Ryan Nelson joined the Illinois Tech coaching staff in 2003 as the Diving Coach. Prior to his arrival, Nelson served as an assistant coach at the University of Illinois (UIC) at Chicago from 1999-2000.

As an athlete, Nelson brings a legacy of success to the Hawks. A former all-conference diver at UIC, Nelson was a four-year letter-winner for the Flames from 1995-1999. During his tenure, he was a four-time NCAA Zone Championship Qualifier and a three-time All-Midwestern Collegiate Conference selection. Nelson served as the Flames co-captain during the 1998-99 season and was named UIC Athlete of the Year.

In his time at Illinois Tech, Nelson has coached IIT divers to 11 NAIA All-American Titles and 1 NAIA National Championship.  Nelson also works as the Assistant Director in the Office of Admissions.