On the Rise: Scott Estes
Scott Estes
Regional operations manager | McCarthy Tire Service Co. Inc. | Huntersville, N.C. | Age: 38
What was your first job in the industry?
Front counter commercial sales.
What attracted you to the industry?
I was attracted to the commercial tire industry because it's a critical part of keeping transportation and logistics running smoothly. Nearly every sector of the economy depends on commercial vehicles, and tires are at the core of that reliability and safety. I’m drawn to the combination of hands-on technical work, problem-solving, and the opportunity to directly impact customer uptime and safety.
What is the biggest challenge you've faced in your career?
Managing through COVID-19 as a key provider and essential personnel for critical services such as waste haulers, UPS, Amazon, fire departments and similar organizations was incredibly challenging, both logistically and emotionally. We were operating under intense pressure to maintain continuity of service while navigating constantly changing safety protocols, supply chain disruptions and workforce limitations.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
My former regional operations manager, Garey Thomas.
What is your biggest accomplishment in the industry?
Successfully completed the acquisition of two major players in the commercial tire industry, GCR Tires and Piedmont Truck Tires, significantly expanding our market footprint, customer base and service capabilities across key regions. This strategic move strengthens our position as a leading provider in the commercial tire and fleet services sector, enhances our national distribution network, and drives long-term growth through increased scale, operational efficiency and brand recognition.
Tell us about your current job and responsibilities. How do you spend your workday?
I currently have full operational control over 14 McCarthy Tire locations. Most days are spent on the fundamentals of safety, financial performance, inventory management, staffing, fleet management and sales/service growth.
Tell us about your family.
I’ve been married for 10 years to Brittany Estes. I have a 4-year-old daughter named Carson and another girl due in November 2025.
What is the most essential professional skill for someone in your job?
Being able to compartmentalize tasks and assignments. This business can throw plenty of curve balls and things move fast. So being able to break every situation down will reduce becoming overwhelmed, improve focus and increase productivity.
What song takes you back to high school? (Include the artist)
Yellowcard’s “Ocean Avenue”.
If you could start a new career tomorrow, what would you do?
Sports agent.
Do you live by inbox zero, or inbox disaster?
Inbox zero.
In the next 10 years, what will be the biggest change in the tire industry?
More dealer and customer consolidation along with a big push for technology improvements including tire tracking, asset management and billing portals.
What moment in life would you like to live over again?
My wedding day.
What hobby or activity helps you unwind?
Time with family, golf and working in the yard.
If it was your job to persuade new people to join the tire industry, what would be your best selling point?
There’s career and compensation growth no matter your educational background or experience. Keep hustling and stay focused — it will always pay off in this industry.
What's one thing you would change about yourself?
If I could change one thing about myself, it would be my tendency to be a perfectionist. While it pushes me to produce high-quality work, it can sometimes slow me down or make it harder to delegate tasks. I’ve been working on balancing high standards with efficiency and trusting others more with responsibilities
Pick a celebrity and explain why you think he/she would be a great tire dealer.
Mike Rowe from Dirty Jobs.