PIA Montana’s Agent & Company Person of the Year

Tina Wood of Wood Enterprises in Joplin is the PIA Montana’s agent of the year and John Stoesser with Ideal Ag and Marine is the association’s company person of the year.

They were presented with the awards at last week’s annual PIA Montana conference at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort in Fairmont, Montana.

The Agent of the Year Award is the PIA’s way of saying thank you and recognizing that special individual whose accomplishments exemplify the best qualities an independent insurance agent can possess integrity, dedication and commitment to the members and goals of the PIA. As an organization, we offer no greater recognition than the PIA Agent of the Year.

Tina Wood has impressed the association as much as she has impressed the community in which she lives. Research by Weekly Industry News found her to have served on, or is still serving on, just about every board and organization in her area.

With what is described as a non-stop personality, that’s not surprising. She’s a go-to person who not only serves, but very often is sought out because she has great ideas, and the ability to make them reality.

Plus, she remembers all those little things that need to be done.

Like the people in Joplin and the surrounding area, her clients love her, too. Tina’s turnover ratio since starting at her agency in 1991 and then buying it in 1993 is close to ZERO.

A big plus for the independent agents of Montana is that Tina is going to have a lot of influence on the Montana chapter of the PIA as the organization’s chairperson. She took the helm at this year’s conference.

Each year PIA members benefit from the contributions of time, money and expertise

that come from our insurance company partners. In recognition of those contributions, the PIA honors one individual whose active involvement with PIA helps drive their company to support our efforts with our members.

Like the most successful people in our industry, John Stoesser not only values relationships but he values the industry to which he has devoted his life. He has an encyclopedia-like knowledge of the history of this business and how its products benefit his clients and their clients.

That’s why he’s so valued by all who know and work with him.

One person who responded to our inquiries about him — and after remarking about being in the business as long as John — said, “What John has done over his entire career, and I have enjoyed also, is the application of Insurance principles that have not been wiped out by automation or other economic forces.  Evaluating and pricing risks for our clients as well as balancing the results for our Insurance Carriers and Partners has created timeless value to all involved.”

His co-workers sent us lots of messages about how much John is loved.

One had a great anecdote about when she was hired.

“One of my favorite memories with John is when we had lunch at my interview. I had to bring my newborn baby along. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a delightful look on the man’s face as he held my baby for me through most of the interview!”

Another said, “He always seems to have an anecdote or timely piece of good advice!  He is so kindhearted and I couldn’t think of a more deserving person for this award.” Neither can we.