Young Agent Spotlight: Holley Smart

This month’s Young Agent Spotlight features InsurAcademy alum Holley Smart, Account Executive at NCAIA, sharing her perspective on building a career in insurance and the experiences that led her into the industry.

During the interview, Holley discusses what sparked her transition from retail into insurance, the types of accounts she’s currently working on, and memorable experiences that have stood out throughout her career. She also reflects on the skills she brought from previous roles, explores technology and trends shaping the industry, and offers helpful advice for young agents entering the field today.

Understanding Insurance Industry Relationships with iNAP

iNAP (New Agent Power Hour) is back on June 22^nd at 2:00pm for another open discussion-style virtual session designed specifically for young agents to connect, learn from one another, and share real-world experiences in a collaborative setting.

This month’s conversation will focus on insurance industry dynamics and relationships, including navigating carrier, broker, and captive relationships within the industry. Facilitated by Andrew Mastromanolis, the session will provide an opportunity for young agents to ask questions, gain perspective from peers, and better understand how these industry relationships impact agency success and professional growth.

Whether you’re newer to the industry or looking to broaden your understanding of the insurance landscape, this is a great opportunity to join the conversation and connect with fellow young professionals.

iLEAD Goes Behind the Scenes at NC State’s Nuclear Reactor Facility

A great group of young agents joined iLEAD at NC State’s Nuclear Reactor Facility for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at risk management in action in April. Attendees explored complex risk environments, learned more about nuclear liability and the evolution of coverage, and earned 2 hours of CE credit during this unique experience. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this one-of-a-kind tour and networking opportunity!

A Day in Court: Recapping the iLEAD Mock Trial

iLEAD recently hosted an engaging and interactive E&O Mock Trial at the IIANC office in Cary, bringing real-world agency exposures to life in a courtroom-style setting. A huge thank you to the iLEAD committee members who stepped into acting roles for the skit and did an incredible job making the experience both educational and memorable for attendees. A special thank you to Annette Ardler and the Swiss Re team for their expertise, partnership, and participation in helping bring this event together!

Thanks to attendee participation, the event also raised $475 for A Place at the Table, a Raleigh nonprofit helping address food insecurity in the local community. We appreciate everyone who joined us in supporting both professional development and a meaningful local cause.

GIVE Back During GIVE Week (June 1-10)

Looking for a simple way to get involved and make an impact during GIVE Week? This year’s National Young Agents GIVE Week encourages agencies and young agents to support local communities through service, donations, and outreach - and one easy way to participate is through a “Pop Tabs for a Purpose” campaign supporting Ronald McDonald House programs.

Ronald McDonald House Charities collects aluminum pop tabs from soda and other beverage cans as part of a fundraiser that helps support families staying at their houses during medical treatment for a child. Start collecting tabs around your office now, then mail them to IIANC and we’ll send one combined package on behalf of North Carolina Young Agents during GIVE Week. Want to make it more fun? Turn it into a friendly office competition to see who can collect the most tabs!

Want more GIVE Week ideas for your agency or team? Join the National Young Agents Resource Roundtable tomorrow, May 20^th at 2:00pm to hear engagement ideas, ask questions, and learn how young agents across the country are getting involved.

Help Protect the Future of Independent Agents

The decisions made in Raleigh directly impact independent agents across North Carolina - from regulations to the future of our business model. Supporting iPAC helps IIANC build and strengthen relationships with elected officials who shape the policies affecting your agency, clients, and career. Your contribution helps ensure independent agents continue to have a strong voice where it matters most.