Ryan Eicher
Store Manager | Joe's Tire | Age: 32
What was your first job in the industry?
I started out in the bays as a tire tech. In fact, my job at Joe’s Tire was my first job anywhere when I was only 16 years old. This is the only company I’ve ever worked for and now I’m an owner.
What attracted you to the industry?
I’ve always enjoyed work that was hands-on. I like to be in the action, and light duty automotive work appealed to that part of me.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career?
The transition from tire tech to owner was a challenge. I went from feeling responsible for myself and my own work to also being responsible for the work of others and ways that we could make the process more efficient.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
My business partners Roy, Jake, and Joe Hershberger have had a huge impact and influence on the way I approach my work. I’ve learned that we’re stronger when we make decisions together because each of us brings a different perspective and experience.
What is your biggest accomplishment in the industry?
My biggest accomplishment was when I was able to buy into ownership at multiple locations. It made me feel a sense of pride that I was able to work my way up to the point that I would have something to leave to my family.
Tell us about your current job and responsibilities. How do you spend your work day?
As a manager of our retail location, my day-to-day processes include answering phones, helping customers, and keeping the shop running smoothly.
What’s one thing you wish someone would have told you before you took your current job?
I wish that someone would have told me how to manage stress in an efficient way.
Tell us about your family.
Delilah and I have been married for six years and we have a 1 1/2 year old girl named Leia. I like music and play multiple instruments and my wife enjoys art and painting.
What did you learn about yourself in the course of the COVID-19 pandemic?
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, I learned that I have the ability to make tough decisions and live with the results.
Name a talent you wish you had.
I wish drawing would be one of my talents, this would allow me to compete with my wife.
How do you recover from a bad or stressful day?
At the end of a stressful day, playing music or video games is what gets me back in the zone.
What’s the best book you’ve read lately?
Hunting Eichmann is a great book that I read recently.
What’s your favorite, can’t-miss podcast?
History That Doesn’t Suck is a wonderful podcast.
If you won an Olympic gold medal, how would you have earned it? (You can make up a sport.)
If I won an Olympic Gold Medal, It would be for the fastest tire changer.
What’s the biggest issue facing the industry today?
Our biggest issue facing the industry today is employee shortages.
What advice would you give to tire dealers who are desperate to find good employees?
You don’t find good employees, you build them.
What do you expect to be doing 20 years from now?
Twenty years from now, I plan to still be in the tire business with a higher level of profitability, allowing me to spend more time with family and traveling.
