Engle Martin’s Women’s Empowerment Network (WEN) is excited to take part in Women’s History Month! Women’s History Month is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture, and society. It has been observed annually in the month of March in the United States since 1987. This year’s theme for Women’s History Month is “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope” which recognizes the insurmountable ways that women, of all cultures, have provided both healing and hope throughout history.EVERY woman has a story to tell and gifts to share with the world. This month, join us each week, as we recognize outstanding women, both inside and outside of our organization, for #WENWednesday!

This week, we learn about Rebecca Spitz, Senior Property Adjuster.

What is your role at Engle Martin?

I am a Senior Property Adjuster based out of Albuquerque, New Mexico. I have been with Engle Martin since November 2017.

This year, the theme of Women’s History Month is “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope”. How does that resonate with you?

This year’s theme, “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope” go hand in hand. I think we should all work together to encourage those that are encountering difficulties. With the global issues that we have been facing over the last couple of years, we need hope that tomorrow will be better so that healing can begin. As a woman, I strive to convey a message of hope to the people in my life both personally and professionally, and I am proud to inspire and motivate others for women’s history month.

Who is the most influential woman you know?  How does she inspire you?

The most influential woman in my life is my mother. She was born in New York and moved to New Mexico on her own in 1976 at the age of 25. While creating her life in New Mexico, she continued her education and earned her Master’s in Education Administration. She was the first Resource Educator of the Navajo Reservation and became the Coordinator of Special Education Services within the Eastern Navajo Agency, Bureau of Indian Affairs. During her time in this role, she made many impactful and positive changes before retiring. She was extremely involved and supported numerous scholastic events throughout the community. In 1993, my mother started a non-profit which provided food, gifts, and clothing to families in need in the Four Corners area. We speak almost daily, and she continues to encourage me to meet my goals, better my life, and career. She is a literal trailblazer.

Overcoming Barriers

I work in a male dominated field and there can be times when I am underestimated due to my gender. It is important to communicate that I am fully qualified for my role both for myself and other women in the workplace. I have overcome barriers by continuing my professional development, by being confident in what I know, and by not being afraid to ask questions when I am unsure. I am proud to work with a company that is inclusive and supportive of women in this industry.

What is the most important piece of advice you have been given?

Treat others the way you want to be treated.

What is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about a career in the insurance industry?

A career in this field requires you to be proactive, to hold your ground, and to speak up. Do not let others treat you differently because of your gender and demonstrate to anyone that you can do the job you have been hired to do.