Bridgestone's Mark Ferner Takes the Wheel at TIA's EV Council

Shift in Gear at TIA's EV Council: Mark Ferner Steps Up as Chair

In an exciting announcement for the tire industry, we learn that Mark Ferner from Bridgestone Retail Operations (BSRO) is set to take the reins as the new chair of the Tire Industry Association's (TIA) Electric Vehicle Advisory Council (EVAC). Ferner, who holds a senior management position in technical operations at BSRO, will assume his new role on August 1.

Ferner will be succeeding tire industry veteran, Ron Lautzenheiser, a Big O Tires and Grease Monkey franchisee and former TIA board member. Lautzenheiser, who has led the EVAC since its inception in June 2022, will continue contributing to the council as an active member.

As the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates, TIA's EVAC is playing a pivotal role in getting the tire industry ready for the new era. Richard Gust, TIA CEO, highlights Ferner's unique qualifications for the role. His hands-on experience as a former technician, his technical expertise, and his supportive role for service technicians at Bridgestone will prove invaluable in keeping the EVAC dynamic and productive.

Ferner currently oversees more than 11,000 technicians at over 2,200 BSRO retail service centers, including those servicing EVs. Boasting credentials such as an ASE Certified Master L1 and L3 technician and membership in the Society of Automotive Engineers, Ferner is undoubtedly equipped for the job.

TIA CEO Gust also took the opportunity to appreciate Lautzenheiser's efforts and enthusiasm in launching the EVAC and ensuring independent tire dealers have the necessary training and information on EV tires. Under his leadership, the council has made substantial progress and is set to release a range of recommended practices for servicing EV tires.

The EVAC, created by TIA in June 2022, has the crucial role of informing and training tire and auto dealers on best practices for EV service techniques and procedures, establishing potential safety protocols for working with EVs, and delivering guidelines for service and maintenance.

Excited about his new role, Ferner acknowledges the increasing trend of EVs entering service centers. He believes in a collective effort to effectively manage this transition, stating, "We all need to work together to help manage this change."

As Ferner takes the wheel at TIA's EV council, it signals a promising journey ahead for the tire industry in the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles. Buckle up for an electrifying ride!