Gregory Puckett brings a dynamic blend of strategic leadership and a lifelong appreciation for the arts to his support of Ballet Arizona. Born in California and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, Gregory’s diverse background has cultivated a deep understanding of community impact and innovation. He currently channels this passion into his role planning commercial operations for Waymo, where for the past seven years, he has been driven by the transformative potential of autonomous driving to revolutionize society by enhancing safety on our roads and returning valuable time currently spent behind the wheel. This commitment to progress is mirrored in his dedication to fostering cultural growth within Arizona.
Gregory’s leadership extends beyond the realm of technological advancement. He currently serves as Board Chair at The Opportunity Tree, demonstrating his dedication to local non-profit initiatives and his belief in empowering individuals. His commitment to community engagement is further highlighted by his participation in Class 41 of Valley Leadership. Prior to his impactful work at Waymo, Gregory honed his operational skills managing rideshare operations for Arizona, New Mexico, and Hawaii at Lyft, showcasing his ability to lead and scale innovative services. His connection to Arizona is strong, having called the state home for the past 16 years, and he resides in Scottsdale with his wife, Chandler, and their two young daughters.
Gregory’s passion for the arts is deeply rooted in his personal history. He possesses a unique understanding of the dedication and discipline required for artistic pursuits, having himself engaged in intensive childhood studies with the goal of becoming a professional orchestral percussionist. This early immersion in music instilled in him a profound respect for the performing arts and their vital role in enriching communities, a belief he actively champions.
Holding bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Systems Engineering from the University of Florida and the Georgia Institute of Technology, respectively, Gregory seamlessly integrates his analytical mindset with an appreciation for creativity and human connection. When not focused on bringing the benefits of autonomous driving to the world or contributing to his community, Gregory enjoys the performance arts, fine dining, and the pursuit of the perfect espresso at home.
