This morning, as I sat down with my coffee and began outlining my upcoming speech for the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters, I couldn’t help but reflect on the journey that’s led me here. In just a few short weeks, I’ll be stepping into the role of President of NAPIA, a position that both humbles and inspires me.

I thought back to my very first NAPIA meeting — what it felt like to walk into that room, new to the profession but eager to learn. Now, years later, I find myself preparing to take the stage as president. No, I’m not going to give away my whole speech here (I’ll save that for the conference), but I do want to share some thoughts on what this moment means to me — and why I hope it resonates with every public adjuster in the room.

It’s Not About Me — It’s About Us

As I think about what I want my speech to represent, I keep coming back to one thing: this moment isn’t about me — it’s about all of us. I want every attendee, whether it’s their first conference or their fiftieth, to reflect on the impact this profession and this association have had on them.

Whether you’re a new public adjuster looking to learn, a dedicated board member, or a seasoned past president, I want you to leave this conference feeling inspired to do more for our industry — and reminded of why you joined in the first place. We, as public adjusters, are often the first and only line of defense for policyholders navigating complex insurance claims. The work we do matters — and the world needs more of us who do it the right way.

Three Values That Have Guided My Journey

I want my speech to highlight the core values that have shaped my career — not just so the audience knows who I am, but so they can reflect on how these same principles apply to their own growth. Here are the three I’ll be sharing

1. Passion — Your Why

If you’re in this field just to make money, you’re in the wrong business. There are easier ways to make a living. But if you’re in it because you care — because you believe in advocating for the underdog, in leveling the playing field, and in helping people rebuild their lives — then you have what it takes to be great.

For me, that passion was cemented early in my career. I’ll be sharing a story in my speech about one of my very first clients — a family who suffered a devastating fire loss. I still remember sitting at their dining table, helping them sort through their smoke-damaged belongings, trying to assign values to priceless, irreplaceable heirlooms. It wasn’t just about inventory. It was about grief, memory, and trust. That experience became the foundation of my “why.”

2. Relentless Commitment to Education

The claims environment is constantly evolving — changing laws, new technologies, complex software systems. If you’re not committed to continuing education, you will fall behind.

In my own career, I’ve pursued designations like the SPPA (Senior Professional Public Adjuster) sponsored by NAPIA, and the AIC (Associate in Claims), which offers deep insight into how claims are handled from the carrier’s side. I’ve also completed multiple construction and restoration certifications. These credentials didn’t just pad my résumé — they sharpened my skills, helped me advocate more effectively, and gave me confidence in the field.

3. Surrounding Yourself with the Best

You can’t grow in isolation. Being part of NAPIA has been one of the most meaningful decisions of my professional life. The relationships, mentorships, and friendships I’ve formed in this association have helped me become the public adjuster I am today.

Whether it was learning from industry veterans, leaning on colleagues during tough claims, or laughing with lifelong friends over dinner after a long conference day — this community has made me better. I’ve never forgotten that, and I never will.

A Moment of Gratitude

As I step into this new role, I’m also incredibly proud to represent something larger than myself — I’ll be the first Arizona public adjuster to serve as president of NAPIA. That honor carries weight, and I don’t take it lightly.

If this blog post sounds like the beginning of a speech — that’s because it is. But it’s also a thank you. To every public adjuster who’s come before me, and to every one of you continuing the fight today: keep showing up, keep learning, and keep standing up for those who need us most.

The best is yet to come.

– Justin Skipton
Vice President, Skipton & Associates
Slated President, NAPIA (2025–2026