With a last name like Carr, a professional journey in the automotive industry just seems to make perfect sense, doesn't it?

And there's more to it than the name. For Greg Carr, the decision to pursue this particular career path also aligns with his genuine desire to work with people - along with his love for working on cars, which was first inspired by his dad. (As it turns out, he's not the only Carr in the car business….a love for vehicles is actually all in the family!)

We caught up with Greg to learn more. 

Greg, tell us more about your upbringing. I grew up locally - in Pleasant Valley. After graduating from Arlington, I went to SUNY Oneonta, where I obtained my Bachelor's in Biology and Ecology in 2005. 

At what point did you decide to go into the automotive industry?
I worked in hospitality after I college, and then switched to car sales. I love people and working in sales allowed me to spend more time with 1customers and meeting all kinds of individuals. I did auto sales for a few years, and then got into parts before shifting over to service.

How did you land at Ruge's?
I responded to a job opening that they posted; I had heard great things about the company, how it is a family-owned business and that they treat everyone really well - and that is absolutely the case! It's a great place to work and I am really enjoying it here.

What is it like to build your life in your hometown region?
It feels good! I got away for a while to Oneonta, where I ended up living for about 10 years. Then returned to raise our family. My wife Elizabeth and I have two kids - a 14-year-old son named Thomas and 12-year-old daughter, Helen...it's really nice to be back in the community where I grew up and to raise them here in Dutchess County. They go to Arlington schools just as I did, which is pretty cool.

What do you do on a daily basis at Ruge's?
I help people out with service appointments, answer phones, and talk to techs about customer vehicle concerns or issues. I also do a lot of work with warranty companies...so I get to talk to and work with all sorts of people every day, which makes this role a great fit for me.

What was the first car you owned, and did you work on it yourself?
1975 Mercedes 300D - and yes, I worked on it myself. My father was a master mechanic and showed me how to work on cars, so that's really how it all started for me! Everyone in the family seems to be in the auto business - so yes, I guess it is in the name...!

Do you have any advice for a young person starting out in the field?
Ask lots of questions and take any advice you get! Oh, and try to stay flexible and manage your stress. I manage mine with classic rock music and hiking....we all need something that helps us decompress.

What do you most enjoy about the Hudson Valley?
The hiking is amazing here - the scenery is beautiful and I love the mountains - especially the Shawangunk/Mohonk area. We also go out to Connecticut for hikes sometimes; there's so much to choose from within a short distance, so we're really lucky to live in a place like this.

If you could take a road trip anywhere, where would you go and what vehicle would you choose for the journey?
I'd like to go to Colorado. I've been before but would love to head out there again. And I’d take a Jeep Wrangler!

Reach out to Greg Carr anytime by calling
845.876.1057 or emailing: gcarr@rugesauto.com