2026 TDOY Nominee

Steve Beck is one of a select group of 47 dealer nominees from across the country who will be honored at the 108th annual National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, on February 5, 2026. The TIME Dealer of the Year award is one of the automobile industry’s most prestigious honors, recognizing franchised new-car dealers who exhibit exceptional business performance and an outstanding commitment to community service. Beck was chosen to represent the South Dakota Auto Dealers Association in the national competition — one of only 47 auto dealers nominated for the 57th annual award from more than 20,000 nationwide.

“My father, Ken Beck, was my inspiration. He moved our family to Pierre and bought the dealership when I was just three — and growing up in that environment shaped who I am today, both personally and professionally,” said nominee Beck. 

Founded in 1969 by his father, Beck Motor Company has grown into a Chevrolet and Cadillac dealership that employs 51 staff members today. After graduating from Pierre Riggs High School and attending the University of South Dakota, Beck officially joined the family business in 1991 and completed the NADA Dealer Academy in 1998. He now co-owns the dealership with his brother, Trace Beck.

Building the dealership’s current 57,000-square-foot facility in 2012 marked a major turning point. 

“When my brother and I decided to build our new dealership, it was a massive risk. But we knew it was the right decision if we wanted to grow. We went from a 17,000-square-foot 1970s building to a modern facility on eight acres — and we haven’t looked back.”

Beck Motor Company has made numerous investments in employee well-being and innovation. These include a fully-equipped onsite gym with a sauna, and a dealership-owned cabin in the Black Hills that all employees can use to relax and recharge. Beck also covers 100% of employee healthcare costs. 

“Our team is family to us. We want them to feel valued — at work and in their personal lives. That kind of care builds loyalty you can’t manufacture,” he said.

Committed to staying ahead of industry trends, Beck has led the charge on electric vehicle readiness, installing six EV charging stations — including a Level 3 charger available to the public — and investing in EV-specific service tools like hoists and battery lifts. 

When the community faces hardship, Beck Motor Company shows up. During the devastating 90-day flood in 2011, the dealership provided meals and supplies to support neighbors while encouraging staff to volunteer. In another standout initiative, Beck launched a monthly “Amazing Teacher” program with the local newspaper to recognize educators.

“It’s the best goodwill we’ve ever built. Parents and students still thank us on the street. Teachers deserve to be celebrated.” 

Beck is all about making an impact in his business. 

“We’re all in on showing up — whether it’s for a family in crisis, a school program, or a new hire trying to build their career. Our culture is about showing up and doing the right thing,” he said. “When we hosted a benefit for twin girls battling leukemia, we expected to raise $5,000. We ended up raising over $21,000. That’s the power of community. Being named Family Business of the Year meant the world to me — but the real honor was having my parents, my wife and our children there by my side to accept it. That’s a full-circle moment I’ll never forget.” 

The dealership is also a major contributor to a long list of organizations, including Pierre Area United Way, Special Olympics, Feeding South Dakota and Missouri Shores Domestic Violence Center.

Beck was nominated for the TIME Dealer of the Year award by the South Dakota Auto Dealers Association. Beck and his wife, Jami Beck, live in Pierre and are the proud parents of Amanda Beck, Andrea Walters and Joseph Beck.