local high school football stadium is now known as Whitson Morgan Stadium. We also helped with a new gym floor for the basketball team. Our efforts go into the school side as well. I dedicate my time to visiting classrooms and talking to the students in business classes. We sponsor a lot of events as well. What are the biggest challenges in the industry? Managing the complexities and the costs that are associated as the industry has started to transition toward the EV side of the market has been challenging. It’s very complex. There are many things to consider when deciding whether to be in the EV business or not. The technology in the EV segment changes rapidly, and it has been difficult to manage as it becomes outdated very quickly. In my opinion, there is not enough skilled labor, especially in the technician segment. We struggle to find factory-trained technicians. There is a tremendous amount of demand for their skills, and they can bounce around and go to the other stores, which is hard. The economic and political side of things with tariffs and so forth have caused some supply chain issues. Because the disruption is caused by outside forces, we can’t necessarily control it; that’s been difficult. What inspired you to take on the role of chairman? Early in my career, after the NADA Dealer Academy, I started attending 20 Groups. I recall listening to some of my fellow dealers discuss legislative issues. Hearing how they were able to get involved with their state association and make some real changes that benefited not only them, but the industry in their state. I could see how it was working for them and decided that with a little more time under my belt and some confidence, I would be able to make a difference as well. A little over 10 years ago, I was in my 20 Group with fellow Ford dealer, Kenne Ketcheside. Kenne happened to be on the board of AADA, and I let him know that if a position ever became available, I would like to get involved with the association. The very next year, he nominated me. I received a call from then-AADA president Dennis Jungmeyer and have been involved with AADA ever since. What goals do you have as chairman, and what can members do to help you reach them? Similar to my friend and past-chairman, Jay Dooley, I see a need to get more dealers more actively involved in the association. I believe we have 100% membership in our state, but very few members are engaged and participating. Continuing to hold grassroots meetings throughout the state is a great way to re-engage with members and will be a priority. Our industry is always going to have issues, whether they be with a manufacturer or a legislative issue. Having a collective dealer network is the most effective way to address these types of issues. There is strength in numbers. We also need more members to attend the convention. Greg and the AADA staff are fantastic when it comes to getting a lineup of very good speakers. You will learn something new, grow your network and have fun. It’s definitely worth your time. What is your favorite way to spend your free time? Do you have any hobbies? My favorite ways to spend free time are driving through the mountains on my motorcycle or in one of my classic hot rods, and spending time at Hot Springs lakes. Driving back and forth between where I live and the Hot Springs, you cross through the mountains, so I get to experience both things at the same time. Any last thoughts? I want to encourage everybody to make an effort to attend local grassroots meetings and the convention. If you haven’t been in a while, I think you’ll find it well worth your time. If you can’t make it, please consider sending somebody from one of your stores. Your involvement and your voice are welcomed and needed. 10 Arkansas Auto Dealer
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