Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find out more about the staff at Auto Connections of Bellevue:

Stu Cordova - Founder & Owner, Sales

Born in Seattle and a longtime Eastside resident, I’ve called this community home since 1963. After graduating from Bellevue High School in 1971, I went to work for my father, who owned one of Bellevue’s first small grocery stores. Around that time, I also discovered a passion for restoring and selling old cars — a hobby that helped fund my college education and planted the seed for my future career.   I earned a B.A. in Counseling and Education from Western Washington University and spent 15 years working as a rehabilitation counselor for at-risk youth. My focus was on helping students, families, and schools build better lines of communication and support. While I found that work deeply meaningful, my passion for cars eventually brought me back to the automotive world.  What began as a part-time sales position at a small dealership quickly reignited my enthusiasm — but I also saw firsthand the high-pressure sales tactics and impersonal service that many customers disliked. I knew there had to be a better way.  In 1997, I launched Auto Connections of Bellevue with one goal: to create a relaxed, transparent, and customer-focused car-buying experience. I wanted to do business with honesty, integrity, and genuine respect for every person who walks through our doors.  Today, I’m proud to say we’ve grown from a six-car lot to a thriving dealership selling over 50 vehicles a month — all while staying true to the values that started it all. As we celebrate 28 years in business, I remain just as committed to helping customers find the right car as I was on day one.  Whether you're a first-time buyer or a returning customer, I’m here to be your advocate — not just a salesperson. Let’s make your next car-buying experience one you’ll actually enjoy.

Keith Dinsmore - General Manager, Sales

With over 40 years of experience in the automotive industry across a wide range of roles, I bring a deep and well-rounded understanding of how this business works — and more importantly, how it should work.  I spent more than 30 years selling and managing at new car franchises, where I witnessed firsthand the many different ways dealerships approach customers and vehicle sales. That experience gave me a clear perspective on what truly matters: transparency, integrity, and quality. And I can confidently say that Auto Connections of Bellevue is one of the best in the business when it comes to treating customers right and offering top-quality vehicles.
What I love most about working here is knowing that every car on our lot has been thoroughly inspected for both structural and mechanical integrity — ready to serve our customers reliably for the long haul. For me, cars are more than just a profession. I'm a true automotive enthusiast who takes pride in representing unique, desirable, and dependable vehicles that offer real value. I understand that a car can be anything from a practical necessity to a deeply personal passion — and I work hard to help each customer find the vehicle that fits their life, their needs, and their personality. I've lived and raised my four sons right here in the Puget Sound area, and for the past 25 years, I’ve been proud to represent Auto Connections of Bellevue — a business that you can truly count on to do things the right way.

Mike Vena - Finance Manager

With 28 years of experience in the auto industry, I’ve worked in a variety of roles including sales, finance, and consulting. This range of experience has given me a well-rounded understanding of the car-buying process — and what customers really want: honesty, clarity, and great service.  I joined the Auto Connections family because I truly value the low-pressure, customer-first environment. It’s refreshing to be part of a team that prioritizes integrity and strives to make every car purchase a positive experience.  Outside of work, I’m a passionate sports fan — Go Dawgs! — and I love spending quality time at home with my daughter Austen and our two cats, Chandler and Monica. When I’m not with them, you can usually find me out on the golf course, playing baseball, or enjoying a good wine tasting around Woodinville.

Frank Vena - Ast. Office Manager, Retail Sales

I was born and raised in the Mt. Baker area and graduated from Mercer Island High School in 1972. After attending Gonzaga and Seattle University — where I played baseball and studied education - I was offered a contract to play in the Philadelphia Phillies’ farm system, but with a wedding on the horizon I chose to pursue a more stable career path. That was 45 years ago, and I’ve been in the car business ever since. I spent my first 25 years in sales and management at new car dealerships, eventually discovering a passion and talent for appraising and acquiring pre-owned vehicles.  In 2003, I met Stu Cordova, the founder of Auto Connections. When he offered me a role as a buyer during the dealership’s expansion, I jumped at the chance — and it’s been the most rewarding chapter of my career. The low-pressure, professional environment here makes it a great place to work, and I consider being part of the Auto Connections family one of the true blessings of my life.

Kurt Geibel - Retail Sales

A Seattle native, I’ve spent my entire life in and around the city — except for a few college years in sunny Santa Rosa, California. I consider myself an entrepreneur at heart, with a passion for skiing, snowboarding, boating, selling (just about anything), and spending time with my daughter.  Whether it’s cars, boats, motorcycles, or homes — I’m always buying, selling, or negotiating. For me, it's not just about the deal; it’s about building relationships and creating a better quality of life — both for myself and my customers.  I joined Auto Connections because I believe in changing the old stereotype of the used car business. We treat people with honesty and respect, offer quality vehicles, and stand behind what we sell. Working here gives me the freedom to do what I love — in a way that truly serves our customers.

Mark Walesby - Retail Sales

I’ve been in the car business for about 30 years — all of them right here at Auto Connections of Bellevue. I’ve stayed because I genuinely love what I do: helping people find quality vehicles at fair prices, and treating every customer with the honesty and respect they deserve.  Auto Connections gives me the freedom to do business the right way — with integrity and a personal touch.  Outside of work, I enjoy golfing, fishing, and skiing. I’m active in my church and proud to have been married to the same amazing woman for over 50 years.

Heidi L. Webster – Broker/Sales

I’ve spent my entire career in the automotive industry, starting with General Motors Institute in Michigan and a cooperative role with Chevrolet Motor Division. After graduation, I worked for five years as a factory service and sales consultant with Chevrolet, serving markets in Seattle, Salt Lake City, and San Diego.  My journey then took me into automotive advertising, where I developed regional and national campaigns for Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Honda dealers across the Midwest and Southern California. In 1987, I shifted into automotive purchasing consulting — a role that brought me to Los Angeles, Denver, and eventually back to Seattle in 1992, where I’ve been helping individuals and businesses purchase and lease vehicles ever since.  In my spare time, I enjoy staying active with our Collies — especially Benny, who is now a therapy dog, agility competitor, and working toward his Grand Championship!

 Rusty - Official Greeter, 

Faithful Friend, Beloved Team Member 

(2002 - 2018)

Rusty was a cherished part of the Auto Connections family for over 15 years, proudly serving as our Official Greeter. He welcomed everyone who walked through our doors with a wagging tail and a gentle spirit, bringing joy to staff and customers alike.  Rusty wasn’t just a dog — he was a beloved companion and an unforgettable presence in our showroom. His loyalty, warmth, and wet-nosed greetings will be deeply missed by all who knew him.  Rest in peace, Rusty. You were truly one of a kind.