Hello, I’m Edna Perkins, an Employee Benefits Agent and Human Resources Consultant for Midwest Select Insurance Group (MSIG). I’ve been down many roads in my career, and I’m grateful they led me to a role where helping people is at the heart of what I do.
I began my journey as a Benefits and Safety Coordinator for Cummins Engine and Owens Corning. It was during this time that I met Chris Dooley, Steve Scullion, and Dan Barnum of MSIG, then my voluntary benefits agents. When they presented to my employees, they did so with such enthusiasm and genuine enjoyment of their work that I decided I wanted to do what they did. And here I am, years later, working side-by-side with them and truly loving what I do every day.
A Structured Approach to Service:
My week is carefully planned with each day addressing a facet of our business to ensure our clients are provided with top-notch service. I begin each week by going to market with renewals for products such as Health, Dental, Vision, Short-Term Disability, Life/AD&D, Accident, Critical Illness, and Identity Protection. Once proposals are received, I analyze coverage and premiums to make sure clients are getting the best options available.
Of course, challenges arise in any business, but my focus is always on addressing and resolving issues quickly and effectively. My favorite part of the week, however, is enrollments. At MSIG, we go beyond just meeting employees at Open Enrollment each year. We provide added support by meeting individually with new employees, helping them understand their benefits and select plans that truly meet their needs and their family’s needs.
We manage all aspects of enrollment from carrier submissions and terminations to auditing invoices and integrating benefit platforms with direct carrier feeds. This allows me to not only support employers but also connect directly with employees, building relationships that make this work so meaningful.
Creativity in Action:
Outside of benefits consulting, I have a creative side that I try to bring to my work and community. I love to write, paint, and even do graphic design. For 12 years, I produced the Wisconsin Taxidermy Association’s Insight Magazine and created marketing materials for a Christian women’s group that provides motivational speakers. At MSIG, I apply that same creativity when developing employee handbooks for our clients, ensuring they’re not only informative but also engaging (I believe all sides of my brain are being used!).
Leadership & Community Engagement:
Professional and personal growth are always encouraged at MSIG, which has given me opportunities to expand my leadership skills. I currently serve as an Ambassador for the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce and previously served on its Board of Directors as Vice President, President, and Past President. These roles have been both enriching and inspiring, allowing me to give back to my community.
The Best Part – Relationships:
What I value most about my career at MSIG is the freedom it provides not just financially, but in the time it gives me to share with family, friends, and clients. Many of the individuals I’ve helped over the years remain in touch even after moving on from their jobs. Those relationships and the experiences they bring are what make this life so grand – Life is Good!
About the Author
Based in the Menomonie area, Edna Perkins brings 20+ years of experience in employee benefits and human resources to MSIG. Her career began in handling internal benefits and safety coordination before transitioning into consulting, where she now helps businesses and employees navigate everything from health and dental coverage to life insurance and voluntary benefits.
Edna is known for her structured approach to service, her dedication to building lasting relationships, and her creative problem-solving skills. She also gives back to her community as an Ambassador and past President of the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce. When she’s not supporting clients, Edna enjoys writing, painting, and spending time with family and friends.
