Stephanie Flores is the owner of Rubi Heating & Cooling. Read our interview with Stephanie about her experience with Xcelerate Business Advising and Peer Mentor Groups. 

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What inspired you to start your own business? 

As a woman-owned, family-operated HVAC company based in Hillsboro, I was inspired to start our business by a commitment to our community and a passion for delivering exceptional service. I wanted to create a business that not only provides reliable HVAC solutions but also supports local families, fostering a sense of trust and connection within the community. Our motivation is rooted in our desire to build a company that values hard work, integrity, and a strong work ethic. Additionally, I aim to leave a legacy for my children, building something lasting that they can be proud of.

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What were some of your key goals that you worked with Xcelerate on this year? 

Being paired with my mentor Gloria was truly an eye-opening experience. Together, we immediately got to work on breaking down my goals and making them more attainable. My primary goal for the year was to organize the business better. After some research, we implemented a task management software that helped keep the entire office aligned and communicating effectively. Another key focus was fostering clear and consistent communication between the office and field staff, ensuring we operated as a unified team.

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How has your identity as a woman and any and all other intersectional identities impacted your business?

My identity as a Latina woman has played a big role in how I run my HVAC business. Coming from a Latino-owned company, I understand the importance of community and the value of hard work, which are core principles in our business. Being in a male-dominated industry hasn’t always been easy—I’ve had to deal with some stereotypes and challenges—but those experiences have made me more resilient and determined to succeed.

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This perspective also allows me to connect with diverse clients and tailor our services to meet their unique needs. I take pride in fostering an inclusive workplace and bringing fresh ideas to the table. My identity isn’t just a part of who I am—it’s a strength that shapes our company’s values and success.

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What were some of the challenges you faced this year and how did working with Xcelerate help you to overcome these challenges?

Working with Xcelerate has been an incredible experience. I used to feel like I was navigating the challenges of running a business and balancing motherhood on my own. At times, it was overwhelming to manage the demands and obstacles that came with it. Joining this organization changed everything. Through their workshops, I gained valuable tools to apply to my business, and being part of the Peer Mentor Group allowed me to exchange ideas and learn from other women at different stages of their business and personal journeys. It's truly inspiring to grow, learn, and gain insights from such diverse perspectives.

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Are there any wins or achievements you have celebrated this year while working with Xcelerate? For example - hiring new employees, paying yourself, quitting a day job, achieving profitability, opening a new location, increase in sales, launching a new product. Please be as specific as possible.

During my time with Xcelerate, I developed a procedure to ensure my team and I stay aligned on expectations. With guidance from my mentors, I also created an effective onboarding process. Along the way, I’ve learned—and continue to learn—how to be a more effective leader and communicate more effectively. I'm excited for 2025 and the opportunity to collaborate on exciting projects with fellow business owners I connected with through Xcelerate, all aimed at growing Rubi HVAC. 

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How do you personally define success for you and your business?

Success for me means achieving a balance between my personal and professional life. As a Latina woman, a mother of three, and a wife, I find fulfillment in creating a thriving HVAC business that provides quality service and positively impacts my community. Personally, success is also about being a role model for my children, showing them the value of hard work, determination, and breaking barriers. I truly enjoy growing a company that not only empowers my employees but also validates their contributions, encouraging them to take pride in their work. At the end of the day, success is not just about financial growth, but about making a meaningful difference in the lives of my family, employees, and customers.To me, success is hearing from a customer who loved working with our company, felt great from start to finish, and was impressed with the high-quality work. When they say they’ll recommend us to others, it fills me with pride.

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Find them: @rubihvac