Auto Repair Backed by Integrity Since 2009

Owner

A proud Houston native, Pat DePugh has been a trusted name in the automotive repair industry for more than 30 years. His career began humbly in The Woodlands, where he started repairing car air conditioners out of his own garage. What began as a small side hustle quickly grew into a lifelong passion, culminating in the launch of his first shop, Absolutely Cool Automotive Air Conditioning, in 1995. Over the following twelve years, Pat and his team rebuilt and restored an astonishing 18,000–20,000 car air conditioning systems, earning a reputation for quality, expertise, and integrity. 

With Rusty’s Garage, Pat expanded his vision, building a full-service repair shop rooted in honesty, craftsmanship, and customer care. From intricate diagnostics to diesel engines and advanced air conditioning systems, Pat approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and precision. Yet, beyond the technical side of the work, his greatest commitment has always been to people. He believes that genuine relationships—built on trust and respect—are the foundation of a successful business. 

While Pat may not turn wrenches as often as he once did, his leadership and involvement remain central to Rusty’s Garage. His sharp eye for detail, dedication to high standards, and hands-on guidance ensure that every customer receives the exceptional service the shop is known for. Under Pat’s direction, Rusty’s Garage continues to thrive as a place where expertise meets care, and where customers feel like family. 

General Manager

As General Manager of Rusty’s Garage since December 2021, Paul Hartley is dedicated to making every customer feel cared for and confident about the service they receive. With more than 16 years of automotive experience and graduation from the Elite Automotive Masters program in 2018, Paul brings both expertise and passion to his role. He values transparency, education, and lasting relationships, and is proud of the strong team he and Pat have built together. His long-term goal is to one day own Rusty’s Garage, ensuring its continued growth and the happiness of its customers.  

Paul grew up in Huntsville, Texas, and now lives in Friendswood with his wife, Ashley, and their two boys. Married since 2011, Ashley works as a travel agent, and together they share a love of exploring new places. At home, Paul’s greatest joy is family life. His oldest son is on the autism spectrum, which has given him a deep sense of patience, empathy, and perspective. Weekends are often spent coaching baseball, traveling, and staying active together as a family 

Service Advisor

Keith Heflin is an enthusiastic Service Advisor at Rusty’s Garage, bringing nearly 23 years of experience in the automotive industry. His career began in 2003 at his family’s repair shop, where he learned early on the importance of treating every customer like family. Since then, Keith has dedicated himself to creating smooth, reliable service experiences that turn first-time visitors into loyal customers. 

A lifelong Montgomery County resident and proud Texan, Keith shares life with his wife and their energetic two-year-old daughter, who keep him motivated and grounded. Outside the shop, he enjoys an active lifestyle—snowboarding in Colorado, competing on the disc golf course, and spending time on Lake Conroe enjoying water sports. 

Keith’s daily commute is powered by comedy and thought-provoking podcasts, fueling both his sense of humor and his curiosity. At Rusty’s Garage, his expertise and approachable personality ensure every customer leaves with confidence, trust, and a reason to return. 

Service Advisor

Tanner Thomas brings six years of combined experience as both a technician and service advisor, making him a valuable addition to the Rusty’s Garage team. A Montgomery native and graduate of Montgomery High School, Tanner’s early involvement in Marching Band, Jazz Band, and the Bowling Team showcased the work ethic and team spirit that continue to define him today. 

His passion for the automotive industry began right after high school and quickly developed into a career rooted in continuous learning and excellence. Specializing in advanced areas such as Vehicle ADAS Systems and programming, Tanner pairs his technical expertise with a deep understanding of customer care. He is also a graduate of the Elite Masters Service Advisor Course, further demonstrating his commitment to professional growth and top-tier service. 

In June 2024, Tanner married his loving wife, beginning an exciting new chapter in life together. Away from the shop, he enjoys time with her and their five pets, reflecting his warm and compassionate nature. His journey from the garage floor to the service counter is a testament to both his drive and the supportive culture at Rusty’s Garage. Today, Tanner blends technical knowledge with genuine care, ensuring every visit feels less like a transaction and more like a trusted experience. 

Master Technician

Scott FitzGerald is an accomplished Automotive Specialist, Precision Technician, and Customer-First Leader with a career spanning over 15 years. He began his journey in 2008 at Shelby Automotive in Las Vegas, gaining hands-on experience with high-performance vehicles before joining Firestone Automotive during their expansion into the Las Vegas market. There, he played a key role in launching multiple locations, including the Nellis Air Force Base site, while building his expertise in team training, operations, and leadership. 

Known for his skill in complex and custom alignment work, Scott earned a reputation as the local go-to for precision setups. This reputation led him to Exotics Racing, where he maintained and aligned an elite fleet of Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Aston Martins, Porsches, and Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The experience deepened his appreciation for precision, patience, and engineering excellence. 

In 2020, Scott was recruited by a mobile automotive repair startup, quickly becoming the company’s Brand Ambassador and top technician. His role extended beyond the shop floor, as he represented the team in a televised campaign while mentoring technicians across the region. Later, as Houston Regional Manager, he oversaw technician development, operations, and customer service. 

Ultimately, Scott sought a workplace where customer care outweighed profit margins—leading him to Rusty’s Garage. There, he found a team whose transparency, honesty, and customer-first philosophy align perfectly with his own values. 

Master Technician

Anthony Thomas Jr. is a dedicated and highly skilled ASE Certified Mechanic with a strong reputation for precision, integrity, and dependable service. With over 12 years of hands-on experience in automotive diagnostics, repair, and maintenance, Anthony specializes in identifying complex mechanical issues and delivering efficient, long-lasting solutions.

Holding Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications, he demonstrates a commitment to industry standards and continued professional development. His expertise spans engine performance, brake systems, suspension, electrical diagnostics, HVAC, and preventative maintenance. Anthony approaches every vehicle with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring safety, reliability, and optimal performance for each client.

Anthony spent his childhood growing up in the small town of Ames,Tx and now calls Willis his home where he and his wife Kyasia live with their two boys. Know for his honesty and clear communication, Anthony takes pride in educating customers about their vehicles while providing trustworthy recommendations. His goal is not just to repair cars, but to build lasting relationships rooted in quality workmanship and customer confidence.

ASE Certified Automotive Technician

Raelynn Mustard graduated from Klein Collins High School in May 2025 after completing two years in the school’s Advanced Automotive Technology program. After beginning college courses in Automotive Technology, she realized her passion was best pursued through real-world, hands-on experience rather than additional classroom instruction. She is committed to continuing to grow her skills in a shop environment where she can learn from experienced technicians and take on new challenges.

Raelynn’s interest in working on vehicles began in childhood and has grown into a strong dedication to the automotive trade. She brings enthusiasm, determination, and a strong work ethic to everything she does, along with a constant desire to learn and improve.

Holding six ASE certifications, Raelynn has demonstrated strong technical knowledge and industry-recognized competency. Her certifications help support accurate diagnostics, high repair standards, and increased customer confidence in the work performed at Rusty’s Garage.

At Rusty’s Garage, Raelynn looks forward to continuing to develop her craft while contributing to the team and helping provide dependable service to customers. She is proud to be part of a workplace where teamwork, support, and shared commitment make the shop feel like family.

Automotive Technician

Xavier Esparza graduated from Spring High School in 2014. After graduation, he gained experience in several hands-on roles, including forklift operation, general labor, and loading and unloading trucks before ultimately finding his place in the automotive industry.

From an early age, Xavier had a passion for fixing and repairing anything he could get his hands on. He grew up believing that most things can be repaired with the right approach, patience, and tools. 

Working in the automotive industry has reinforced that belief while also allowing him to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives—especially when customers are facing stressful situations with their vehicles.

One of the most rewarding parts of the job for Xavier is seeing the relief and appreciation from customers once their vehicle issues are resolved. Helping people get safely back on the road and restoring their confidence in their vehicle is something he takes great pride in.

Working at Rusty’s Garage has helped Xavier grow tremendously as both a professional and as a person. The experience has strengthened his commitment to his craft while motivating him to continue developing his skills. He brings a strong work ethic, dedication to learning, and a fresh perspective to the automotive industry every day.

Automotive Technician

Jose Giron Melgar brings over 10 years of automotive experience to the Rusty’s Garage team and is dedicated to keeping vehicles safe, reliable, and ready for the road. He understands how important dependable transportation is for work, family, and everyday life, and he approaches every repair with careful attention to detail and a commitment to quality workmanship.

As a husband and father of three, Jose’s strong family values influence the way he approaches his work. Honesty, integrity, and treating every vehicle as if it were his own family’s are principles that guide him each day in the shop.

Originally from Virginia, Jose relocated to Texas four years ago and is proud to serve the Houston community by providing dependable automotive service and helping customers stay safely on the road.

Jose is bilingual in English and Spanish, allowing him to clearly communicate with and assist a wide range of customers.

Co-Ambassador In Training

Milo, our newest pup addition, fills our hearts with joy. Committed to working alongside Pat, he aspires to become our Co-ambassador. Guided by his Big Brother, Milo explores his surroundings freely, chasing tennis balls and playfully destroying squeaky toys. During weekends, Milo's favorite activity involves chasing anything that moves at the ranch and jumping into the lake to try to stay cool, even when it's 40 degrees outside. Wherever he goes, you'll never find him without Pat by his side, their bond unbreakable. On his way to work, Milo's ears perk up to the wind blowing in his hair. Milo's infectious enthusiasm and unwavering loyalty inspire us at Rusty's Garage.

Beloved Chief Ambassador

In loving memory of Rocky, our 15-year-old shop dog who was with Rusty's Garage since day one. His spirit as the joyous greeter and playful guide touched everyone. With a tail always wagging and a penchant for treats, he spread happiness effortlessly. Rocky's presence, filled with loyalty and cheer from the very beginning, remains a cherished part of our story.