Truck Centers Inc. announces leadership changes
Eric Pettigrew joins as VP Sales; Vice Chairman Michael F. Yates to retire at 2025 year-end
By Times-Tribune staff
Truck Centers Inc. recently announced the appointment of Eric Pettigrew as the company’s new Vice President of Sales.
This strategic move comes as part of TCI’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its leadership team and driving continued growth in the truck dealer industry.
In his new role, Pettigrew will lead the company’s overall sales strategy, oversee the sales team, and drive strategic initiatives to enhance TCI’s market position, reporting to Executive Vice President Justin Hopkins.
The appointment comes at an exciting time for TCI, as the company embraces a new era of leadership under its third-generation President and CEO Katie Hopkins.
“We are thrilled to welcome Eric into the TCI family,” Katie Hopkins said. “Eric’s extensive background and innovative approach to sales and financial services align perfectly with our vision for the future. His expertise and leadership, combined with the experience of our existing team, will be a dynamic force to propel the company forward, strengthen relationships, and cultivate new opportunities.”
Pettigrew, a commercial vehicle industry veteran with over 17 years of experience, brings valuable leadership and a shared customer-centric approach to TCI. His experience includes roles at Daimler Truck Financial and, most recently, at Houston-based Doggett Truck Group as Director of Financial Services.
Pettigrew succeeds TCI Vice Chairman Michael F. Yates, who announced his plan to retire effective Dec. 31, 2025, after an outstanding 48 years of dedicated service.
“I am honored to join Truck Centers, Inc. as the new Vice President of Sales,” Pettigrew said. “TCI’s customer-centric approach and reputation for excellence resonates strongly with my own professional values. I look forward to working with the team to build on the legacy of Mike’s contributions, while driving innovation and growth for the future.”
Yates’ retirement marks a pivotal moment for the company, as he has played a crucial role in shaping TCI’s growth and success. He joined TCI in 1977 as a body shop apprentice and held various leadership positions including general manager, executive vice president, president, vice chairman and minority owner.
In the coming months, Yates will work closely with Pettigrew and continue to assist with special projects in sales, customer service, and business operations to ensure a smooth transition.
Troy, Ill.-based Truck Centers, Inc. is a privately-owned heavy duty truck dealer network with 10 full-service locations and two satellite locations serving the St. Louis metro area, Illinois and Indiana. The company proudly represents Freightliner, Western Star, Ottawa, and Detroit performance products, providing a full array of services including truck sales, parts, service, collision repair and training. Truck Centers, Inc. was recognized nationally in 2024 as the American Truck Dealers (ATD) “Truck Dealer of the Year.”
