UTEP Alumna Turns Family Dream into Ke Flauta 

February 2025
By Alexandra Sanchez ’17 

For many alumni, UTEP serves as a steppingstone to career success. For one alumna however, it became the foundation for bringing a long-standing family dream to life. Karen Aguilar, BBA ’17, founded Ke Flauta, a beloved fast-casual eatery in El Paso, blending traditional Mexican cuisine with modern twists and exceptional customer service. 

The Story Behind Ke Flauta 

“This has been a part of my life since I was younger than college,” shared Karen Aguilar, owner of Ke Flauta, whose journey began at the age of 13. Inspired by her family’s early vision of creating a high-quality, customizable dining experience, she carried the dream into adulthood. After graduating from UTEP in 2017 with a degree in Business Administration, Karen honed her skills abroad in Costa Rica, managing food services for major corporations such as IBM, HP, and Boston Scientific. 

“I like numbers, I like optimizing sales, and more importantly, I love customer service,” Aguilar mentioned. Her time working in large-scale restaurant operations clarified her next steps: to return to El Paso, invest in her own business, and honor her family’s dream. 

How UTEP Shaped the Journey 

“My time at UTEP played an important role in shaping my career and entrepreneurial journey,” Aguilar reflected. Academically, her studies in Business Administration, with an emphasis in Human Resources and International Business, provided a strong foundation for her future endeavors. Courses in HR equipped her to build a cohesive team, while her international business studies broadened her perspective during her time abroad. 

UTEP’s impact extended beyond the classroom. Once a shy freshman, Karen credits programs at UTEP with helping her develop confidence and communication skills. Experiences such as serving as Vice President of External Affairs in the Student Government Association and representing UTEP at the UT System level taught her the importance of advocating for herself and others. 

“Being part of Miner Ambassadors taught me how to interact with high-profile individuals, which has been invaluable as a business owner,” Aguilar explained. The skills she gained through a business fraternity, such as networking and leadership roles, now shape the customer service philosophy at Ke Flauta, where every customer is treated like family. 

A Community Impact 

Celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, Ke Flauta has become an integral part of both the UTEP and El Paso communities. “I like to think of Ke Flauta as just another department at UTEP because so much of our success is thanks to the incredible connections I’ve built through the University,” Aguilar stated. 

The business supports UTEP students by offering flexible job opportunities, enabling them to balance work and academics. “One of my proudest moments was celebrating the graduation of one of my employees; it felt like cheering for family,” Aguilar said. Ke Flauta also partners with UTEP Athletics, the Business MBA Program, and local organizations such as El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) and the El Paso Junior League. 

Sharing her story with UTEP students is another way she gives back. She emphasizes that success doesn’t have to follow a linear path. “Resilience, adaptability, and embracing opportunities can lead to fulfilling and unexpected destinations,” Aguilar advised. 

Behind the Scenes 

“A typical day at Ke Flauta? I never know what the day will unveil,” Aguilar laughed. From administrative work to preparing orders or delivering meals to local hospitals, she wears many hats.  

“The main thing an entrepreneur has to make peace with is this: the business has to get done, with or without employees,” she said. Her hands-on approach has been vital in navigating challenges, especially during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Looking Ahead 

As Ke Flauta continues to thrive, Aguilar has ambitious plans for the future. In the short term, she aims to grow sales and solidify the restaurant’s status as a Sun Bowl Drive staple. Long term, she envisions expanding to new locations while maintaining the heart and soul of the business. 

“My dream is to take Ke Flauta’s flavors, atmosphere, and commitment to community to new locations while still staying true to our roots here in El Paso,” Aguilar added. While the thought of moving beyond the UTEP area is bittersweet, she remains confident that the support of the El Paso and UTEP communities will follow wherever the journey leads.