Today on Why Manufacturing, we’re talking with Ryan Miller from General Dynamics Mission Systems in Marion, Virginia. Ryan is a Program Manager supporting advanced communications systems for the U.S. military. He’s relatively new to manufacturing but brings a strong background in leadership, logistics, and software systems from his time in the Navy and defense tech sector.
In this episode, we’ll talk about what it’s like to step into manufacturing from a different industry, how his military mindset shaped his early success, and what’s surprised him most about working in a fast-moving, high-stakes production environment. Whether you’re curious about program management, defense manufacturing, or what career growth looks like in your first five years—Ryan’s story has something for you.

SWVA Manufacturing Careers (open jobs / updated weekly): swvam.org/mfgcareers

General Dynamics Mission Systems: gdmissionsystems.com