Interview no. 1531

Roberto Torres, owner of the eponymous certified public accounting firm, here shares his experiences both as a successful professional and El Paso business owner. Born in El Paso in 1951 to Gustavo and Carolina Torres, young Roberto was strongly influenced by his father’s entrepreneurial aspirations. After graduating from Jesuit High School, Torres attended the University of Texas at El Paso, earning an accounting degree in 1974. Gaining valuable experience, Torres spent many years working for large accounting firms. Throughout his early career he learned to understand the field’s unique climate and perfected his both his accounting and interpersonal skills. In 1999, Torres struck out on his own, using only his personal savings to start up Roberto Torres and Company, P.C. From the beginning, his business enjoyed success. Torres credits this to his efforts to establish a strong reputation through solid work and a good client base. At this time, he has expanded his clientele to include international clients as well. Torres concludes the interview by offering advice to aspiring Hispanic professionals: remain optimistic, perfect language skills, and be persistent