06/10/2026
“I started working for Purcell in April of 1997, and my first job was in the OTR Retread “Buzz Out” station.
I worked in the Retread Plant for a total of 9 years, but I started attending College classes for Finance towards the end of that time frame.
One day I was working on a Tire Repair, and I felt a tap on my shoulder, and as I turned around, I noticed it was Juanita Purcell. She said to me, “I heard you just graduated with a College Degree in Finance.” When I acknowledged that I had, she told me to follow her to her Office. I remember being covered in rubber dust walking to her Office, and just as nervous as can be.
She told me, “I have an opening in our Accounting Department, and I want you to take it.” I was a little caught off guard but immediately responded with a Yes. She said,” It’s going to take me a couple of weeks to get this all sorted out, but I am going to make it happen.”
True to her word, I transitioned from the Retread Plant to the Accounting Department in just a few short weeks, and the rest is History.
Bob and Juanita were always so Proud to tell the story of my start in the Plant and how I was able to expand my Career with Purcell. They were my biggest supporters as I went back to College to earn a second bachelor’s degree, and as I studied for the CPA Exam. Never would I have imagined that I would end up the CFO of Purcell Tire the day I started in “Buzz Out” back in April of 1997. I am forever grateful for the faith they have shown in me and the opportunities they have given me over the years.”
- CFO : Chris Miller (Story 18 of 90)
