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Take 5 with Richard Ricks, Managing Partner & CEO, Silver Tree Consulting & Services

Richard Ricks
Managing Partner & CEO, Silver Tree Consulting & Services 

About Silver Tree Consulting & Services: Silver Tree believes Mid-Market organizations are under-served by traditional solution and service integrators. We were established in 2014 - bringing decades of expertise together - to serve our clients in a way that traditional providers are, quite frankly, not!

What makes you excited to go to work each day?

Every day at Silver Tree is an opportunity to make a real impact for our clients, and that’s what excites me the most. I founded this company with the vision of leveling the playing field—helping smaller and mid-sized businesses leverage the same IT capabilities that power the biggest enterprises. Seeing that vision come to life, helping businesses grow, and creating solutions that drive real value keeps me energized.

Technology is evolving faster than ever, and the future is full of possibilities. I love working with our team to stay ahead of these trends, figuring out how we can best harness them to solve complex problems and create new opportunities for our clients. It’s incredibly rewarding to work with companies and show them what’s possible when they have the right technology and a partner they can trust.

At the same time, I’m passionate about the culture we’re building at Silver Tree. We’re not just a service provider; we’re a long-term partner to our clients. I get excited seeing our team deliver on that promise, going beyond expectations to create trusted relationships that make a difference. That combination of driving meaningful results for our clients and building a culture of excellence is what makes me excited to show up every day.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

People might be surprised to know that I’m a huge Star Trek fan. I’ve always been fascinated by its vision of the future—where exploration, innovation, and collaboration drive progress. There’s something inspiring about the way the crew of the Enterprise approaches challenges: with curiosity, teamwork, and a commitment to making things better.

That mindset resonates with me and even influences how I lead. At Silver Tree, we’re explorers of sorts, helping our clients navigate new technologies and boldly go where they haven’t gone before. Plus, let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a good Captain Picard speech or the wisdom of Spock?

Why are you involved with NC TECH and what's your favorite activity or event?

I live in North Carolina. I've built my business in North Carolina, so being involved with NC TECH is a natural extension of my commitment to this community. NC TECH plays such a vital role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth in our state’s tech ecosystem, and I’m proud to be part of that. It aligns perfectly with my values—creating opportunities, giving back, and helping others thrive.

As the founder of NextGen Thriving, which supports marginalized youth, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is to invest in our future. NC TECH’s work has a similar ripple effect—bringing together businesses, leaders, and ideas that shape not just the tech industry but the broader community.

My favorite event has to be Outlook for Tech. It’s where we get a glimpse into the future of technology and its impact on our region and beyond. I love the energy of the event—hearing from thought leaders, engaging in meaningful discussions, and connecting with peers who are just as passionate about pushing boundaries. It’s an inspiring way to start the year and a reminder of why I do what I do.

What are two things on your bucket list (things you want to accomplish or experience in your lifetime)?:

When I reflect on the blessings of my life they have come at a cost. The cost was time to enjoy life and give back to society. One of my bucket list items is to visit every significant national park and treasure in the USA with my family. I would love to spend months just traveling the country and experiencing everything this beautiful country has to offer.

The second would be to assure our Foundation - NextGen Thriving is well positioned to provide future opportunities for skills development for our underprivileged, underserved and disabled youth. These two things are at the top of my bucket list.

If you were a character from the fictional world (movies, shows, books) who would you be and why?:

If I were a fictional character, I would like to be Captain James T. Kirk of the Starship Enterprise. I have always enjoyed new cultures and new places. I have had the opportunity to travel our globe a few times and have tremendously enjoyed experiencing the cultures and locations around the world. If I were Captain Kirk, I could experience them throughout our universe. To go were no one has gone before. The challenge and beauty of it would be invigorating. 


Interested in submitting a piece for the NC TECH blog?

NC TECH is always seeking fresh content and we love to feature our members and leaders as well as showcase your expertise and information. Visit our Marketing Toolkit page to submit Member Spotlights, Take 5 Executive Spotlights, Women Leading in Tech Profiles, and Guest Blogs. 

For more information about sharing your news, contact Mikayla Smith.

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