Prucha is a commercial account manager for Oregon-based Wheatland Insurance. She moved from Vancouver, Washington to Heppner, Oregon just over two years ago, when she signed on as an agent for Wheatland.
What makes your agency stand out from the competition?
Our company ends up doing really well because our customers stay longer. Because we’re an independent agency we write with multiple companies, and we write the best policy for the client, not necessarily who pays the best commission.
As an employee, I think Wheatland has been more than gracious. They make sure they take care of their agents. We constantly feel rewarded because they care about the work we’re doing, and they’re constantly right there telling you you’re doing a good job. It’s nice to have that appreciation.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Saving people money. When I get a customer who comes in and says “I have this terrible rate, what you can you do for me?” we’ll put them with another company… they see the savings and they get really excited. It’s nice knowing we’re providing people better coverage… and they’re not paying close to what they were paying before.
What do you do when you’re not at work?
I’m currently pregnant, so rest, usually. Otherwise, I volunteer a lot here in Heppner. Our company encourages us to be a part of the community, so they’re more than willing to allow us time outside of work to participate in community events. The fair and rodeo is this week, and I’ll be taking and selling tickets. We always have something going on in this town.
Where are your favorite vacation spots?
I do like going to visit my grandmother who lives in Port Angeles, Washington. It’s the perfect place. It doesn’t rain too much, it’s not too hot, not too cold, and you have the mountains there and the ocean.
