Richard “Dick” Gust is a seasoned executive with decades of experience in the Tire and Rubber Industry. Holding a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and mathematics, Dick began his career as a tire design engineer with Uniroyal Tire Company (now Michelin), where he advanced into leadership roles across tire production, quality control, product development, and product testing.
He later joined Sears as a tire engineering liaison, bridging the gap between Sears’ procurement team and its global network of tire suppliers. In this role, Dick collaborated with manufacturing and testing facilities across the United States, Europe, Japan, Taiwan, and Korea, gaining international experience and deepening his industry expertise.
Dick went on to serve as President of Lakin Environmental Industries, where he oversaw operations related to tire retreading, remanufacturing, scrap tire collection, and processing. After Liberty Tire Recycling acquired Lakin in 2008, he continued with the company as President of National Account Sales and Director of Government Affairs. During this time, he became widely recognized as an expert in scrap tire management, end-product development, and environmental sustainability.
A longtime leader within the Tire Industry Association (TIA), Dick served on its Board of Directors for many years and was elected TIA President in 2005. In 2021, he returned to TIA as Chief Executive Officer, where he continues to lead the association’s efforts in advocacy, education, and member engagement.
Throughout his career, Dick has been a sought-after speaker and advisor, regularly presenting to State Tire Dealer Associations, trade groups, and government agencies. He has contributed insights to organizations including the EPA, DOT, Department of Defense, U.S. Postal Service, and several state legislatures and universities. His speaking engagements have included the Clemson University Tire Conference, Colorado Environmental Tire Conference, California Recycling Conference, and the White House Environmental Commission.
In recognition of his expertise, Dick was appointed by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to serve on the Environmental Technologies Trade Advisory Committee (ETTAC) for the 2023–2024 charter.
His numerous accolades include the Industry Leadership Award, the Governor’s Corporate Recycling Award from the State of Illinois, and induction into the Tire Industry Hall of Fame in 2016—one of the highest honors in the industry.