Russ Devens Sworn In as Tire Industry Association President at SEMA Show in Las Vegas

Russ Devens, Director of Safety & Risk Management at McCarthy Tire Service, will be sworn in today as President of the Tire Industry Association (TIA) during the association’s annual meeting at the 2025 SEMA Show. The ceremony marks a historic milestone for both Devens and McCarthy Tire Service, the nation’s 4th largest independent commercial tire dealer.

For the past 11 years, Devens has led safety and risk management initiatives across McCarthy Tire Service’s expansive network of more than 75 commercial tire centers and 13 retread manufacturing plants spanning eight states from New York to South Carolina. His comprehensive approach to workplace safety, regulatory compliance, and employee training has not only elevated operational standards at McCarthy but has also positioned the company as a benchmark for safety excellence within the tire industry.

A 1999 graduate of King’s College with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, Devens brings a unique blend of legal insight, risk assessment expertise, and hands-on industry experience to the TIA presidency. Since joining the TIA Board of Directors in 2017, he has been a driving force behind the association’s educational initiatives. As Chair of the TIA Training and Education Committee for the past six years, Devens spearheaded the development of advanced certification programs, expanded online training modules, and strengthened partnerships with technical colleges to address the industry’s growing need for skilled technicians.

“Russ Devens is uniquely qualified to lead TIA into its next chapter,” said John McCarthy III, Southern Region President of McCarthy Tire Service. “His proven track record in managing complex safety protocols across a multi-state operation, combined with his deep commitment to workforce development, makes him the ideal president at a pivotal time for our industry. Russ understands that safety isn’t just compliance—it’s culture. And education isn’t just certification—it’s empowerment. As McCarthy Tire Service prepares to celebrate our 100th anniversary in 2026, we are immensely proud to see Russ representing our values on a national stage.”

Under Devens’ leadership, TIA is poised to advance several strategic priorities, including:

• Expanding Technician Training Programs: Launching new hybrid learning platforms and regional training hubs to close the skills gap and attract the next generation of tire professionals.
• Strengthening Safety Standards: Collaborating with OSHA and industry partners to develop updated guidelines for retread plant operations and commercial tire service environments.
• Advocating for Sustainable Practices: Promoting retreading as a cornerstone of circular economy initiatives and pushing for federal recognition of retreads in infrastructure and fleet procurement policies.
• Enhancing Member Resources: Introducing data-driven risk management tools and predictive analytics platforms to help TIA members reduce incidents and lower insurance costs.

Founded in 1926, McCarthy Tire Service remains a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated company committed to innovation, integrity, and industry leadership. As the company approaches its centennial celebration in 2026, Devens’ presidency underscores McCarthy’s enduring influence in shaping the future of commercial tire service and manufacturing.