Tell us a little bit about Captains Car Service:
Captains Car Service is a veteran-owned, Cleveland-based luxury transportation company proudly serving Northeast Ohio and beyond. While we officially launched in 2008, the foundation was laid well before that. I started driving professionally in 1994 as a side hustle while building my career in sales. Over the years, I worked part-time for two other limousine companies, gaining hands-on experience and a real feel for the industry. Around 2001–2002, I made the move to full-time work in chauffeured transportation and eventually earned the role of General Manager at a well-established limo company.
It was during that time I noticed a gap in the market, particularly in the level of service and attention that corporate clients truly deserved. That insight, along with a passion for high standards and customer care, led me to start Captains Car Service. From day one, the focus has been simple: deliver unmatched professionalism, build lasting client relationships, and make every ride feel effortless, polished, and reliable.
Today, we operate with a small but highly capable core team and a reliable network of experienced independent chauffeurs. While I’ve downsized the owned fleet over the years, we're still fully equipped to handle our clients’ needs with professionalism and ease. Our current focus is primarily on sedans and SUVs, which allows us to stay flexible without sacrificing quality. Even with the industry shifts brought on by the pandemic, we’ve continued to grow and adapt—now serving a mix of roughly 60% corporate and 40% leisure clients.
As for the name, despite what some might assume, “Captains Car Service” isn’t military-themed. While I am a Navy veteran, the name was more of a fun play on “Captain Kirk” from Star Trek than a reference to my service. I also wanted to avoid the overused “limousine” label and create something memorable, approachable, and a little different. Turns out, it worked—people remember the name, and they remember the service.
What do you wish more people knew about the business?
A lot of people still think of transportation as simply getting from point A to point B. But what happens in between is where the real value lies. That’s where our “+1 Philosophy” comes in—a commitment to always going one step further for our clients. Whether it’s fresh pastries in the morning, flowers on a special occasion, or a late-night pizza after a concert, our chauffeurs have the discretion to offer thoughtful touches along the way. We provide them with a modest allowance to create these moments because it’s about delivering an experience, not just a ride.
Not many people know about our year-round Military Honors Rides program, and I wish more did. It’s one of the things I’m most proud of. This initiative provides complimentary transportation home for active-duty service members and veterans within a 45-minute radius of Cleveland’s major transportation hubs. As a Navy veteran, this program is personal. It’s not about offering a discount—it’s about truly giving back to those who’ve served.
How did you, personally, end up in the transportation industry?
Honestly, it’s been a winding road. I served in the Navy from 1988 to 1992, working in military intelligence where I decoded top-secret Morse code communications. Just before I was discharged, I earned my CDL—not realizing at the time how pivotal that would be for my future. After my service, I explored various sales roles—lawn care, beer, wine, even Hostess snack cakes. While sales wasn’t my long-term path, it taught me valuable lessons about customer service, communication, and the importance of detail.
Eventually, through a connection, I was introduced to the owner of a limousine company. I started driving part-time, gained experience, and worked my way up to General Manager. Along the way, I built a relationship with a corporate client who completely shifted my mindset. They helped me understand the difference between basic transportation and true executive service. That moment lit the fire that became Captains Car Service.
What has been your experience as an ILLBA member?
It’s been a great journey. I’ve been involved in the industry for quite a while, so when ILLBA reached out, joining felt like a natural fit. I already knew Paula through Bill Fayeth, and I’ve attended both years of the Great Lakes Transportation Show. The networking and exchange of ideas have been incredibly valuable.
I’m also a long-standing, proud member of the National Limousine Association (NLA), and currently serve as Secretary of the Ohio Chauffeured Transportation Association (OCTA), which I helped found about two years ago. These organizations are about more than just industry updates—they’re about relationships. Between these and other industry events, I’ve been able to grow a vast affiliate network that allows me to extend the top-tier service I take pride in—not just locally, but nationwide. I truly believe in building up the community we work in, sharing knowledge, and raising the standard of service together.
How are you spending your time outside of the business?
I’ve got four kids and five grandkids who definitely keep me on my toes—ages range from 6 months to 8 years old. I like a little gaming here and there, and when I get a chance to unwind, I enjoy a few rounds of Call of Duty. Between running the business, spending time with family, and staying active with industry associations, free time can be hard to come by—but I do my best to stay balanced and enjoy the ride.
Any predictions, hopes, or ambitions for the future of our industry?
I’m really intrigued by how automation and AI are shaping the future of our industry. I don’t believe they’ll ever replace the human touch—that personal connection is too important—but I do think they’ll make us better and more efficient. We’re already using tools like dynamic pricing, automated booking, integrated CRM systems, and even follow-up calls and videos to streamline operations and elevate the client experience. It’s all about making things smoother and more personal. In my view, the companies that lean into smart tech without losing their service mindset are the ones that will truly thrive.
You can reach Kirk at [email protected], +1 440-782-1227, or on LinkedIn.
Learn more about Captains Car Service on their website and connect with them on Facebook.