Taryn Thompson

Talent Acquisition Manager, Team Chevrolet

Native of Titusville, FL

Industry: Automotive

Taryn Thompson moved to Rowan County 14 years ago from Florida, where beaches are almost a backyard event, and she admits that life here was a bit of a culture shock, at first. She came here for work in the financial industry. 

“After a while, I understood what all the hype was about,” she says. “There may not be an ocean at my back door, but there are lake beaches, beautiful parks, breweries and wineries, delicious food choices, and a community culture. That’s not something you can find just anywhere; it’s a mixed bag that works in the most unique way.” 

The Rowan County slogan, Be an original™ speaks to that uniqueness. “It means that you have the freedom of opportunity,” Taryn says. “If you have an idea, whether it be to open a business or start a community event, there are resources here to help you make that dream a reality.”

She is fascinated with the history of the county. “I thought it was really neat that there is so much history here … filled with amazing stories from the past … neat little nuggets that happened here … like the courthouse extending from here to Tennessee.” She refers to the time when there were no North Carolina counties west of Rowan. 

Initially, she took a parttime job bartending “because I didn’t know anyone and figured that would be a great way to make some friends,” she says. “I quickly fell in love with the area and the people in it.” Now, she has a close-knit group of friends that she calls her family.

Involved with Community

Her work as Talent Acquisition Manager at Team Chevrolet keeps her involved with the community. “Coming to work keeps me engaged so that’s a pretty great bonus,” she says. “I also enjoy the different events throughout the year.

“The sense of community is phenomenal. There are so many people here that are willing to help their neighbor in a time of need. If there is a tragedy, everybody springs into action to make sure that the person in tragedy has a hand up to get out of that situation. It’s absolutely beautiful. I love the way people come together to support various causes and fundraisers and make this a better place.”

Taryn chooses Sidewalk Deli as her favorite lunch spot. “Rick (Anderson) and his staff are absolutely amazing, as is the food and atmosphere. It’s like stepping into a friend’s house. It’s welcoming and feels like home. You see everybody from downtown and catch up.”

For dinners out, she is a big fan of all downtown restaurants. 

The new Bell Tower Green Park is a favorite outdoor space, but as an outdoor person, she likes any space outdoors. She participates in the Kick Ball League in Salisbury, with proceeds from the tournament going to the Salisbury 49’ers, a youth football league.

Autumn Jubilee at Dan Nicholas Park is her favorite event. “I’m a huge fan, seeing different vendors and handmade crafts and finding treasures that you can’t find anywhere else.” 

For newcomers to the area, she would advise visiting New Serum Brewing. “The beer is great, and they do music trivia. There’s always an event going on. Even if you don’t drink, you can have a bottled Cheerwine. Hanging out is a lot of fun.” 

In general, she wants newcomers to know that “Rowan County is so much more. There is culture, community, history, and a lot of fun. Take the time to explore.”