The Safe Tread Alliance (STA) has added Alan Yarcusko, Bridgestone Americas Inc.'s chief risk officer and vice president, to its board of directors.

"Yarcusko brings more than three decades of experience in the automotive industry, making him a valuable addition to the organization’s leadership as it works to modernize tire safety standards in the United States," say STA officials.

"We are honored to welcome Alan to the Safe Tread Alliance," says Jamie Ward, STA co-founder and CEO of Cincinnati, Ohio-based Tire Discounters Inc., one of the largest tire dealerships in the U.S.

"Alan’s leadership role at Bridgestone and his active involvement with industry groups has put him at the forefront of tire policy, technical standards and transportation safety issues."

Yarcusko has held a variety of positions during his 25-year career with Bridgestone. He also serves on the boards of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association, the Tire & Rim Association and several non-profits.

STA is calling for a collaborative approach between industry leaders, government agencies and safety organizations to modernize tire performance standards "that reflect current vehicles, technology and real-world road conditions," according to STA officials.

"We are incredibly proud of how our board of directors is taking shape, bringing together some of the most respected voices from the tire, automotive, legal and public affairs communities," says Alex Bebiak, STA co-founder and president of the Road Ready Foundation. "Together we can help drive meaningful, life-saving change."

Others who have recently joined STA's board include former Bridgestone executive John Gamauf;  Lukas Kinigadner, co-founder of Anyline; Scott Blair, founder of Track Auto Training; and Kevin Goyak, executive vice president of the Vogue Tyre & Rubber Co., which is owned by Sailun Tire USA.

For more information, visit www.SafeTread.org or follow STA on social media: @SafeTreadAlliance.

Click here for a past MTD article about STA and its purpose.