Learn more now at kaia. com / yak •
FEATURE and a sense of belonging within a larger industry community. Now that my mentor has retired and industry changes have unfolded, I realize how vital YAK has been in my journey. Had I not been part of YAK from the beginning, I might not have had a trusted network to seek advice, share experiences, or find understanding."
Brock Elliott, Elliott Group: " Being involved with the Young Agents of Kansas has been one of the most impactful parts of my career. It gave me a seat at the table early on – not just to learn from some of the best minds in the industry, but to build relationships that turned into real opportunities. It pushed me to get uncomfortable in the best way – whether that meant speaking in front of a room, going to D. C. to advocate for our industry, or stepping into leadership roles I thought I had no business being in.
The networking alone is invaluable, but what really changed the game for me was the sense of purpose. Being part of something bigger than just my agency gave me perspective and lit a fire to contribute to the industry, not just work in it."
WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO OTHER YOUNG INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS ABOUT WAYS TO GROW IN THE INDUSTRY OTHER THAN CE?
Elliott: " Go to events, shake hands, ask questions. Join committees – even if you don’ t know what you’ re doing at first. That’ s how you learn. Find a mentor, or better yet, a group of peers who push you. Get involved in your state association or local groups.
Those relationships will open more doors than any class ever will. The people who grow fastest in this business are the ones who are curious, humble, and willing to raise their hand when others stay quiet. Be that person."
Marsicek: " Get involved in industry groups like Young
Agents or local insurance associations. It’ s a great way to build relationships, learn from others’ experiences, and get exposure to parts of the industry you might not see in your day-to-day job. Also, find a mentor you can lean on for advice – someone you can call with questions or talk through challenges. And finally, step outside your comfort zone by volunteering for committees and attending conferences. Those realworld experiences can be just as impactful for your growth as formal continuing education."
Hundley: " Networking, but not just showing up. If you are going to attend an event, be involved in it, interact, build relationships, and ask questions. Relationships – In a world of e-communication. Build relationships – with other agents, with clients, with friends – make the phone call, write a letter, and show up.
“ now that my mentor has retired and industry changes have unfolded, I realize how vital YAK has been in my journey."
YOUNG AGENTS OF KANSAS
The Young Agents of Kansas( YAK) was developed to help industry professionals learn more about the insurance business, gain confidence, share ideas, and build a network of support within the industry.
The group regularly plans social activities and serves as a touch-point for young agents at KAIA conferences and events in order to help new attendees get to know each other.
Learn more now at kaia. com / yak •
JULY / AUGUST 2025
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