From Classroom Advocacy to Energy Expertise: How Tonya Carrell Powers Client Success at Poms & Associates

“Success comes from hard work, dedication, and the willingness to go the extra mile.”

Tonya Carrell’s career journey from the classroom to Poms & Associates energy business is one of transformation—shifting from shaping young minds in the classroom to guiding businesses through the complexities of risk management.

Teachers often make exceptional insurance professionals, blending problem-solving, communication, and empathy to help clients navigate complex challenges. Tonya’s story is a testament to how skills honed in education can translate into success in business development Her background in teaching and labor advocacy laid the foundation for a thriving career in the energy sector, where she now helps clients navigate challenges and seize opportunities with confidence.

Advocacy for Teachers and Mastering Negotiation

Before becoming a Business Development Executive at Poms & Associates, Tonya taught high school math in Carlsbad, where she also led remedial math programs. When an anticipated raise was frozen due to budget constraints, she stepped into advocacy, joining the New Mexico Public School’s Insurance Authority (NMPSIA) as a representative for the National Education Association (NEA). Her work balancing budgets and championing pay increases laid the foundation for her future success in business development.

Encouraged by her friend Dave Poms, Tonya transitioned into the insurance industry. Drawing on her background in problem-solving and negotiation, she quickly established herself as a trusted advisor to her clients. Within six months of joining Poms & Associates, she had significantly contributed to the firm’s growth. By 2021, her efforts had generated $973,000 in revenue—a testament to her strategic approach and dedication to delivering value.

Turning Risks Into Results

Specializing in energy clients, Tonya applies a forward-thinking approach to risk management. In the trucking sector, where CAB reports are critical to underwriting decisions, she partnered with a DOT consulting firm to help clients optimize their risk profiles.

“We forward-think all the time,” she explains. “By addressing potential challenges before they impact coverage, we help clients secure more competitive rates and strengthen their long-term operational standing.”

Beyond traditional risk mitigation, Tonya provides a valuable service by managing contractor and supplier compliance programs for her clients. She oversees platforms such as ISNetworld, Veriforce, and several impactful drug testing portals, ensuring her clients remain compliant at all times. While these programs can be costly to maintain independently, “This is something I offer at no additional charge,” she says. “I find it to be a key differentiator that enhances my clients' operational efficiency, and something I’m extremely proud of.”

Balancing Grit and Grace

Success hasn’t come without sacrifices. As a single mother since 2007, Tonya has raised two daughters—now 18 and 25—while navigating a demanding career.

“My daughters have always come first,” she says, “but I’ve also shown them that hard work and dedication open doors. I lead by example and support my team with the same philosophy—I would never ask them to do something I wouldn’t do myself.”

With regular travel from Ohio to Carlsbad, Tonya balances her career and personal life with intention. An avid golfer, she values time on the course as a way to recharge and maintain perspective.

“With a seven-hour commute, balance is essential,” she notes. “But no matter where I am, my clients and team are my priority.”

Building the Next Generation of Industry Leaders

Tonya’s commitment to growth extends beyond her own success. As a mentor to new producers at Poms & Associates, she plays an active role in weekly sales meetings and partners with colleagues to help them gain practical experience.

“I enjoy helping new producers build their confidence and skills,” she says. “By involving them in client meetings and sharing real-world insights, I guide them toward delivering meaningful value to their clients.”

Leading the Charge

Looking ahead, Tonya is enthusiastic about the future of insurance and risk management. She believes that Poms & Associates stands out by offering comprehensive solutions that go beyond traditional coverage.

“Poms is a risk management company that happens to sell insurance,” she explains. “We help middle-market clients navigate industry challenges in a way that most brokerages can’t. Our ability to deliver integrated solutions sets us apart.”

Tonya Carrell’s career reflects a commitment to excellence, innovation, and long-term success. With her unique blend of advocacy, leadership, and industry expertise, she continues to shape the future of Poms & Associates and the clients she serves.