Career Roadmap
James's work combines: Business, Law, and Problem Solving
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Thousand Oaks High School
Bachelor's Degree
Business - Finance
San Diego State University
Graduate Degree
MBA
Villanova University
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators:
Bachelor's Degree: Business - Finance
Graduate Degree: MBA
Learn more about different paths to this career
Life & Career Milestones
I've taken a lot of twists and turns
1.
In 2009, I completed my bachelor's degree at San Diego State University with a focus in Business, Finance. I worked full time through college selling cell phones for T-Mobile.
2.
In 2010, I completed the Oxnard College Fire Academy with aspirations of joining the fire service. Budget cuts cancelled a job offer that was received in Southern CA.
3.
I started to explore careers in insurance and obtained an entry-level position with Workmen's Auto Insurance in Los Angeles in 2010.
4.
In 2011, I was hired as an outside property claim professional for Travelers in Southern California. My territory was primarily LA and Orange County, but was willing to assist wherever needed.
5.
Through hard work and continued development I was promoted to a property unit manager in the San Francisco Bay Area in 2013. Time spent there was one of great growth and personal development.
6.
In 2014, I transitioned back to LA and eventually made my way to the Denver, CO, office in 2016 as a unit manager. While there I assisted with Utah, New Mexico, Colorado and Nevada.
7.
In 2018, I was promoted to a director in Dallas, which is where I currently call home. My position and location changes have brought knowledge gains and challenges, and I wouldn't change a thing.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Society in general:
Claims can be a stressful and challenging career.
How I responded:
Claims is a challenging and exciting career. I found that by changing a negative mindset to a positive one, it will help you embrace any role that you take. Additionally, try to surround yourself with people who have a passion for what they do and like to "think outside the box."
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
I was the first in my family to receive a 4 year degree. I continued that drive into obtaining an MBA with Villanova University.