Star City Six – Ben Robles
John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning is a locally-owned company that has been serving the Lincoln community since 1996. Ben Robles is chief financial officer at John Henry’s Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning (www.jhlincoln.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
John Henry’s is dedicated to building and developing a team of outstanding individuals who provide premium quality products and services, while sharing a total commitment to regularly exceeding the expectations of their customers. We care about the health of our community and saving lives. We offer plumbing, heating, air conditioning, duct cleaning, and water conditioning services. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and in all kinds of weather to provide true customer service.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Having spent almost 15 years in corporate America, the biggest challenge I always found myself in was being the youngest and having the least business experience in the room. As I have navigated my career path, my age no longer separates me from my peers, but the years of having to navigate that challenge has paid dividends many times over.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Several years ago, I had the opportunity to travel to Neuss, Germany to participate in a two-week leadership course with colleagues from all over the world. This experience taught me about myself and my desire to be a leader more than I could have ever imagined.
Tell us a little about your family.
My wife Andrea and I have been married for six years. We have three children, Raymond (5), Marco (4), and Catalina (1).
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Golfing and backyard grilling/smoking.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I am a very detailed person. When I am learning, I must explore all the whys and hows before I can truly grasp what I am learning.
Who inspires you?
My late grandfather is my true inspiration of life. He endured many years of hard work in the packing plants of South Omaha to give our family the ability to be where we are today. That sacrifice taught me many valuable lessons.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
UPS Founder Jim Casey once gave a speech, titled A Talk with Joe, to the company’s management team. There is a an excerpt of his talk in which he describes “Joe” as being constructively dissatisfied and, because of this, he surely makes a mark in his company. Since reading that, “constructively dissatisfied” is what I strive to be in all that I do. I’m determined to stay on the path of excellence.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Loyal.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Music or fashion. While I do not consider myself very musical or fashion-forward, the behind-the-scenes of these productions have always fascinated me.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
La Cabaña or Leadbelly.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
As an avid sports fan, Michael Jordan would be my choice.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 802-9399; Email: brobles@jhlincoln.com; Website: www.jhlincoln.com.