State Farm Insurance has been a household name for the past 100 years. Locally, our area was well served by agent Rob Michael until his retirement in 2020. His impressive client list was then split between two new agents, including Andy Nelson of Parsons, WV.
Andy apprenticed with State Farm from 2018 to 2020 and was honored to open his own insurance agency in Garrett County in early 2021. Not only was he tasked with opening a new business, but he also did so during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
He was fortunate enough to work with two of Rob’s former employees, licensed insurance agent Shelley Wilt, who has eleven years of experience in the insurance industry, and receptionist Tammy Whitaker, who worked with Rob for seven years.
It was a year-long learning experience for all of them, but, despite the obstacles, they were able to service their clients, both old and new, and maintain the level of customer care that is synonymous with the State Farm name.
“I have a fantastic team,” says Andy. I cannot ask for better co-workers than these two.” They are also assisted by Andy’s wife Dora Nelson, who fills in when needed.
Because Andy grew up in the region, he is very familiar with Garrett County and is excited to continue Rob’s legacy and offer sound, friendly customer service.
Services offered by Andy’s State Farm office include auto and homeowners insurance and life insurance, as well as renters, business, and pet insurance. They can also insure ATVs, RV’s, and more. “We sell every type of insurance imaginable – if you own it, we can probably insure it,” says Andy.
Andy and Shelley are licensed in Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. They can bundle all your homes and properties within the three-state area to save you even more money. Of course, the more items you insure, the greater the discount. They also offer financial and estate planning services.
One of the benefits of dealing with a local agency is expertise and customer service. While more and more businesses require their customers to sign up for services online, Andy prefers his clients to call him directly. “While a lot of information may be on our website, a quick phone call can answer your questions more quickly, and we can be sure you get every discount you are qualified for,” explains Andy.
Because both Shelly and Tammy worked with Rob, there is a continuity of service for everyone involved. “Call us. You’ll always talk to the same three or four people,” says Andy. Tammy agrees. “We know and understand your issues, and we’ll answer any questions you may have,” she says. Shelly adds, “Customer service built this business. Our biggest goal is to keep this a good place to work for our staff and to serve our clients. Our goal is for each of our clients to have a good, friendly experience whenever they call.” They are also happy to talk with those who are newly insured or looking for new options.
In addition to good customer service, Andy works hard to foster an excellent working atmosphere within the office. While the past year may have been more complicated than they expected, Andy and his team have kept their sense of humor and playfulness intact. If you spend time in the office, you can expect a visit from Umbreon, the office cat, who is always ready for an ear rub, or you can greet the office fish. Yes, the two get along well.
“Andy is a good communicator,” says Tammy. There is a lot of respect in this office, and we can talk to him about anything that comes up.”
Like their predecessor, Andy, Shelley, and Tammy are all about giving back to the community. They have plans to participate in several local events in the coming months and are open to the sponsorship of sports teams and other community events.
The Andy Nelson State Farm Insurance Agency is located at 13179 Garrett Highway, Suite C, directly across from the Wal-Mart entrance. The office is open Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on weekends by appointment. Give them a call at (301)859-4040 today and let Andy and his highly qualified team help you “manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize your financial dreams.”
Written by Linda Carr