Here at Inszone, one of our missions is to make sure that every employee is appreciated, acknowledged, and recognized for their achievements. This Employee Spotlight series aims to celebrate success and highlight the talented individuals we have at Inszone. This month, please join us in congratulating Ann Pederson, our Employee Spotlight for the month of March!
Ann Pederson is a Senior Commercial Insurance Specialist at Inszone Insurance Services, joining Inszone in November 2021 after the merger with Stromsoe Insurance Agency.
At age 14 Ann began working and has a long background in sales and customer service. In 2013, while working as a Personnel Specialist in the US Air Force National Guard, she received her Bachelor of Finance degree.
In 2016, Ann transitioned her professional career to the insurance industry. In her current role as a Senior Commercial Insurance Specialist, Ann’s customer service reputation is unbeatable, while her number one priority has been to provide her customers with affordable insurance options. Since joining Inszone, Ann’s focus has been on building great relationships with our clients, and we could not be more grateful to have her on our team.
Outside of the office, Ann is a proud mother of three kids – Matthew 13, Kody – 13, and Alyssa – 12. Her fiancé, Greg, is an Active-Duty Navy NCO, and they enjoy visiting area businesses for food and fun. They also support veteran-focused groups and non-profits. Ann has sat on the board of directors for the Veterans Business Action Committee, Military Affairs Committee for Inland Empire, and has also started a Veterans Beer Club in her local area.
When asked to share some words about Ann, Trent Julian, who is one of Inszone’s Commercial Sales Team Manager and Ann’s direct supervisor, said, “Ann is extremely bright and someone who catches on very quickly. She also is highly motivated to learn and grow as a professional. She cares deeply about her clients and the service she provides them. Her reputation in the area is highly regarded and this leaves no doubt Ann will be a top performer throughout her career.”
To get to know Ann a little better, we asked her a couple of questions about herself and her time in the insurance world. Here is what she had to say:
Q: Tell us about your start in the insurance industry?
A: I started working in the insurance industry after moving to California seven years ago. After 15 years in the restaurant industry, I decided that it was time for a career change so in 2016 I made the switch to insurance, and I have never looked back.
Q: What has been one of your proudest moments in the insurance world?
A: When I was able to insure a company that makes bullet proof vests. I thought it would be impossible, but it was one of my “easier quotes”. Also, anytime I save money for a client, it feels good to help them add more cash flow to their business.
Q: If you were not in insurance, what would you like to be doing?
A: Because I have a degree in financial planning, I would be working in finance.
Q: What is your career goal?
When I was working for the US Air Force National Guard, my career goal was to be given the title of Supreme Commander, but after joining the insurance industry, I realized I would like to settle in and manage my own insurance branch. This would also allow me the opportunity to help more individuals and business owners with their insurance needs.
Q: If you could sit down with your younger self, what is one piece of advice you would share?
A: Don’t swerve for animals while driving and you will save yourself a lot of money.
Q: What’s something you do outside of work that would surprise your co-workers and clients?
A: I was trained as a first responder, so I have given first aid and CPR to over a dozen strangers. If someone is hurt or needs help, I will be the first one running in their direction. I believe that there was a reason I was where I was when… A short trip to a restaurant turned into helping someone going into diabetic shock before the ambulance came. A walk with friends, turned into helping a man who fell out of his wheelchair in the middle of the road. A quick run around the park turned into helping someone give CPR to a person who collapsed while playing basketball.
Q: What quote keeps you inspired in your day-to-day life?
A: “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” – Maya Angelou, and “Things work out best for those who make the best of how things work out.” – John Wooden
Juan Cruz
