By Ashley Reyes
The SEMA Wheel and Tire Council named Gary Ruede of Discount Tire as this week’s WTC spotlight volunteer. Reude is the product and quality management technologist at Discount Tire and a volunteer on the WTC select committee.
Ruede recently participated as both a speaker and an educator for various SEMA programs, including the WTC’s current webinar series, “Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, powered by WTC,” and “The STAGE, powered by WTC,” where he shared the five fundamental steps of tire application.
SEMA: What led you to obtaining a career in the wheel and tire industry?
Gary Ruede: I started working for Discount Tire when I was 17 and liked helping people.
SEMA: How has being a WTC volunteer or member impacted your professional career?
GR: It has helped me better understand the industry as a whole, not just a retailer.
SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the wheel and tire segment?
GR: Work on educating yourself on your product and its advantages and disadvantages.
SEMA: Where can we find you on a Saturday?
GR: You can find me bird hunting or target shooting.
Fill out a WTC spotlight application to share how you or your company are contributing to the wheel and tire segment of the automotive aftermarket. Selected candidates have the opportunity to be featured on SEMA eNews, social media, and WTC member updates.