Women to Watch in the Tire Industry

TIA will recognize women in the tire industry inside the pages of its Spring 2015 issue of Today’s Tire Industry.

The special 12-page section, called Women to Watch in the Tire Industry, celebrates the accomplishments of women who have enriched the tire industry through their commitment, leadership and determination, the association said.

“The tire industry has always been noted as being a man’s world,” TIA President Freda Pratt-Boyer said. “This magazine showcases the success stories of many women in the industry and highlights the vital roles that they play. We hope that this effort will elevate the image of women in the profession and provide women currently in the industry and those considering careers in the industry with inspiration and motivation.”

The following women are featured:

Cara Adams, senior project engineer, race tire development, Bridgestone Americas – Akron, Ohio
Beth Barron, VP of operations, Chabill’s Tire and Auto Service – Morgan City, La.
Tammy Belldina, manager, Tire Lady’s Rainbow Tire – Morgantown, W.Va.
Deborah Bjorklund, president, TMR Holdings, The Main Resource – Sarasota, Fla.
Maria Borrelli, president/CEO, Pro 1 Tire Service – Brooklyn, N.Y.
Jamie Bullis, lead technician, Firestone Complete Auto Care – Minnetonka, Minn.
DD Coley, president, Consumer Tire Pros – Chardon, Ohio
Christine Croucher, owner, Tire Lady’s Rainbow Tire – Morgantown, W.Va.
Pat Fleischmann, director of first impressions, Community Tire Pros & Auto Repair – Phoenix, Ariz.
Audra Fordin, owner and executive director, Great Bear Automotive and Women Auto Know – Flushing, N.Y.
Fran Jones, plant manager, Bridgestone Americas Aiken Passenger Tire Plant, Bridgestone Americas – Graniteville, S.C.
Chris Karbowiak, chief administrative officer, chief risk officer and executive VP, VP and senior officer, Bridgestone Americas and Bridgestone Corp. – Nashville, Tenn.
Michelle Lane, OTR marketing director, Bridgestone – Nashville, Tenn.
Jill Marcotte, partner, chief supply officer, Dealer Tire LLC – Cleveland
Viktoria Petersons, service coordinator, Discount Tire – Richmond, Texas
Carol Rice, VP of business development, Tech International – Johnstown, Ohio
Katrina Smith, manager, Phoenix Auto Center Tire Pros – Phoenix, Ore.
Christie Stock, president, Associated Tire Stores Tire Pros – Logan, Utah

Discount Tire & Service Centers has a new sponsorship deal with the Los Angeles Angels for the 2024 season. Discount Tire said this partnership will not only benefit its customers with season-long promotions and giveaways but will also support local non-profits.

"We're thrilled to launch this strategic partnership with the Los Angeles Angels," said Sergio Andonian, president, Discount Tire & Service Centers. "As neighbors, from Anaheim, we are dedicated to serving our local communities and providing quality tire & automotive service at the most competitive prices. Together, we look forward to making a positive and lasting impact in the communities. Add baseball to the mix, and with this winning combination, the possibilities are endless."