Vice President, Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment
General Manager, Silver State International
Type of Business: Full Service Heavy Duty Truck Dealerships
Based In: Sparks, NV
Hails From: Reno, NV
Years Company Has Been in Nevada: 76
Years with Company in Nevada: 26
Employees with Company: 135
What was your first job?
I worked a paper route at 7 years old. At the age of 18, I started at Peterbilt Truck Parts and Equipment as a parts runner.
Who in your life has been instrumental to your success?
Mainly my wife, Sage. There have been quite a few influential people I’ve worked for and with, as well as customers, who helped mentor me into the leader that I am.
What is an issue currently facing your industry an outside observer might not be aware of?
The trucking industry faces some major issues, that have affected people across the country. The trucking industry has a massive driver shortage. Increased government regulations on vehicles, plus hour regulations, are directly affecting every individual in the U.S. The direct effect can be seen at the grocery store. When you see the price of goods increase, often that is due to the substantial cost of transporting goods.
What would be the title of your autobiography?
American Dream; The Story of Success Through Old Fashioned Hard Work. The title might be long, but I think it would be a great read.
What three words would you want your worst enemy to use when describing you?
Lucky, aggressive and confident.
What was the toughest lesson you’ve learned in your career?
The toughest lesson I have learned throughout my career is that you don’t win them all.
What is your motto?
My professional motto is to take care of your people and the return can be endless. My personal motto is, and I got this from my teenage daughters years ago, YOLO – You Only Live Once!
What is your favorite thing about living in Nevada?
I love living in northern Nevada because I love the outdoor activities it affords. I am an avid hunter and sports fanatic. I enjoy golfing and being involved in my kids’ sports. One of the great things about northern Nevada is that still feels like a small community.