Powering Growth
What is your full name, and where are you from?
Lori Porreca, originally from Michigan but I have been in Lancaster for 50 years.
Can you share a little about your professional background and current role?
I was in sales and business development for most of my career and started A1 Energy with one of our sons in 2005. Over the course of a few years, my husband and our other two sons all decided to come on board, and I have had the privilege of serving as the owner and President since the very beginning.
What inspired you to get involved in your family business (or field of work)?
I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit, and in 2005 I decided to start a company with Jesse to give him an opportunity to explore his direction after earning his business degree.
What do you consider your biggest passion or driving force in your career?
The driving force in my career has always been sharing what I’ve learned and overcome with others-teaching as I go-so that I can continue growing and moving on to the next challenge.
Have you experienced any challenges or adversity in your journey? If so, how did you overcome them?
Owning a business is full of challenges and adversity and it is important that you are not only wired to survive in that environment but thrive in it. I believe the key to long-term success lies in understanding that it is the small things – done with excellence every single day. Rarely is it one big idea or the next big sale that changes the trajectory of a business, but it is the consistent execution of small actions and small ideas that lead to success.
What lessons have you learned from navigating the highs and lows of your journey?
One of the biggest lessons I have learned in navigating the highs and lows of the A1 journey is the critical importance of cash flow. I have learned to make sure we have a clear line of sight on cash for at least 8-12 weeks ahead, if not longer. Strong sales and great customer service are essential, but without healthy cash flow, the business becomes vulnerable and can quickly find itself facing challenging times.
What advice would you give to the next generation stepping into leadership roles?
The advice I would give the next generation is to remain a lifelong learner – never lose your childlike curiosity. And always remember that when you are given authority, it is meant to serve others, not to be exercised over them.
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future—for yourself, your family business, or your community?
I believe the best days are ahead. I am confident that the economy in the US and in Pennsylvania will continue to grow, creating incredible opportunities. I also believe A1 will expand to a whole new level when I decide to step aside and the next generation takes the reins, and I look forward with great anticipation and eagerness to the next BIG opportunity in my life.
This blog post was written by Lori Porreca and inspired by her entrepreneurial journey with A1 Energy. Her reflection offers insight into the discipline, perseverance, and passion it takes to lead a family business—and the belief that lasting success comes from curiosity, consistency, and serving others with purpose.