small Business program, where he led the Georgia Small Business Rock Stars program that highlights innovative small businesses in Georgia.
Ryan earned his Certification in Economic Development through the International Economic Development Council in 2006 and became an Economic Development Finance Professional through the National Development Council in 2012. He is a member of the Georgia Economic Developers Association and the International Economic Development Council. Ryan is also a graduate of Leadership Georgia and Leadership Telfair County.
A native of McRae, Georgia, Ryan holds degrees in Public Relations and Public Management from Valdosta State University. He and his wife Amanda live in Dublin with their two sons. Ryan is an avid but average golfer, and is always on the search for the perfect brisket rub.
About the Central Region
322,000
Available Labor Force
BLS, December 2025
11,000
Train Cars per Week
Strategic Location & Connectivity
- Interstate Access: The Central region is the connection point where Interstates 75, 16 and 475 meet.
- Rail Connectivity: Norfolk Southern Railroad's Brosnan Yard handles approximately 11,000 train cars a week, employing 100 people.
- Air Access: In addition to direct flights to Biloxi Washington, D.C., Middle Georgia Regional Airport has plans to expand their runway to accommodate commercial wide-body aircraft.
Diverse Economy & Workforce
- Skilled Workforce: Home to a technical and capable workforce, with a labor force of nearly 322,000.
- Industry Leaders: Insurance giant, GEICO, and the Navicent Health Medical Center in Macon and are the region's top employers with 5,740 and 4,600 employees, respectively.
- Aerospace Industry: Macon is home to growing aerospace companies including Embraer, Dean Baldwin, and Stevens Aerospace and Defense Systems.
Innovation & Entrepreneurship
- Mercer Innovation Center: The Mercer Innovation Center introduces students to potential investors who can help them transform an idea into a real business opportunity.
- Center of Innovation for Aerospace: The state’s Center of Innovation for Aerospace provides Georgia companies with the technical expertise and resources they need to grow and compete globally.
- SparkMacon: Central Georgia’s first makerspace supports companies from their initial ideation and prototyping phases to manufacturing.
Quality of Life
- Thriving Downtown: Downtown Macon is known as the birthplace of the greatest music of all time, as well as historical buildings and landmarks.
- Adventure Outside: Enjoy miles of trails and river activities along the Ocmulgee River.
