Farmers Insurance opens 120,000-square-foot training complex

NEW CAMPUS-Farmers Insurance Group executives dedicate the University of Farmers', a new company training campus in Agoura. From left, Thomas Brown, chairman of the trucking exchange board of governors; Bim Braddock, fire insurance company board chairman; Martin Feinstein, former board chairman and CEO; Gary McCarter, Farmers board chairman; and CEO Paul Hopkins. The Farmers Insurance Group's new 120,000-square-foot training facility, The University of Farmers', was dedicated at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 3 at 30801 Agoura Hills Road, Agoura Hills.

The University of Farmers' will be the training headquarters for thousands of Farmers' agents and employees, both new and experienced. The original training facility started in March 2004 at the LAX Hilton, said Farmers CEO Paul Hopkins, adding, "After testing the effectiveness of the original facility successfully, we made a decision to expand the University of Farmers' to Agoura Hills."

The university includes a Claims School and Agency Force

School, both of which are full service training and development organizations which design, develop and deliver insurance curriculums.

The claims and agent training facilities have 20 state-of-the-art classrooms, including a two-story full-sized mock house which will provide participants with hands-on training, video feedback skillpractice rooms and a mock auto bay that can house up to 20 damaged automobiles. The curriculum is tailored to meet the needs and goals of agents and managers.

The university facility also houses the Martin D. Feinstein Center for Professional Development, providing additional learning opportunities and study tools.