Behind every great service department is a leader who sets the tone. At Maritime Chevrolet, that person is Ralph Cascella! As our Service Manager, Ralph brings 38 years of automotive industry experience, an unmatched work ethic, and a genuine passion for the people he serves and everything he does. This month, we are proud to shine the spotlight on one of the most dedicated members of our team. A Career Built on Commitment Ralph grew up right here in Trumbull, Connecticut, and after graduating from Trumbull High School, he found his calling in the automotive business. Nearly four decades later, he has never looked back. For the past 20 years, Ralph has called Maritime Chevrolet home, and his dedication to this dealership is the kind that is simply impossible to manufacture. “I treat Maritime Chevy as my own business,” Ralph says. “I go above and beyond what I’m asked.” That is not just a phrase for Ralph. It is a way of operating. He is typically the first one through the door in the morning and the last one to leave at night. In one memorable example of just how far he will go, Ralph once spent the night at the dealership when the highway was closing so that he could get the driveway paved and have the doors open for customers the very next morning. That is the kind of dedication that defines a career. Ask Ralph about his proudest moment at Maritime Chevrolet and his answer is both honest and heartfelt. “Ten years ago, when the dealership changed ownership, they kept me on as their service manager.” For someone who pours as much of himself into his work as Ralph does, that kind of trust and recognition from ownership means everything. He is quick to share his gratitude as well. “I really enjoy my job at Maritime. Thank you to Eric and the Hodge family for all of their support.” That mutual respect between Ralph and the leadership team at Maritime Chevrolet is a big part of what makes our service department the well-run, customer-first operation that it is. When you ask Ralph what he loves most about the automotive industry, the answer has nothing to do with cars. “The relationships that I have built with customers and employees,” he says without hesitation. “And there is a new challenge every day.” After 38 years, that combination of connection and variety is what keeps Ralph as engaged and motivated as ever. Life Outside the Shop Those who know Ralph from his no-nonsense, get-it-done approach at the dealership might be surprised to learn about the softer side he keeps close to home. In the spring and summer, you will find him surf casting along the Connecticut shoreline or out trout fishing with his grandson, Chase. When fall and winter arrive, Ralph trades the water for his tree stand, spending quiet mornings in nature with his thoughts and a great view. And when it comes to what he truly cannot live without? That answer is simple and sincere: his time with his wife Leslie and his grandchildren. His dream car, fittingly for a man who has spent nearly four decades in the Chevrolet world, is a 1966 Chevelle SS 396. Classic, powerful, and timeless, just like Ralph himself. Twenty years of leadership, countless customers served, and a standard of excellence that runs through everything our service department does. We are incredibly grateful to have Ralph Cascella at the helm, and we hope this spotlight gives our customers a chance to appreciate the person who works so hard every day to make sure their experience at Maritime Chevrolet is a great one. Next time you bring your vehicle in for service, take a moment to say hello to Ralph. We have a feeling you will be glad you did!
