Tara Loran
Q. What is your professional background? Where do you work, and what is/was your role there?
A. I work at Tnemec Company, based in North Kansas City. Tnemec (cement spelled backwards) specializes in manufacturing high-performance industrial and architectural coatings used on structures like water towers, wastewater treatment plants, schools, hospitals, and even stadiums. Our coatings play a critical role in protecting and preserving infrastructure across a wide range of industries. I have a degree in polymer chemistry, and I currently work as a Product Performance Manager. My role focuses on bridging the gap between research and production by helping chemists scale paint formulations from the lab bench to full commercial release. What I enjoy most is the variety—every day brings new challenges and opportunities to collaborate with different teams, which keeps the work exciting and rewarding.
Q. How it began: How long have you been off-roading? What drew you to the sport?
A. I’ve been passionate about Jeep Wranglers for years—I bought my first 4-door in 2013, though that wasn’t the start of off-roading. After trading it for a tow-capable vehicle, my husband surprised me in 2019 with a Jeep Moab edition. A couple of years later, I upgraded to a 392, but still hadn’t hit the trails. Finally, in July 2025, we added a second Jeep to the family, and in September I had my first true off-roading adventure at the K-Rocks 101 class. It was an incredible experience and the real beginning of my off-roading journey. What drew me to the sport? The rigs! I’m fascinated by the creativity and engineering that goes into building them and it amazes me what some of these rigs can tackle!
Q. Passions and Interests: What are your passions and interests related to the club’s activities? What motivated you to join the board?
A. I’m still fine-tuning my passions and interests, but I love the variety of activities the club offers—from a couple of hours at an ice cream social, to a half-day charity ride, to a full day trekking through the Flint Hills, and even a weekend of overlanding. The people and the adventures have been amazing so far, and I’m excited to keep exploring more! I joined the board because I saw it as a great opportunity to connect with more people and build stronger relationships within the Krawler community.
Q. Vision: What is your vision for the club’s future? How do you hope to contribute to its growth and success during your tenure on the board?
A. My vision for the club’s future is to maintain and grow a community that offers a wide range of opportunities to match the diverse interests and passions of our members. I plan to contribute by being actively involved—jumping in wherever needed and getting my hands dirty to help the club thrive.
Q. Community Involvement: Are you involved in any other community organizations or initiatives that align with the club’s values?
A. Is there any world beyond all things 4-wheelin’?
Just for Fun
Q. If you had a superpower for a day, what would it be, and how would you use it?
A. Instant Chef Mode – all I would have to do is snap my fingers and create a gourmet meal in seconds… no dishes, no stress, no mess!
Q. If you were a flavor of ice cream, what would you be and why?
A. Well, I had to consult the experts—Ben & Jerry—for this one! According to their “Which ice cream flavor am I?” quiz, I fall somewhere between Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (trustworthy and experienced) and Strawberry Cheesecake (people-focused and curious). A sweet mix of dependability and curiosity!
Q. If you were a fruit, what would you be?
A. I’d be a berry—because I’m berry grateful for good friends and sweet moments.