www.lauriemcdonalddesign.com lauriemcdonalddesign@gmail.com 410.991.4770 laurie mcdonald
Industry TODAY’S FALL/WINTER 2024/VOL 22/ISSUE 1 A PUBLICATION OF THE TIRE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION
Tire Industry Magazine
30-48 PAGE QUARTERLY MAGAZINE
CERTIFIED ATS RAISES THE BAR FOR TECHNICIAN EDUCATION BASIC COMMERCIAL TIRE SERVICE IN SPANISH ENHANCED BASIC EARTHMOVER TIRE SERVICE PROGRAM COMING 2025
PREVIEW INSIDE
What is your place of birth, where you were raised and what schooling have you completed? Born in Hartford, Connecticut. My father was in the insurance industry, and we relocated several times while I was growing up and going through school. I went to kindergarten and start of grade school in Connecticut, then moved to Pennsylvania and lived right outside of Philadelphia for a year and then Carmel, Indiana where I did my Junior High School years. We then landed in Schaumburg, IL where I went to High School. I played varsity soccer for all 4 years and then went on my way to East Lansing and Michigan State University to complete my bachelor’s degree.
DEBRA HAMLIN IS CURRENTLY THE DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS FOR THE COMMERCIAL DEALER NETWORK. Ms. Hamlin provides operational support and leadership around Commercial business functions including TBR, OTR and Ag. Ms. Hamlin oversees leadership and operational support of the BCDN, including (but not limited to) EHS support, expanded service capabilities, and Emergency Road Service and Breakdown support for over 200 Commercial Dealers in the BCDN. Prior to her current role, Ms. Hamlin served as the EHSS Director for the Commercial Division of Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations (BATO). She is experienced with OSHA and MSHA regulations as well as TIA Commercial Tire Standards.
Since joining Bridgestone in the Retail Group in 1997, Hamlin has conceptualized, developed and implemented a scrap tire management program in response to a voluntary tire safety recall, a program so successful it was published as part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) TREAD Act. She also spearheads and organizes volunteer community clean up events for the company. In addition to her role at Bridgestone, she is actively engaged in numerous committees within TIA including training and education, environmental advisory committee (Chair), Next Gen committee, strategic planning and governmental affairs. She is active in the Bridgestone Women Women’s Initiative Network (BWIN) and is spearheading initiatives to partner with Women In Trucking (WIT) association as well. BWIN is an Employee Resource Group within Bridgestone focused on advancing and developing
LOWER SOUTH HALL • LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER
AT THE
MS. HAMLIN ALSO ACTS AS OPERATIONAL LIAISON FOR BRIDGESTONE’S
AT THE
GTE EDUCATIONAL SESSION LINEUP (Subject to change)
When/How did you get started in the tire business? After 8 years in the environmental consulting industry, I started in 1997 in the tire industry with Bridgestone Retail Operations in the Chicago area. My primary focus was to remove all the remaining underground storage tanks from our retail locations. My best recollection when I started with the Retail Organization was having a weeklong in-store experience. Eye opening experience for sure. “MY PRIMARY FOCUS WAS TO REMOVE ALL THE REMAINING UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS FROM OUR RETAIL LOCATIONS.”
North America’s Largest Tire Industry Event, Las Vegas, NV Nov. 5-8, 2024
THE REPAIR ACT, WHICH SEEKS TO ENSHRINE THE RIGHT TO REPAIR FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE Manufacturers continuously adjust systems to reduce compliance costs or enhance functionality and data. To navigate this landscape, tire retailers must customize TPMS training for technicians, covering electronic scan tool management, sensor replacements, and relearn procedures. This session advocates starting with fundamental principles across popular makes, INDUSTRY AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL. models, and brands. By revisiting basics, shop managers and owners can gain a Tires at 2: Successful Tire Dealers Share Their Secrets 2:00 p.m.–3:30 p.m. Moderator: Kevin Rohlwing, Chief Technical Officer, Tire Industry Association Award-winning and nationally renowned retail tire dealers possess a unique combination of key qualities that make them successful. “Successful Tire Dealers Share Their Secrets” has been a cornerstone of TIA’s educational offerings for decades, recognizing that each business holds its own unique formula for prosperity. In this session, the top tire dealers in the industry will discuss the many reasons behind their success as independent tire dealers. Award-winning and nationally renowned retail tire dealers possess a unique combination of key qualities that make them successful. “Successful Tire Dealers Share Their Secrets” has been a cornerstone of TIA’s educational offerings for decades, recognizing that each business holds its own unique formula for prosperity. In this session, the top tire dealers in the industry will discuss the many reasons behind their success as independent tire dealers. WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6 TPMS at 10: Understanding the Basics of TPMS 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Moderator: Shawn Pease, Director of Tire Service, Tire Industry Association Since its universal introduction in the 2008 model year, TPMS has presented tire retailers with a persistent challenge.
TUESDAY, NOV. 5 Tires at 10: The Next Level of Automotive Tire Service Training 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Presenters: Jose Moreno, Tire Service Manager, Tire Industry Association; Ryan Graves, Automotive Tire Service Training Manager, Tire Industry Association Moderator: Shawn Pease, Director of Tire Service, Tire Industry Association TIA has been actively investing in enhancing the Automotive Tire Service (ATS) training and certification program to keep pace with technological advance- ments. These updates specifically address the evolving landscape of passenger, SUV, and light truck tire servicing methods. Notably, the integration of tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) has signifi- cantly impacted the way technicians are trained. This session aims to provide attendees with a comprehensive overview of the key updates to the ATS program, enabling them to understand the essential knowledge and skills required for servic- ing both current and future tires. Truck Tires at 10: Truck Tire Inflation Safety 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Moderator: Kevin Rohlwing, Chief Technical Officer, Tire Industry Association Statistically, one of the most dangerous steps in the truck tire and wheel service industry is inflating the tire. Single piece, multi-piece, tubeless or tube-type, the risks associated with truck tire inflation are always present. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specific requirements for truck tire inflation devices and the indus- try has equally specific guidelines on the steps that must be taken to prevent a separation or spontaneous release of pres- surized air. After attending this session, attendees will gain a thorough under- standing of OSHA standards, industry best practices, and necessary tools/equip- ment to ensure compliance and minimize risks for technicians.
clearer understanding of current TPMS operations and the pivotal role of tools and sensors in restoring functionality post-service. Truck Tires at 10: Demounting and Mounting Truck Tires with TPMS 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Moderator: Kevin Rohlwing, Chief Technical Officer, Tire Industry Association As the truck tire industry increasingly adopts tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), commercial tire dealers will encounter more assemblies with sensors attached to valve stems or secured to rims with bands. Demounting and mounting truck tires with these sensors necessitate additional care to prevent sensor damage. This session will focus on the various configurations technicians may encounter and the steps required for demounting and mounting to safeguard the sensor from potential damage, highlighting the differences between using tire irons and tire changing machines. Tires at 2: Risk Management in a Retail Tire Dealership 2:00 p.m.–3:30 p.m. Moderator: Kevin Rohlwing, Chief Technical Officer, Tire Industry Association In today’s litigious environment, tire retailers must safeguard themselves with insurance against unforeseen accidents. While nobody anticipates wheel-offs or fires, these risks persist and require daily management. This session will look into the most prevalent risks associated with vehicle servicing and maintaining physical facilities. It will detail the implications of accidents involving customers leading to civil litigation. Real-world lawsuit examples against tire retailers will serve as a basis for discussing necessary protective measures in tire and wheel servicing. Additionally, the session will conclude with fire prevention strategies tailored to modern shop environments with a rising prevalence of rechargeable batteries and electric vehicles.
PARTNERSHIP WITH TRUCKERS AGAINST TRAFFICKING (TAT).
DRIVING LEGISLATIVE CHANGE: TIA’S ADVOCACY WINS AND CHALLENGES BY ROY LITTLEFIELD IV VICE PRESIDENT OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, TIA TIA’s PRE-SHOW EVENTS NOV. 4 / Planet Hollywood engagement, diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In 2024, she was awarded as a Top Woman to Watch in transportation by Redefining the Road Magazine. Ms. Hamlin also acts as operational liaison for Bridgestone’s partnership with Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT).
RIGHT TO REPAIR: THE REPAIR ACT (H.R. 906) One of TIA’s most significant legislative efforts this year has been supporting H.R. 906, the REPAIR Act, which seeks to enshrine the Right to Repair for the automotive industry at the federal level. In partnership with 23 other associations, TIA has urged the House Energy and Commerce Committee to advance this crucial bill. The REPAIR Act currently has 56 bipartisan co-sponsors.
drop dramatically. TIA has been actively participating in Family Business Coalition meetings, advocating for permanent repeal to protect the legacy of family-owned tire dealerships across the country. CALIFORNIA ENERGY COMMISSION (CEC) AND TIRE EFFICIENCY PROGRAM On the state level, TIA has been closely working with the California Energy Commission (CEC) as it develops its tire efficiency program. We are advocating for tire dealers to be allowed to legally
• TIA Annual Membership Meeting & Press Conference • Right to Repair Summit • Tire Industry Networking Reception
Hamlin holds a bachelor’s degree in resource development from Michigan State University. She lives in Nashville, TN where she is an active volunteer in her community.
AS WE NAVIGATE A PIVOTAL ELECTION YEAR, the Tire Industry Association (TIA) continues to champion key legislative priorities in Washington, D.C., with a focus on bipartisan solutions. Tax reform, infrastructure funding, and Right to Repair have remained at the forefront of our advocacy efforts. By working closely with members of Congress, TIA is making strides to ensure that our industry’s voice is heard on Capitol Hill. Our engagement has been robust and multi-faceted, including industry lobby days, coalition meetings, and one-on-one discussions with legislators. TIA has maintained an active presence, participating in both formal hearings and roundtable discussions. Additionally, our involvement with the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC) has enabled us to address critical issues such as government funding, tax policy, and the impact of the upcoming elections on small businesses. CORPORATE TRANSPARENCY ACT (CTA) One of the critical issues on our agenda this year is the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). The CTA impacts 32.6 million entities, and TIA has advocated for delaying the year-end reporting deadline. We are backing Congressman Zach Nunn’s “Protect Small Businesses from Excessive Paperwork Act” (H.R. 9278), which seeks to extend the reporting deadline by one year. This is a bipartisan issue, and TIA is committed to engaging lawmakers through meetings and formal letters to ensure this extension is granted. FTC NON-COMPETE BAN In another significant development, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) introduced a rule to ban non-compete agreements for U.S. workers, with an original enforcement date of September
4, 2024. However, a Texas court ruling by Judge Ada Brown has delayed the rule’s implementation. TIA continues to monitor this evolving legal situation and will keep the industry updated as the proceedings unfold.
GLOBAL TIRE EXPO/SEMA SHOW NOV. 5-8 / Las Vegas Convention Center • Educational Sessions • Tuesday Booth Reception
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THE TIRE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (TIA)
• Meet TIA’s Training and Legislative Teams • Visit North America’s Largest Tire Exhibition
CONTINUES TO CHAMPION KEY LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES IN WASHINGTON, D.C., WITH A FOCUS ON BIPARTISAN SOLUTIONS.
• The Tire Industry Association (TIA) is a partner in the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, considered the premier automotive aftermarket conference in the world. • The Global Tire Expo – Powered by TIA is the tire and wheel segment of the SEMA Show. It’s the place where the global tire industry gathers each year. • The massive show annually draws more than 100,000 attendees . • Attendees come to see the latest and greatest products and services displayed by 1,800+ exhibitors taking up one million square feet of booth space.
Congratulations on becoming the 2024-2025 TIA President! We look forward to seeing what you accomplish during your term.
install all tires, regardless of whether they are listed in the CEC’s program. The Commission is proposing a leaf rating system for tires, with a list of approved products forthcoming. TIA will continue to update the industry as
A recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlighted how new vehicle technologies and telematics systems could limit consumer repair options, further underscoring the need for this legislation. TIA’s advocacy aims to protect consumer choice and ensure fair competition in the auto repair industry. As we look ahead to the incoming Congress, TIA remains committed to shaping the legislative agenda to reflect the needs and interests of our members. Our work will continue to focus on creating opportunities for the tire industry to thrive in the face of regulatory challenges and political shifts. For those interested in joining TIA’s advocacy efforts or learning more about our legislative initiatives, please feel free to contact me directly at rlittlefield2@ tireindustry.org. TTI
TRANSPORTATION FUNDING Transportation funding remains a priority for TIA, especially as discussions on the subject are set to ramp up in the next Congress. We recently attended a luncheon with Congressman Sam Graves, Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, where he underscored recent bipartisan successes and outlined upcoming policy initiatives. These efforts are vital to ensuring the future sustainability and growth of our
this program evolves. EXTENDED PRODUCER RESPONSIBILITY (EPR)
www.tireindustry.org
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In collaboration with the New England Service and Auto Association (NETSA), TIA has been keeping a close eye on the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program for tires. This initiative outlines different responsibilities for retailers, recyclers, and producers who participate in the program. We are committed to providing clarity and support to our members navigating this new regulatory landscape.
industry’s infrastructure needs. ESTATE TAX REPEAL EFFORTS
The repeal of the Estate Tax continues to be a major focus for TIA, particularly for our family-owned businesses. Next year, without Congressional action, exemption levels for the Estate Tax will
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