Joe Hershberger
Co-Owner and General Manager | Joe’s Tire | Age: 34
What was your first job in the industry?
I started out in the bays as a tire tech.
What attracted you to the industry?
I’ve always enjoyed working on cars and trucks. I enjoy motorsports and the people that I meet there. And, as it turns out, I enjoy retail. The tire industry scratches a lot of those itches.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career?
I’m not really into technology, and it was hard at first for me to adapt to everything moving online. That being said, it’s hard to argue with the opportunities it’s opened up to us and the growth that it’s brought.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
My father is the biggest influence on my life, professionally and personally. He taught me to treat people with respect and to do the right thing even when that is the hardest thing to do.
What is your biggest accomplishment in the industry?
Purchasing new stores and opening new locations has been the most rewarding thing I’ve done professionally. It’s always a rush to move into a new community and watch the unique way we do our business touch the lives of a new group of people.
Tell us about your current job and responsibilities. How do you spend your work day?
As a manager at Joe’s Garage, I oversee operations and perform a lot of hands-on mechanical labor.
What’s one thing you wish someone would have told you before you took your current job?
Nothing comes to mind; I really enjoy my job.
Tell us about your family.
I grew up in a family of 12 kids, so it was a very eventful home. I also have two stepdaughters.
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 adapt to change and conquer tasks.
Name a talent you wish you had.
I would love to win a gold medal in patience.
How do you recover from a bad or stressful day?
After a stressful day, I like to enjoy a cold beer and quiet time to reflect.
What’s the best book you’ve read lately?
I actually have never finished a book in my life.
What’s your favorite, can’t-miss podcast?
I don’t listen to podcasts typically, I listen to music mostly.
If you won an Olympic gold medal, how would you have earned it? (You can make up a sport.)
If I were to win an Olympic gold medal, it would be for misplacing things.
What’s the biggest issue facing the industry today?
One of the biggest issues in the industry today is finding people to employ.
What advice would you give to tire dealers who are desperate to find good employees?
I think you’d need to find the solution for yourself before advising others.
What do you expect to be doing 20 years from now?
In 20 years from now, I hope to be retired!
