Mizutani, Joines, Others Named to Hall of Fame
Tomo Mizutani, former chairman and CEO of Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc., and Mike Joines, CEO of Tire Rack, are among the new inductees into the Tire Industry Hall of Fame.
“Our 2025 inductees embody the spirit of innovation and service that defines the tire industry,” says Dick Gust, CEO of the Tire Industry Association (TIA). "Their contributions have improved safety, expanded opportunity and shaped the way we do business worldwide.”
Mizutani, also a former chairman and CEO of Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas Inc., "has devoted more than 33 years to the U.S. replacement tire industry, leaving a profound and enduring impact. Under his leadership, Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc. grew from near bankruptcy to nearly $1 billion in annual revenue," according to TIA officials.
"Through innovative marketing strategies and enthusiast-driven product development, Tomo redefined how consumers connect with tire brands, elevating Nitto into a household name with over 13 million social media followers. He was also instrumental in advancing gender equity at Nitto, culminating in the historic appointment of the tire industry’s first female CEO.
"His contributions have been recognized beyond the industry, with honors such as the International Citizen Award from the Japan America Society and the Outstanding Leadership Award from U.S. Representative John Campbell. Tomo also shared his expertise through speaking engagements at major universities and industry events, shaping both the tire industry and the broader business community."
Other inductees include Tom Klinge, co-founder of Klinge Group of Companies, and Peggy Fisher, former president, TireStamp U.S. operations.
"Tom Klinge is a globally respected pioneer in the OTR tire industry, admired for both his technical innovations and lifelong dedication to safety," say TIA officials. "As co-founder and managing director of the Klinge Group of Companies, president of the Australian Tyre Dealers & Retread Association and a longtime supporter of TIA, Tom advanced tire service standards worldwide."
During her career, Fisher, who served as TIA's president in 2007, "created comprehensive tire and wheel maintenance programs and training that significantly improved fleet safety and technician training. Her leadership extended through her work with the Technology & Maintenance Council, where she co-developed the Radial Tire Conditions Analysis Guide."
TIA also has awarded its Friend of the Industry honor to Maryland Delegate Kevin Hornberger, "a key champion in helping launch Maryland’s Rubber Modified Asphalt project, a groundbreaking initiative that incorporates recycled scrap tires into pavement," say TIA officials.
"The Friend of the Industry Award recognizes well-known individuals who are allies and proven supporters of the tire industry."
Honorees will be "acknowledged during the 2025 Global Tire Expo-Powered by TIA, held in conjunction with the SEMA Show, Nov. 4–7, in Las Vegas, Nev."