Ramblin’ Forward: CS Grad Matthew Kistner Looks Back on Driving the Wreck

As he prepares to graduate, Computer Science (CS) major Matthew Kistner is closing a chapter as the Ramblin’ Wreck driver. 

The Ramblin’ Wreck, a 1930 Ford Model A Sport Coupe, has been a beloved symbol of Georgia Tech tradition since 1961. It’s a familiar sight around campus, appearing at special events and leading the football team onto the field. 

More than a ceremonial role, being the Wreck’s driver comes with significant responsibilities and a deep commitment to preserving Georgia Tech traditions. Kistner took on the challenge of balancing his studies with managing the car and its schedule.  

“All of my weeks since January have been about 40 hours of commitment with just the Wreck alone, outside of school. It is a full-time job, seven days a week,” he said. 

Yet Kistner has made the most of every opportunity. 

Expanding the Reach of the Wreck 

One of Kistner’s goals was to take the Wreck farther than ever before. This year, the car traveled over 3,000 miles to 10 states, including Syracuse, New York, and Naples, Florida.  

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“We went to Syracuse for the (football game against Georgia Tech). That was the farthest north the car had ever traveled,” Kistner said. 

His first encounter with the Wreck happened in 2019 during a game at Clemson, which drove him to reignite the tradition of taking the Wreck to away games.  

“It’s something special to see Tech’s spirit in a different city,” he said. 

Innovating the Icon 

Kistner’s problem-solving background played a role in enhancing the Wreck’s safety and performance. He overhauled the vehicle’s electrical system and installed turn signals to make it road-safe. Exposed fuses made it dangerous to drive in the rain, but now the system is fully enclosed and waterproof, ensuring the Wreck is safe to drive in all weather conditions. 

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He also streamlined the scheduling process for student rides by creating a signup sheet for organizations.   

“This made it 10 times easier for me to manage and made the Wreck more accessible,” he said. 

Maximizing Opportunities  

In addition to driving the Wreck, Kistner participated in several other projects and organizations on campus. 

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“I wanted to get as involved as possible with different things on campus, not just one thing,” he said. 

As fundraising chair for the Ramblin’ Reck Club, Kistner raised a record-breaking $27,000. He also became a campus tour guide, and at one point he held responsibility for all sports print media on campus. He served as sports editor for the Technique student newspaper and assistant sports editor on the inaugural staff to bring back the Blueprint Yearbook.  

Kistner said managing time is important to finding life balance. His strategic approach to class scheduling, such as taking summer semesters and stacking hard classes, made his final years more feasible.  

“CS is an at-your-own-pace major, and programming is something you can do at any hour of the day. It lends itself to the night owl, which is beneficial to me,” he said. 

Support and Mentorship 

Prior to coming to Georgia Tech, Kistner had never programmed.  

“It wasn’t something I knew or was familiar with at all,” he said. 

School of Computing Instruction lecturer Melinda McDaniel played a pivotal role in shaping his academic journey.   

“She was the first instructor I had in CS, and her class launched my interest in the subject.”   

Later, he enjoyed School of Interactive Computing Assistant Professor Jessica Roberts’s EdTech class and her contribution to homecoming week. 

“She’s been one of my favorite professors at Georgia Tech,” he said. “One of my favorite memories is when she made a cake shaped like the Wreck for the band during homecoming week.” 

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Looking Ahead and Advice for Future Yellow Jackets 

As he wraps up his time at Georgia Tech, Kistner offers simple advice for future students: seize opportunities.  

“Leave no regrets,” he said. “Try as many things as possible and make the most of the opportunities you’re given. Breathe in and take your moments. When riding the Wreck or any special moment, think about your five senses and focus on them to maximize the experience.”   

Kistner will continue his involvement with the Wreck by training his successor. After graduation, he plans to pursue a career in sports analytics and blend his technical skills with his passion for athletics.  

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His time as the Wreck’s driver may be coming to an end, but his legacy will continue in the memories he created and the innovations he made. 

Those interested in joining the Ramblin’ Reck Club and continuing this iconic tradition can find more information here.