Nickole Duker, CIC
Nickole Duker, CIC, is a seasoned Commercial and Personal Lines Insurance Producer and Risk Consultant with more than 8 years of experience helping individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. Her career in sales began in high-end retail with The Buckle, where she developed a strong foundation in customer service, relationship management, and understanding client needs. She later transitioned into business and print marketing as an account executive, followed by grand format printing work supporting large companies and architectural firms throughout the Seattle area. These experiences strengthened her consultative sales approach and ability to translate complex solutions into clear, value-driven recommendations for clients.
In 2017, Nickole transitioned into the insurance industry after seeing an opportunity posted within community groups for a Farmers Insurance role that would provide licensing support. Since entering the insurance field, she has developed a strong passion for risk management and client advocacy. She recently earned her Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation through years of rigorous study and essay-style examinations, further enhancing her ability to provide strategic coverage guidance. In her current hybrid role, she both produces business and serves as a primary resource and trainer for agents across multiple offices. She specializes in commercial risk exposure, including complex coverage scenarios, and is committed to continuing education to ensure clients receive comprehensive and up-to-date protection.
Nickole is deeply committed to going beyond basic policy placement by providing true insurance counseling and advocacy. She works closely with clients throughout the claims process to ensure they fully understand their coverage before filing claims, rather than simply directing them to call center resources. Her professional mission is to help both her team and her clients succeed by making insurance simpler, more transparent, and more meaningful. Currently pursuing her business education at Western Governors University, Nickole combines academic learning with real-world experience to serve as a knowledgeable industry resource, community partner, and trusted advisor throughout the Greater Seattle Area.
• Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC)
• Sales Forecasting (2017)
• WGU Strategic Thinking & Innovation Certificate
• Insurance Agent (Health, Property, Casualty)
• Sales Management Certification
• Notary Public Commission
• Life and Health Producer License
• Western Governors University - BBA
• Featured as Young Professional in Midlands Business Journal (circa 2010)
• Risk Alliance
• Society of Certified Insurance Counselors
• BNI
• PTSO Social Media and Communications Manager at son's school
• Past volunteer work at Humane Society
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my real passion for technical knowledge and making sure everybody is covered well. Getting my Certified Insurance Counselor designation was a huge milestone for me - it took me a few years and lots of time and hard essay-style tests, but I did it, and I'm very excited to put those letters after my name because it really shows that I have a genuine commitment to understanding the complexities of insurance. I always try to go the extra mile and do the extra education to make sure that I'm covering my clients well, especially when dealing with commercial risks. I believe in being responsive to all my clients, counseling them through the claims process rather than just giving them an 800 number, and making sure they actually have the coverage before they file a claim. My goal is to be a resource for the whole team and help everybody be successful, both the staff and my clients.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that I can build a career I truly love while also making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. This perspective has shaped the way I approach my professional journey, reminding me that success is not only measured by achievements, but also by the impact I have on my clients, colleagues, and community. It motivates me to focus on service, education, and building genuine relationships, ensuring that the work I do provides real value and lasting protection for those I serve.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering this industry to know that they can absolutely build successful, rewarding careers in fields where they feel fulfilled and make a positive difference in the lives of others. Success is not just about titles or recognition, but about developing expertise, staying curious, and consistently showing up with integrity and confidence. I believe in investing in continuous learning, building strong professional relationships, and never underestimating the value of your perspective and voice in the workplace. Receiving recognition such as the Young Professional Award from the Midland Journal reinforced my belief that meaningful work and professional success can go hand in hand, and that you can thrive in an industry while staying true to the values that matter most to you.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Right now, my normal day is definitely being very responsive to all of my clients and continuing education, binding policies, and helping folks go through the claims process. As of now, it's been extra interesting because we're recently going through a merger, so things are in transition. We're currently Arnold Smith Insurance, but we're merging with Endzone, so I'm in a transition phase at work right now awaiting new opportunities. I've taken a break from my BNI group due to the merger, but I'm planning on going back once everything settles a little bit. It's definitely a time of change and adjustment as we navigate this merger process.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life center around helping others, building trust, and staying grounded in what truly matters. I am deeply passionate about making a positive difference in people’s lives through my work by providing guidance, education, and protection that gives clients and colleagues peace of mind. At the same time, I value balance and the importance of family, often finding joy in simple moments at home, such as enjoying a good movie night with loved ones. I truly believe that “home is where the heart is,” and that success is best measured not only by professional accomplishments, but also by the relationships and memories we build along the way.