He began working for Tandy Leather in 1978[1] and managed multiple stores with the chain during his career.[4] In 1983, Linnell was recognized with the salesman's Victor Award by the Fort Worth Sales & Marketing Executives Association[5] for leading sales gains and profit improvements in the 275-store retail chain.
He went on to serve as the president of Joshua's Christian bookstores in 1990,[4][6] where he served for 7 years before they were purchased by Family Christian Stores. Linnell went on to pursue several entrepreneurial efforts, including founding Texas Wholesale Leather and helping build Hide Crafters Leather with George Hurst.[4][7] He returned to Tandy Leather as Director of Operations in 2002.[8] He later served as the National Advertising Manager[9] for the brand, before retiring in April 2017.[7]
During his tenure at Tandy Leather, Linnell dedicated much of his time to promoting leathercraft, having taught in 39 states, Europe, and England.[2] He also developed a 4-H leathercraft program in Puerto Rico in collaboration with their Department of Agriculture.[10] He also teaches a free annual class for youth at the Sheridan Leather show.[11][12]
In 2017, Linnell retired from Tandy Leather and started Elktracks Studio Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of leathercraft through teaching, both online and in workshops around the world.[7][13][3]
