In a culmination of passion, dedication, and the power of following one’s dreams, AFS’s own Hector Rodriguez was recently named Best Barber in Utah by The Beauty University. The award recognizes excellence in the beauty industry, but for Hector, it’s about much more than accolades.
“I’ve always wanted to do this for as long as I can remember,” says Hector, who has been with AFS for 16 years. His journey to becoming the company’s full-time barber began a decade ago when he enrolled in barber school. What started as cutting coworkers’ hair eventually led to a unique opportunity: establishing an on-site barbershop at the distribution center.
“It started as a 6-month contract, and now I’ve been doing this for six years,” Hector explains. The shop has become more than just a place for haircuts – it’s a sanctuary within the busy distribution center. “It’s a time to relax, have a good conversation, and destress from the day,” he adds.
Operating under his business name KaneloJacy – a combination of a nickname earned from a hair-coloring mishap that turned his hair redder (canelo, meaning cinnamon in Spanish) and his oldest son’s name (Jacy) – Hector serves the over 1,000 employees that work at the distribution center. Many team members consider the barbershop one of their favorite perks of working at the warehouse.
Despite winning this prestigious award, Hector remains humble. “I don’t consider myself the best. But I do give my best to my clients. As long as I give the best for my clients, that’s what matters to me.” His acceptance speech reflected this modest attitude: “If you get to feed your family with a career you love, you’re a winner too!”
Hector’s success story exemplifies how AFS nurtures talent and embraces innovative ideas from within. From his early days in the distribution center to becoming an award-winning barber serving his colleagues, Hector truly embodies the spirit of opportunity and growth at AFS. His journey shows how the company’s willingness to support team members’ dreams can lead to unique additions to the workplace culture, enriching everyone’s experience.
“I’m just blessed to have my dream job,” Hector says, summing up his gratitude for the opportunity AFS has provided him to pursue his passion while serving his colleagues. As Hector continues to serve his fellow team members with the same care and expertise that earned him Utah’s Best Barber, he reminds us that great companies are built by remarkable people who dare to dream big and work hard to make those dreams reality.