BRENDA McDERMOTT AIC, ARM, CPCU, SCLA, CIIP, CLP, AIDA
As a member of the Executive Committee, how would you ensure that your leadership decisions and priorities actively advance this value proposition across the entire organization?”
Brenda’s Answer to the Candidate Question
IAIP has shaped my career and my closest professional relationships. From the moment I walked into my first meeting, They Had Me at Hello. That instant connection is something many members haven’t experienced as locals and councils have disbanded. As a member of the Executive Committee, my priority would be creating that “you had me at hello” moment—because connection is fundamental to everything IAIP is.
Advancing Education That Builds Careers
Education has always been IAIP’s heartbeat. Confidence While Communicating advanced my career by strengthening essential skills—communication, critical thinking, and problem‑solving. Our designation programs give members the soft‑skill training and professionalism that open doors.
Today, too many new professionals start their career without the foundational knowledge needed to succeed. I would champion short, accessible videos and courses that fill that gap—insurance basics, career pathways, and skills that build confidence and satisfaction in the industry. And as AI reshapes insurance, IAIP must lead. We can integrate AI into CWC and develop education on ethical, legal, and effective use of AI to ensure our members’ career resilience.
Building Strong, Dynamic Communities
Engagement begins with connection. Even without locals, we can create modern “hello moments” from members first interactions. I would strengthen digital communities, leverage our new website, and tailor our message around the value of our “community”.
We lose corporate members when corporate memberships lapse. Let’s explore selling training materials and having IAIP members present classes—creating connection, visibility, and belonging. And we must remain relevant to retired and late‑career members, who are invaluable mentors, instructors, and guides for the next generation.
Developing Leaders and Delivering Exceptional Resources
Leadership development is essential to IAIP’s future. Many regions struggle to find members ready to step up. I would champion mentorship, job‑shadowing, and clear WIIFM communication so members feel prepared and supported. When they step forward, we must create a welcoming, energizing “hello moment” that inspires them to stay engaged and share their talents.
My commitment is simple: every decision I make will strengthen IAIP’s value, elevate our members, and ensure we remain the Association of Choice for the next generation.
Brenda’s Resume & Experience
Brenda McDermott is a Region V Member at Large whose IAIP journey spans both Region VII and Region V. She has held every local office except treasurer, served as Missouri Council Director three times, and led Region V as Regional Vice President (2009–2010). Her regional leadership includes serving as Regional MAL Director (2017–2018), Regional Marketing Director (2021–2025), and Assistant to the Region V RVP (2023–2025). She continues to support IAIP’s visibility as Chair of the Marketing & Publications Task Force and since last fall as the administrator for IAIP’s Facebook and LinkedIn pages.
Brenda is a Certified IAIP Instructor and a seasoned presenter at both Regional and International levels, including multiple Community Cafés. She is a frequent contributor to the Today’s Insurance Professional blog, and at recent International Conventions, she’s been the photographer capturing IAIP’s convention moments.
She was:
- 2002 International Rookie of the Year
- 2002 Claims Professional of the Year
- 2013 International CWC Speak-Off Winner
- 2023 International Risk Management Professional of the Year
Professionally, Brenda has spent 26 years with The Hartford, serving in multiple roles and currently working in the Workers’ Compensation Major Case Unit, where she handles complex and catastrophic claims across multiple jurisdictions. As a senior member of the team, she provides training, jurisdictional guidance, and mentorship to new field adjusters and her team’s AI champion.
Outside of IAIP and work, Brenda proudly celebrates her Kansas City roots, shares her photography exhibits, and if you follow her on Facebook, you’ve seen her three hearts- William, Gavin and Felix and traveled along on the Gig and Gav Road Trips.