Dec 20, 2017

PIACT past President Russell appointed to task force to improve insurance industry's workforce

HARTFORD, CONN.—Professional Insurance Agents of Connecticut Inc. past President Augusto Russell, CIC, has been appointed to a General Assembly task force to improve the insurance industry workforce in Connecticut. He was appointed by Sen. Len Fasano, R-34, the Senate Republican President Pro Tempore. Russell is a principal with Insurance Provider Group, Wethersfield, Conn.

Russell presented testimony in March of this year in support of the legislation (S.B.989/Special Act No. 17-10), which created the task force. In his testimony, Russell said: "As an association supported by members, we strive to assist our members with many issues pertaining to their agencies and businesses. The most reoccurring issue our members reach out to us for tips and advice on is recruiting and retaining talented independent insurance agents. Our members continue to express frustration in this area."

"Perpetuation is an issue that continues to affect professional, independent insurance agencies," said PIACT President Ken Distel. "PIACT and Augusto have continued to advocate for ways to encourage the next generation of insurance professionals to join this essential, rewarding and lucrative industry."

The perpetuation of the insurance industry was a keystone issue of Russell’s PIACT presidency in 2013-14. During his term, Russell helped to establish a collaborative effort with Goodwin College to provide training and education for students to explore pathways to rewarding careers in the insurance field. PIACT also offers members’ access to its Agency Staffing Assistance Program, which helps members recognize, recruit and train good employees.

Russell and the other members of the task force will conduct a study on the methods of developing, expanding and improving the insurance industry workforce in Connecticut by evaluating and analyzing the status of the state’s workforce in the industry; reviewing the employment needs of the industry; and developing methods of expanding and improving the industry’s workforce.

PIACT is a trade association representing professional, independent insurance agencies and their employees throughout the state.

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