If you went to the Lucky 11 Car Wash in Dunkirk, N.Y., when Ralph Nasca was just 14 years old and saw him towel-drying cars, you might not have guessed he would eventually become manager of the top-notch car wash equipment repair and service company, Pro-Tech Service Company, LLC, in Lewisville, Texas. But, if you were witness to his drive, it would seem like a natural progression. This drive carried him into a manager role at the car wash, where he would put in 12-hour days — all while still in high school.

In 1976, Nasca moved to Dallas, Texas, and was employed by Johnson Controls, Inc. While working in their systems engineering and construction division he met his future business partner, Mike Melton. They owned a full service car wash for six years and also formed Pro-Tech Service Company in 1984 — and ever since have been involved in the building, remodeling and development of the professional car wash business. Thirty-six years later, they have built and remodeled over 300 conveyorized car washes.

Q: Tell me about your path into the car wash industry.

I started when I was 14 years old towel-drying cars. I worked my way up to weekend manager while going to high school.

Q: What does a day look like for you?

Some of my days are planned but most of my days have surprises and challenges that I find invigorating.

Q: What keeps you coming back every day?

The challenges, the great group of people I get to work with and the customers. I consider myself extremely blessed to be able to work at something I truly love. The thing I love most about what I do is helping people realize their dreams of owning their own professional car wash. I still love going to the field and training on the operations of the facilities.

Q: What do you think car wash professionals need to be watching out for and paying attention to right now?

The lack of talented people to assist them in their challenges to support the customer needs.

Q: What has been your biggest learning from the car wash industry?

Don’t over-promise and under-deliver. We pride ourselves on delivering the highest level of service in our profession.

Q: What trends or potential trends are you watching in the industry?

The consolidation effort in every facet of professional car washing.

Q: What are you most excited about that ICA is working on?

Sharing and gaining information.

Q: What do you do when you’re not ‘on the clock’? What do you do to refill your tank?

I’m an avid movie watcher and a foodie. I also enjoy traveling.

Q: Tell us something we’d be surprised to learn about you.

I am completely fascinated by the UFO phenomenon.

Q: Anything else you’d like to share?

I absolutely love the car wash business and the people that are in it. I find it a very challenging and rewarding business.