About us
Tropacaval Media is a full service marketing and advertising firm primarily focused on automobile dealers in Texas. Direct mail, broadcast television, cable, radio, outdoor, internet, and digital solutions tailored to any size budget. We focus on bringing traffic to your place of business, your website, and your phone. We can help you eliminate waste and create campaigns that produce results.
Ben Keating
President/Owner
Ben Keating, a proud Texas A&M graduate of the Class of 1994, holds a degree in Industrial Engineering alongside his wife, Kathleen. Beginning his career in the automotive industry at Covert Ford in Austin, Ben worked his way through various management roles before purchasing a small Ford dealership in Port Lavaca, TX, in 2002. Over two decades, the Keating Auto Group has grown into the largest privately-held auto group in Texas, comprising 31 dealerships and ranking 15th among the top dealer groups in the U.S.
In 2024, Ben was honored by the Texas Auto Dealers Association with a nomination for the TIME Dealer of the Year Award. Beyond his business success, Ben is an accomplished endurance sports car racer. He has claimed the Michelin North American Endurance Cup five times in seven years, won the GT class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans multiple times, and secured back-to-back World Championships in the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2022 and 2023.
Scott Wideman
Marketing Director
My career in automotive marketing began somewhat unexpectedly. I landed my first job in the industry after what was initially intended to be a “practice interview.” Despite early uncertainty and skepticism from my parents about my choice, I found my passion in the automotive world and worked my way up. Starting as a fresh college graduate, I embraced the opportunity to grow quickly, gaining valuable training, tools, and rewards for my achievements.
Over the years, I’ve advanced to become the marketing director for 32 stores (as of Dec 2024) within Keating Auto Group. This role has allowed me to combine my skills as a "car guy" with expertise in marketing and advertising, shaping strategies that influence decisions across multiple departments. I’ve built strong business relationships within the organization, with industry experts, and with professionals in automotive, marketing, and digital innovation.
For more than 25 years, I’ve led Keating’s ad agency, adapting to an ever-changing retail, digital, and advertising landscape. Staying at the forefront of the industry requires continual learning, which I achieve through practical conferences, partnerships with industry leaders, and experimentation. While the challenges evolve, the opportunities to grow, create success, and make an impact remain constant.
Looking back, I’m proud of my journey and the decision to enter the car business. It has brought personal and professional fulfillment while allowing me to give back by mentoring and creating opportunities for others. If you have questions or want to explore a collaboration, I’d be happy to connect at 361-574-8568 or scott@keatingauto.com.