BOWIE, Md. – The Tire Industry Association (TIA) announces the retirement of two esteemed members of its team, Roy Littlefield III, former CEO and current Government Affairs Consultant, and Dave Zielasko, former VP of Marketing and Communications and current Communications Consultant. After years of dedicated service and significant contributions to the Association and tire industry, Littlefield and Zielasko are stepping down from their roles.
Roy Littlefield III served as Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TIA from 2003 to 2021 and most recently as a government affairs consultant. During his tenure at the helm of TIA, the Association experienced sustained growth and expansion in membership and training. A distinguished figure in government affairs, Littlefield has played a pivotal role in advancing TIA's interests on the legislative front going back to his previous roles with the National Tire Dealers and Retreaders Association (NTDRA) and the International Tire & Rubber Association (ITRA). Littlefield's robust career includes four years of Capitol Hill experience and key roles in successful legislative initiatives, most notably voluntary tire registration. His legacy in Government Affairs and as EVP and CEO will be remembered for years to come.
Dave Zielasko has been an integral part of TIA, promoting tire safety and training with dedication and vision. Under his guidance, TIA has seen unprecedented growth in news coverage and has played a pivotal role in fostering connections within the tire industry. With nearly 35 years of experience in reporting on the tire industry and tire dealers, including roles at Tire Business, Crain Communications Inc., and serving as publisher of Rubber & Plastics News and European Rubber Journal, Zielasko leaves an enduring legacy in TIA marketing and communications.
TIA CEO, Richard “Dick” Gust says, “I have had the privilege of working alongside Roy and Dave for many years as they shared their expertise and dedication to the tire industry. Their collective efforts have not only ensured the industry's effective representation across various governmental levels but have also significantly elevated standards in tire safety and professionalism through strategic initiatives in training, marketing, and communication.”
As TIA bids farewell to these esteemed leaders, the association is excited to announce the transition of Maggie Blevins to the role of Marketing and Communications Manager. Blevins is well-equipped to lead TIA's marketing efforts into a new era. She will be the primary point of contact for all marketing and communications-related inquiries.
Additionally, TIA is pleased to announce that Roy Littlefield IV will be building on his family's legacy of tire industry advocacy as the Vice President of Government Affairs. Littlefield IV is poised to continue the impactful work of his predecessor, ensuring that TIA remains at the forefront of legislative initiatives affecting the tire industry.
Dick continues, “As we thank Dave and Roy for their past dedication, we look to the next generation of professionals as we welcome Maggie and Roy to continue that legacy moving TIA’s mission into the future.”
The tire industry owes gratitude to Roy Littlefield III and Dave Zielasko for their outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment. TIA is confident that their legacies will endure, and that the association will continue to thrive under the new leadership.