Operating since 1926, Stavinoha Tireshop and Hardware Store has been offering its services to the residences of Fairchilds and surrounding communities. Sammy Stavinoha, a student in the Dianne and M. Edward Rister ’74 Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program, hopes to not only continue his family's business but create his own lasting legacy.

Coming into Texas A&M, Sammy knew little about the Agribusiness Entrepreneurship program. He says that after watching his roommate complete the program his sophomore year, he knew he wanted to get involved. Now, four years later, Sammy plans to graduate in May with a degree in Agricultural Economics and a minor in Rural Entrepreneurship. He believes that the Rister '74 Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program is important because the classes emphasize exploring all aspects of opening a business.  

Sammy chose to study his family's tire shop because he plans to eventually take over the business from his father. He will be the fourth generation to run the shop, a business where he has helped since he was in middle school. The shop offers a wide variety of tires, from dolly tires to tires for large machinery. In addition to the shop, Sammy’s dad has added a hardware store that offers a range of products.

As he developed his AGEC 425 business plan, Sammy has been able to use real numbers and statements from the shop, which he feels has been beneficial in understanding the family business better. This approach has also given him a more hands-on experience with the business. With each generation, the business has changed and evolved. While Sammy is currently unsure how he plans to add his own touch, he is excited to help the business continue to grow.

The biggest challenge Sammy has had to face this semester has been taking on the time commitment that comes with AGEC 425. He says that in addition to the rigorous commitment the class itself requires, he also has had to face the challenges that come with working for a small business. His father recently injured himself and with only one other employee working, Sammy has had to take on more responsibility. While this has been challenging, he says this program has opened his eyes to see a new perspective of his dad. Sammy says he now understands how much work his dad has put into this business.

Throughout the past two semesters, Sammy has learned the importance of exploring all possibilities and looking at long-run risks when making decisions. He says that he now understands that it is not bad to be somewhat risk averse. It is important to make the most educated decision he can. Sammy will be competing in the 2024 Texas Farm Credit Symposium at the end of April. He plans to join his dad in the shop after graduation.