Tyson Hollis, a proud alumnus of PVHS, has a journey marked by resilience, growth, and a deep commitment to his community. Reflecting on his high school days, Tyson fondly recalls the joy of watching others succeed. “Although I was involved in many clubs, teams, and programs, perhaps my fondest memories were watching others excel,” he shares. Encouraging his shy and introverted brother to participate in sports and activities, Tyson witnessed him flourish into a leader. His sister Nicky’s achievements in softball and her educational success remain sources of immense pride for Tyson.
Tyson’s career journey began under challenging circumstances. After graduating, he found himself homeless, with his belongings in the yard and his tuition money taken. An old blazer titled in his name became his new home, and he showered at a 24-hour fitness center. Despite these hardships, he found a lifeline through the Metzger family, who helped him secure a job at Martin Harris in Las Vegas. Over 17 years, Tyson worked his way up to a director position, transforming his life from homelessness to property ownership. A career shift brought him to the City of Henderson, offering a better quality of life and a renewed sense of purpose.
Tyson’s educational journey is also notable. He started at UNLV in 1998 but eventually completed his degree in 2014 online at Columbia Southern University, earning a BA in Occupational Safety. This non-traditional path reflects Tyson’s perseverance and commitment to personal growth.
Surprisingly, Tyson has built a 25-year career as a safety professional, a path he admits no one, including himself, would have predicted. “I’m not exactly a safe person,” Tyson says. “God, Fortune, Life offered me a path to literally get out of the trailer park, and I took it.” Despite his current profession not being “what he always wanted to do” it has allowed him to support his family and give them opportunities that he didn’t have as a child. “People who say they knew from six years old they were going to be a ‘whatever’ have my utmost respect. If I could get paid six figures to do something like be a park ranger or a stand up comedian, that would be my path. But…”
Throughout his career, Tyson has navigated significant challenges, including helping organizations through catastrophic events like building collapses, crane failures, and pandemics. Surviving the Great Recession and aiding a city during the pandemic are among his most notable accomplishments. “Starting from nothing and working to provide my kids with opportunities has been incredibly rewarding,” he says.
Tyson credits his career and personal development to an internal “executive board” of influential figures, including his grandfather, Frank Martin, Fire Chief Shawn White, Paul Toplak, and Monica Dennison. However, Craig Rieger stands out as the most significant influence. “Without his influence on the 15-year-old version of myself, I don’t want to think of who I would be,” Tyson admits. Rieger’s encouragement to never give up and always sprint when you have nothing left has been a guiding force in Tyson’s life.
Balancing professional and personal life remains a challenge for Tyson. “I’m late to most events, and my job has been very demanding,” he confesses. Yet, he cherishes time with his wife of 18 years, Ashley, and their children, Hazel (17), Huntley (14), and Tytan (12), spending weekends at their cabin, fishing, hunting, and making music together. Tyson’s interests extend to playing the piano, singing, and outdoor activities. He also aspires to spend more time supporting his children’s sports careers.
Tyson’s future career goals include senior leadership in government, but he envisions ending his career in a peaceful municipal position, reminiscent of Forest Gump cutting grass. Despite envying classmates who pursued dreams in stand-up comedy, Tyson prioritizes being dependable and providing opportunities for his children over chasing his dreams.
One of Tyson’s notable achievements is the creation of a wellness center for Henderson, aimed at reducing heart disease, cancer, and hearing loss among police and fire personnel. Looking ahead, he continues to focus on impactful projects that benefit his community.
Tyson’s involvement in community service reflects his dedication to giving back. His family volunteers for NDOW, supporting wildlife conservation. Additionally, he supports the American Cancer Society, driving cancer patients in memory of his mother, who passed away from breast cancer when he was eight.
While Tyson stays connected to PVHS mainly through friends and alumni events, he dreams of rallying alumni to place a giant “PV” on a hill, similar to other rural communities. He acknowledges the advantage of having a supportive family and resources, comparing life’s challenges to a foot race where some have a parachute and others do not.
As Tyson reflects on his journey, he acknowledges that time is the most valuable resource. “No amount of money can buy minutes of time,” he says, emphasizing the importance of making the most of every moment. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, the value of community, and the enduring impact of never giving up on oneself.
