Shelly Ruwe
Shelly Ruwe is a seasoned leader and connector with over 20 years of experience spanning education and training, real estate, and medical device sales. Known for her ability to quickly build meaningful relationships, she specializes in motivating others, guiding growth, and helping individuals and organizations reach their full potential. Shelly’s approach blends strategic insight with a people-centered philosophy, emphasizing collaboration, active listening, and authentic connection as the foundation for sustainable success.
Throughout her career, Shelly has held leadership roles in multiple industries, earning recognition for exceeding goals, driving team growth, and advancing organizational development. Her current focus is on education and training, where she dedicates herself to helping others improve incrementally—striving to be “1% better every day.” As a licensed realtor and Director of Development at CFO Systems, LLC, she leverages her expertise in coaching, business development, and relationship-building to support both professional and community growth initiatives.
Beyond her professional achievements, Shelly is deeply committed to her family and community. As a single parent, she takes pride in demonstrating resilience, determination, and possibility to her daughter. An avid traveler, pilot, and golf enthusiast, she also dedicates her time to supporting local nonprofits through fundraising and event planning. Shelly’s journey is shaped by continuous learning, the courage to take risks, and the belief that every experience—success or failure—offers valuable lessons to guide the next step.
• Licensed Realtor
• Ambassador - Greater Omaha Chamber
• Member - ACG
• Rotarian
• Integrator
• Accelerate Leadership Program
• Bellevue University - B.S.
• Rotary
• Local nonprofit development and fundraising committees
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion and unwavering commitment to achieving my goals. I approach each challenge with determination, progressing steadily—whether it’s one step at a time or making several strides forward at once.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to know my values and stay true to them. My values may not be the same as anyone else’s, but it’s essential that I understand what they are and live by them consistently.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to focus on the “what,” not the “why.” The “why” belongs to the past, while the “what” shapes the future. Ask yourself: What’s standing in my way? What do I truly want? What isn’t working, and what matters most? Focusing on these questions will guide your actions and decisions forward.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field is managing generational talent, with up to eight generations in the workforce creating communication gaps—younger employees may struggle to articulate themselves, while older employees may resist technology. The greatest opportunity lies in bridging these gaps through coaching, listening, and connection, turning potential conflict into collaboration and ensuring knowledge and experience are shared across generations.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are captured by the acronym WEALTH: Wisdom, Excitement, Appreciation, Love, Trust, and Honesty. These principles shape how I make decisions, build relationships, and approach every opportunity with integrity and purpose.
Locations
CFO Systems, LLC
Omaha, NE 68144