River City Six – Lori Sorensen
Meet Lori Sorensen, vice president and co-owner of FireGuard Inc. (www.fireguardusa.com)
Tell us a little about your business.
FireGuard is a local family-owned company that eliminates the need to contact multiple companies by offering complete life safety solutions. We design, sell, install, inspect, and service all types of fire protection and life safety equipment. One Call. One Source.
How did you get started in the business?
Bob Sorensen and I are the owners of FireGuard, which opened in 1994. It has been (and still is) my privilege to work alongside family members in our day-to-day operations. FireGuard started out installing and servicing fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, and kitchen suppression systems, along with sales of fire department equipment including ambulances and fire trucks for municipality and volunteer fire departments. In 2016, we decided to part ways with the fire department equipment division of the company to allow FireGuard to focus on our core business. FireGuard is committed to the highest standards of quality in the products we sell and the services we provide, while keeping excellence in customer service the top priority.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Being a family-owned business, it is often challenging to turn off work conversations when outside of the office. We are just so passionate about what we do!
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
I am very proud of the “family” culture we have worked so hard to build. FireGuard’s success is a direct result of our exemplary employees working hard and supporting each other each and every day to provide priceless protection within our community.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
In a world where you can be anything, be kind.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
To heal. There are some special people in my life who have been diagnosed with illnesses this year, which has broken my heart to see. If only I could wave my magic wand.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
Project Harmony. They do so much for children; it is truly an amazing facility. I recommend everyone to go visit and see first-hand all of the wonderful services they provide. Additionally, I am passionate about the Papillion Volunteer Fire Department. My dad was on the fire department for many years, so it’s dear to my heart. We no longer make calls, but we do provide the community with AEDs, along with various other fundraising opportunities and community outreach.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate. I gravitate toward anything related to historical fiction.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Blue Sushi.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I have a wonderful group of friends who I have known for many years. We often get together for dinners, volunteering, shopping, etc.
If you could choose another profession to be successful in, what would it be?
I was in nursing for 30 years. I absolutely loved everything about the profession and being able to connect with and help others in times of need.
What is your favorite TV show?
I seem to enjoy any show that is on HGTV. Lots of inspiration for new projects!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 898-2225; Email: lori.sorensen@fireguardusa.com; Website: www.fireguardusa.com.