Veterans come to Farm Bureau with leadership skills that are unmatched, as well as a strong work ethic and a passion for service. We honor these two hometown heroes who transitioned from serving their country to serving their communities by entering the insurance industry. Read about their background and why they feel insurance is the right fit for them.
Brad Stimmel, Agent in Iowa City
When did you serve our country?
I served in the Marines between 1993–1999.
What made you want to become an insurance agent after serving?
Growing up, my father was in the insurance business. Watching how he helped people within the community and seeing the success he had as an insurance agent made me decide to take the same path.
How does serving your country and serving your community relate?
The United States is unique among nations, and we should strive to make sure the values that make our country strong and great are honored. Insurance agents carry out these values everyday at a local level in the communities we serve by protecting those around us with the support of insurance policies.
What skills did you learn while serving that help you as an insurance agent?
Perseverance and a sense of duty are useful skills for both experiences. Farm Bureau insurance agents should always think about ways to serve more members of their communities and should be determined and patient when trying to gain new potential clients.
What do you enjoy about being an insurance agent at Farm Bureau?
Becoming an insurance agent allows you to be your own boss and enjoy great independence in your business choices. Additionally, it’s all about helping people and having the ability to make a great living while doing it.
Roger Robinson, District Manager in Iowa
When did you serve our country?
I served in the Navy from 1988–1992. I was in the first Gulf War and worked on the Flight Deck of the USS Wasp where I was a plank owner and directed aircraft on the flight deck.
What made you want to become an insurance agent after serving?
I’ve always enjoyed helping people and thought the insurance business was a great way to do so.
What appealed to you to join Farm Bureau?
Farm Bureau appealed to me because I grew up and worked on farms as a kid in northwest Iowa. My friend called me one day asking if he could give my name out to the Farm Bureau District Manager about becoming an agent. I guess the rest is history.
How does serving your country and serving your community relate?
When I was in the Navy, I didn’t realize it really is a selfless act – I thought it was something I just wanted to do. It’s the same with helping your community; you do it because it’s who you are. Serving just comes naturally, and it gives me a strong sense of accomplishment.
Both teach you that if you do the right thing the right things will happen to you. There’s nothing better than helping a client with their needs and seeing that when an issue comes up, the client has the coverage they need.
What skills did you learn while serving that help you as an insurance agent?
I learned discipline, grit and that your best can always be better.
What do you enjoy about being a Farm Bureau District Manager?
As a manager, I love helping people become successful in something they love to do. In my current position, I also I enjoy helping agents see the value they bring to their communities.
Learn How to Become a Farm Bureau Insurance Agent
Farm Bureau agents are dedicated to serving their communities and helping their client/members through whatever life may bring. If that appeals to you, connect with the District Manager in your area to hear more about what this opportunity would mean for you professionally and financially.