NAU Country is proud to announce that two of its respected leaders, Bill Wilson and Jim Korin, were recognized

with prestigious awards at the National Crop Insurance Services (NCIS) 2026 conference, honoring their outstanding contributions to the crop insurance industry.

NAU Country Senior Vice President of Underwriting Bill Wilson received the NCIS Leadership Award, recognizing his exceptional leadership, technical expertise, and long-standing service to the industry. Bill began his career in crop insurance in 1990 and has built a reputation as one of the industry’s most trusted and knowledgeable underwriting experts. At NAU Country, he is widely regarded as the go-to authority on underwriting standards, Risk Management Agency (RMA) guidelines, and Standard Reinsurance Agreement (SRA) details.

Bill’s leadership extends well beyond his day-to-day role. He actively serves on the NCIS Underwriting and Operations Committee and the Program Development Committee, where his thoughtful insights and deep institutional knowledge help guide important industry decisions. He also played a key role in the development and implementation of the Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO) through the 508(h) process, collaborating with Watts and Associates to help deliver meaningful, farmer-focused solutions. Known by colleagues as a “walking book” of crop insurance knowledge, Bill consistently leads with integrity, clarity, and a commitment to doing what is right for farmers and the industry.

Former NAU Country President Jim Korin was honored with the NCIS Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing decades of leadership, advocacy, and service to crop insurance and American agriculture. Jim’s career spans more than 40 years, during which he has played a pivotal role in shaping both NAU Country and the broader crop insurance landscape.

During his 11-year tenure as President of NAU Country, Jim led the organization’s significant growth, positioning the company as a market leader. His influence reaches far beyond corporate success. Jim previously served as Chair of the NCIS Board, provided testimony before the U.S. Senate Committee, and has been a consistent advocate for the core principles of flexibility, affordability, and availability within the federal crop insurance program. Like Bill, Jim also contributed significantly to the development of the Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO), reinforcing his lifelong focus on innovation and farmer-first solutions.

Perhaps most notably, Jim is widely respected as a mentor and trusted advisor. He has helped shape the careers of many industry leaders, emphasizing the importance of the “three-legged stool”, the balance between government, private industry, and farmers as the foundation of a strong crop insurance system. His leadership style, rooted in accessibility, authenticity, and service, has left a lasting impact on NAU Country and the industry as a whole.

NAU Country leadership attended the NCIS award ceremony in Palm Springs, CA, to celebrate both honorees and recognize their incredible achievements. The NAU Country family is honored to work alongside professionals whose dedication, integrity, and leadership continue to strengthen crop insurance and support farmers across the country.