Sean, tell us about your upbringing.

I grew up in Hopewell Junction. I went to Arlington High School and graduated in 2010. My father has been a mechanic for 30-plus years, so I have been around cars my entire life.

When did you first discover your passion for vehicles?

Watching my Dad definitely influenced me; I thought it was very cool. And my brother and sister used to race, so I would help work on their car. It was fun, but a lot of work too - I was probably about 13 or so. But it definitely gave me great experience; we took an entire car apart and turned it into a race car. Our family worked on it together, and I learned so much, including welding.

What inspired you to pursue this career path?

I have a 3-year-old daughter - so when she was born I realized I wanted a path that would give me the kind of career opportunities I needed while working for a business that values family too. I found Ruge’s through my brother-in-law and started working here within a few months after my little girl was born. It’s been a great fit for me.

What was the training like for you?

I started at an Annex location, and learned on the job, mostly by writing up reports. Everyone was very helpful and it doesn’t take long when you’re interested in the subject!

What is your day-to-day like as Service Advisor at Ruge’s?

I spend a lot of my time talking to customers. We discuss what concerns they have and what the problems need to get addressed. I’m the middle man between customers and our technicians. I advise them what they should be doing to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape. The customers are really great, and over time I’m learning their names and building relationships with them.

What do you most love about working at Ruge's?

It’s just a really great work environment - a very positive place to be. Everyone gets along so well and we work together as a team.

How do you spend your free time? 

Mostly, I love spending it with my family. I also enjoy video games, and soccer and cars!

If you could take a road trip anywhere, where would you go, what vehicle would you drive, and what music would play on your radio? 

I’d like to go to Yellowstone National Park - it’s supposed to be beautiful. I’d take the Subaru Outback Wilderness. It's a fun, solid vehicle, perfect for off-roading and it has a turbo. As far as music, I listen to everything - so I’d make a playlist complete with metal, country, rock - I’d throw it all on there!

Be sure to say hello to Sean Bryson at your next service appointment, or email him at: sbryson@rugesauto.com.