Former bail bondsman Jorge Rubio has heard it all. One individual who needed bail told him on the phone, “I was on the news for shooting my wife this morning.” With 15 years in the bail industry, there was something new every day.   

 

A man of compassion and empathy, Jorge knew he was meeting people on the worst day of their lives. What is even more remarkable is that at the age of 17, Jorge was a victim of gun violence himself at a house party. “It was a traumatic event that helped mold my life going forward,” he says. Since that traumatic event, he has helped those in trouble with the law and met many interesting individuals throughout his career, including an identity thief.   

 

When one person met Jorge for a bail bond, the identity theft victim had a fraud alert on his credit. Jorge called the number on his credit report to verify his identity. That is when he learned the person in front of him was the identity thief, who had made several fraudulent purchases using the victim's identity, including many at Best Buy. Interestingly, the identity thief looked like the victim with facial similarities on their driver’s license.  

 

It is one of many stories that Jorge has had over the years.   

 

Now Jorge enjoys a different type of adventurous life with a new career with INSURICA, a commercial insurance agency, here in Bakersfield. “I made a career change last June,” he says. INSURICA is based in Oklahoma City and provides business insurance, property and casualty, workers’ compensation, risk management, and employee benefits. Jorge got his CLCS designation after attending Hartford Insurance School.   

 

“I’m new to the world of commercial insurance but I’m still in the business of helping people,” he says. “I like it. It is interesting so far and I am learning a lot. I love helping business owners proactively manage and mitigate their risk.”    

 

Meanwhile, his wife Irene works as a claim specialist for State Farm, handling property claims related to natural disasters. Her quiet, reserved nature complements Jorge’s outgoing personality, creating a balanced partnership. Working from home, Irene has transformed one of their bedrooms into her office, where she navigates the complexities of her role with grace and professionalism.  

 

The couple’s friendship began in high school, but it was not until they were in their twenties that their relationship blossomed. A true friendship – that has turned into 16 years of marriage. Raised in Bakersfield, Jorge and Irene have built a close-knit family with their three daughters: Isabella, 18, a recent graduate exploring a future in healthcare; Natalie, 15, a cheerleader and junior at Stockdale High School; and Olivia, 8, a third grader at Highgate Elementary School.  

In 2021, the Rubio's made a big move to the Highgate neighborhood, a decision inspired by their desire for better opportunities for their children. “When we first moved in, there was just lots of dirt and one other family,” Jorge recalls. Over time, their extended family joined them in Highgate, creating a close-knit community with loved ones just around the corner. “We all invaded Highgate,” Jorge jokes.  

 

The Rubio's are proud parents who cherish their time together. Whether it is cheering on their daughters at events or hosting Sunday football gatherings, family is at the center of their lives. Jorge’s love for barbecuing has earned him the title of “backyard pit master,” and his Traeger smoker is his prized possession. “Last December, I attended a barbecue school in Texas with Matt Pittman from Meat Church,” he shares. “It was an incredible experience.”  

Their backyard, complete with a fire pit, swimming pool and spa, is a favorite spot for relaxing evenings. “We spend time wrapped in blankets, sitting around the fire pit, just talking,” Jorge says. It is a serene escape from their busy lives.  

 

Jorge and Irene’s lives are a whirlwind of activity, but they would not have it any other way. From Target runs and Drake concerts with their daughters to family trips paired with sports events, they make the most of every moment.  

 

“Our life feels like it’s moving at 100 million miles an hour,” Jorge admits, but the joy they find in their family and community keeps them grounded. With three dogs—Boston terriers Mason and Migo, and a French bulldog puppy they are still naming—their home is full of love and laughter.  

 

The Rubios are more than neighbors; they are an inspiration. Whether it’s Jorge’s resilience, Irene’s quiet strength, or their shared commitment to family, they remind us of the power of compassion and the importance of community. Helping others – whether those suffering a weather event or a client needing insurance – is what Jorge and Irene do best.   

 

When you see the Rubio family out and about, be sure to say hello. They would love to meet more friendly folks here in the neighborhood (and that means you!).