Women in Claims Spotlight: Katrina Fajardo, Senior Property Adjuster

Meet Katrina Fajardo, our Senior Property Adjuster based in the Los Angeles, California office. With over seven years of experience in claims adjusting, Katrina excels in handling commercial and homeowner property claims, emphasizing empathy and client understanding in her approach. Her dedication to staying current with industry trends and supporting women in the field makes her a valuable asset to our team.

Q: How long have you been an adjuster, and how long have you been with Engle Martin?

Katrina Fajardo: I have been a property adjuster for just over seven years. I joined Engle Martin in October 2023, continuing to build on my skills and expertise in the field.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in claims adjusting with Engle Martin?

Katrina Fajardo: My career began as a property adjuster for insurance carriers. With the constant changes in the insurance industry, I wanted to expand my knowledge by exploring the independent adjusting side, which led me to Engle Martin.

Q: What types of claims do you typically handle, and how do you tailor your approach to meet each client’s needs?

Katrina Fajardo: I typically handle both commercial and homeowner property claims, with a focus on commercial property claims that include restaurants, HOA properties, banks, medical facilities, offices, and retail stores. When I receive a claim, I make sure to have a detailed conversation with the client before the inspection to ensure I fully understand their expectations. While many claims may involve similar perils, each client’s specific needs and expectations can vary.

Q: How do you balance the technical side of claims adjusting with the importance of empathy when helping people during difficult times?

Katrina Fajardo: We’re often called upon during some of the most challenging moments in people’s lives, so it’s important to put myself in their shoes and approach situations with empathy. Showing compassion helps the insured or client feel heard and understood, which can make a significant difference in their experience.

Q: How do you stay ahead of industry trends to better support and deliver value to clients?

Katrina Fajardo: Adapting to the ever-evolving insurance landscape is key. I stay current by familiarizing myself with new technologies and platforms that enhance my work, which ultimately leads to greater efficiency and value for the clients we serve.

Q: What advice would you give to women looking to enter the insurance industry as an adjuster?

Katrina Fajardo: Build a strong support network of female peers and mentors in the industry that will provide encouragement, guidance, and support. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Equal opportunities and promoting diversity can help pave the way for leadership roles and prepare you for the barriers in the field.

For more information, please email: info@englemartin.com