Steve Trott, Founder & CEO

Steve began his career in the insurance industry as an underwriter for one of the largest insurance companies in the world. As an underwriter Steve brings a unique perspective to his clients. He is able to analyze a benefits package by utilizing the skills learned as an underwriter and then develop a course of action that includes developing rates, identifying trends that may be occurring and providing solutions to problems before they become unmanageable. His unparalleled ability to correct and identify runaway expenses in a plan before they occur helps the client avoid potential exposures.

Steve's specialty is fully & partially self-insured plans. With nearly 20 years of experience specializing in employee benefits, he rarely comes across situations that he hasn't encountered. This unique approach has made Steve one of the most respected large group consultants in California. Steve's knowledge of self-funded plans has also extended into claims adjudication and consulting when necessary.

He has been retained on many occasions to assist in fixing a program designed by other consulting companies that have either imploded or become insolvent. As the lead Consultant, Steve brings a broad base of knowledge and sensitivity to each client. His breadth of experience includes plan design, implementation, pricing and management of self-funded and fully insured plans. Steve has extensive experience working with third party administrators (TPA), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO) and Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO).Steve's background provides valuable insight into the inner workings of the marketplace, insurance companies and provider networks.

His clients are kept abreast of the constant changes in employee benefits. By recommending cost containment options as appropriate, his clients are assured of receiving controlled renewal increases as warranted by actual claims experience; not what the carrier thinks they can pass off to you.

Collective bargaining is often a sensitive area that requires experience and objectivity. Steve has considerable experience providing objective information to clients and their employees to ensure that all parties' needs are met.

Steve was raised in Butte County. After attending college and working as an insurance underwriter, Steve brought his family home to Chico, Ca. Recognizing an overwhelming need for competent and informed benefits consultants,

Steve founded Almond Valley Insurance Services, Inc. AVI Services, Inc has been the recipient of multiple industry awards as well as Steve being awarded some of the industries highest awards. Steve has been recognized by the "Who's Who" in the insurance industry on multiple occasions as well as participating on the Senate Advisory Committee on Health Care for the state of California.

Steve has also sat on numerous advisory councils for Health Insurance providers and is a member of the National Association of Health Underwriters, Self-Insurance Institute of America, and International Foundation for Employee Benefits Plans and is very active in his local community.