Sarah Thompson
Store manager | Fantastic Rentals dba Tire Time | Age: 28
What was your first job in the industry?
Small sales.
What attracted you to the industry?
I wanted something different than what I had been doing and this job fell in my lap. I knew I was quick to learn.
What’s the biggest challenge you have faced in your career?
The fact that this is a primarily a male’s career choice. I found that the men in this industry implied I was not capable of doing the manual work for installations. I watched and waited until I could try it on my own with little to no assistance. For a time, I worked sales as well as a shop hand for the better part of two years. Now that we are fully staffed, I assist in the shop as needed.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
Definingly the owner of this company, Michael Hughes. He always had faith in my abilities and has given me the opportunity to prove myself in this line of work, regardless of my gender.
What’s your biggest accomplishment in the industry?
I came into this industry knowing nothing about tires, sales or even the installation/flat repair process. My biggest accomplishment is mastering all aspects of my job. From running the front office with sales to working in the back with the men. I found that it is easier to run a shop full of men if you prove that you are not above working on their level.
