After 37 years of exceptional leadership, Steve Carboni is retiring from Shupe, Carboni & Associates. Since joining the company in 1988, Steve has been a driving force behind its growth, championing a culture of service, innovation, and trust that defines us today.
As we reflect on Steve’s remarkable career, we celebrate his many accomplishments, honor his legacy, and look ahead to the bright future he has helped shape for our team and partners.
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leadership
When Steve joined Shupe Carboni & Associates in 1988, it was a modest operation—just Steve and founder Jim Shupe, working out of their homes with a vision of building something greater. At that time, the company served only Tennessee, Kentucky, and northern Alabama, and every effort was hands-on.
Under Steve’s leadership, Shupe Carboni & Associates has grown into a thriving operation with a dedicated team of sales and customer service professionals supporting our territories across Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky, Florida, and Puerto Rico. A major milestone was the company’s expansion into Florida in 2018, which has since become one of its largest and most successful markets.
This growth has been driven by Steve’s focus on building relationships, expanding services, and investing in the infrastructure needed to better serve distributors and manufacturers. From adding complementary product lines to launching innovative resources, Steve’s leadership has been instrumental in positioning Shupe Carboni & Associates as a trusted partner in the HVAC/R industry.
A Legacy of Service and Excellence
What truly sets Steve apart is his unwavering commitment to service. As he puts it, “Sometimes the win is helping the customer, even if we don’t make any money.” This philosophy has become a cornerstone of Shupe Carboni & Associates’s culture, inspiring the team to always prioritize relationships over transactions.
Steve’s leadership style has been equally impactful within the company. Reflecting on his team, he shared, “I’ve been very blessed to put together a team of all-stars. They’ve embraced everything we were trying to achieve wholeheartedly. Their determination, professionalism, and ability to find solutions when the answers aren’t always clear—it’s extraordinary.”
A New Era at Shupe, Carboni & Associates
As Steve steps into retirement, Shupe Carboni & Associates is transitioning to a shared ownership model, ensuring that the collaborative spirit he fostered continues to guide the company’s future.
“The leadership team communicates extremely well and makes great decisions,” Steve said. “They have all the tools they need to be successful, and I fully expect them to continue experiencing tremendous growth.”
Steve’s pride in his team is evident, and it’s clear that the feeling is mutual. His mentorship and guidance have left a lasting impression, shaping Shupe Carboni & Associates into a company where integrity, respect, and service are more than values—they’re a way of doing business.
What’s Next for Steve?
Retirement marks a new beginning for Steve, one that he plans to fill with family, travel, and the simple joys of life. With nine grandchildren spread out across the country, Steve is looking forward to being an active part of their lives. He also hopes to find time for a little “selfish travel,” including trips to New York City to catch Yankees games, savor world-class dining, and enjoy the magic of Broadway.
A Life and Career Shaped by Partnership
Behind every great leader is a strong support system. For Steve, that was his wife, Donna. A saleswoman herself, Donna not only understood the demands of the industry but also became Steve’s partner in every sense. From their marriage in 1998 until her passing, Donna played an integral role in Steve’s life and career, offering wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering support.
As Steve steps into retirement, he carries her memory with him, honoring her legacy as a cornerstone of his own success.
Thank You, Steve
Steve, your leadership, vision, and dedication have shaped Shupe Carboni & Associates into the company it is today. Your commitment to excellence and service has left an indelible mark on all of us, and we are grateful for the example you’ve set.
As we carry forward the legacy you’ve built, we do so with pride and excitement for the future. Thank you for everything, Steve. Here’s to your well-deserved retirement—and to the bright future you’ve made possible for Shupe, Carboni & Associates.