Fallon Wilber
Retail and commercial manager | Purcell Tire & Rubber Co. | Elko Nev. | Age: 31
What was your first job in the industry?
My first job was an office administrator at Global Mining Products in Elko, Nev, where I learned about the variety of equipment in the mining industry. I assisted local tire businesses by selling wheels, hardware and torque wrenches (RAD guns).
What attracted you to the industry?
I have a family member who has been in the business for over 30 years and he helped me get my first job in the industry. Growing up around the prominence of the mining industry in Elko, I have enjoyed serving my local community by providing the products and services that are essential for everyday life and our local economy.
What is the biggest challenge you've faced in your career?
Starting in the industry as a young female has its hurdles. It was difficult to have customers, coworkers and vendors not take me and my insights seriously. However, the tire community has fantastic veterans and newcomers who are willing to offer support and guidance when needed.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
My brother-in-law has had the biggest influence on my career as he took a chance to hire me as a college graduate with no experience in the field. He provided me with a good foundation to grow my first "real" job into a lifetime career.
What is your biggest accomplishment in the industry?
Having the opportunity to become a manager under age 30 and being a female in a leadership position in the tire and automotive service market.
Tell us about your current job and responsibilities. How do you spend your workday?
Connecting with and assisting customers in meeting their vehicle and tire needs. I provide guidance and insights to my crew. I stay up to date with current products, recalls, and changes in the industry. I try to make the job a fun and always safe location for employees and customers.
What's been the biggest surprise of your current job?
As a female, it is surprising how many female customers compliment that I have taught them something about their vehicle and the services provided at our location. I have been told multiple times that they have not been spoken to with a similar level of respect.
Tell us about your family.
My mom and stepdad have been together for over 15 years. My mom has her own business and my stepdad recently retired after over 50 years in the mining industry. My dad is a talented craftsman and is close to retiring as well. I am one of three redhead sisters — the gene runs strong in the family. My older sister manages a local business. My younger sister graduated with a bachelor’s in business this spring. Both of my brothers-in-law are in the tire industry. I also have two nephews and a niece that I absolutely adore. My oldest nephew is headed to Army boot camp and I couldn't be more proud of him. I love my whole family and the shenanigans we get into.
If you could wake up tomorrow with one new skill, what would you choose?
If I could wake up tomorrow with a new skill, it would be fluency in another language.
In a single word, how would your friends describe you?
Resolute.
If you could switch jobs for a day, what job/who would you choose to swap with, and why?
If I could swap roles for a day, I would choose Queen Elizabeth II, because of her decades of influence. She was a well-educated woman and inspiring to many around the world.
What's the biggest issue facing the tire industry?
The supply chain and inflation have become major issues and unfortunately it is difficult to meet every consumer's needs.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a flight attendant when I was young. My family traveled a lot and they left an impression on me with their kindness and opportunities to see new places.
What goal did you set for yourself this year? Are you on track to reach it?
A major goal I had this year was to reduce my candy intake and adopt healthier routines. I have quite the sweet tooth, but for the most part, am meeting this goal.
What do you expect to be doing 20 years from now?
I expect to be an influence on young females wanting to join the industry. I would like to leave an impact on a young woman just like the impact Juanita Purcell left on me when I started working for her and her husband's long-lasting tire company.
