Sentry Insurance Earns Top Marks as a Best-in-State Company for 2026

STEVENS POINT, WI – February 09, 2026 – In a significant affirmation of its corporate culture and business practices, Sentry Insurance has been named one of Forbes' 'America's Best-in-State Companies' for 2026. The Stevens Point-based mutual insurance group distinguished itself from a field of more than 50,000 organizations reviewed nationwide to earn the coveted recognition, underscoring its position as a premier employer in Wisconsin and a leader in the national insurance landscape.

This honor is not merely a corporate accolade but a reflection of sentiment from the people who know the company best: its employees and customers. The rigorous selection process validates Sentry’s long-standing commitment to fostering a workplace built on trust and delivering reliable service.

A Deep Dive into the Recognition

The Forbes 'Best-in-State' list is compiled through a meticulous, multi-faceted methodology developed in partnership with the market research firm Statista. The foundation of the ranking is a vast, anonymous survey of tens of thousands of employees working for companies with a significant U.S. presence. This direct feedback provides an unvarnished look into the day-to-day reality of the workplace.

Employees are asked to rate their willingness to recommend their own employer to friends and family. They also have the opportunity to evaluate other employers within their state and industry, providing a comparative perspective. The evaluation criteria are comprehensive, covering key aspects of the employee experience, including:

• Working Conditions and Compensation: Fair salary, safe environment, and overall workplace atmosphere.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Commitment to creating a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives.
• Potential for Development: Opportunities for career growth, training, and professional advancement.
• Company Image and Culture: The overall reputation of the company and the internal values that guide its operations.

For the 2026 list, the analysis was expanded to incorporate data from several other sources, including consumer reviews, an assessment of the company’s security practices, and media sentiment. This holistic approach ensures that recognized companies excel not only as employers but also as trusted corporate citizens in the eyes of the public. Forbes’ methodology is also intentionally designed to account for company size and regional population differences, reducing bias toward larger corporations and ensuring a level playing field for evaluation.

The Culture Advantage: A Foundation of Trust

For Sentry, the Forbes recognition is a direct result of a deliberate, long-term investment in its people. Pete McPartland, Chairman and CEO of Sentry, pointed to this core philosophy in his response to the news. "We take great pride in building a culture that earns trust and loyalty from our customers while also creating a workplace where employees feel confident, valued, and supported," he stated. "This recognition reflects the dedication of our team and our commitment to doing the right thing every day."

This achievement is part of a consistent pattern of workplace honors for the insurer. Sentry's trophy case includes accolades from TIME as one of 'America's Best Mid-Size Companies,' from Newsweek as one of 'America's Greatest Workplaces for Women,' and from Forbes on previous lists for 'Best Midsize Employers' and 'Best Employers for College Grads.' This sustained recognition across different publications and criteria highlights a deeply embedded culture rather than a fleeting initiative. Such a positive internal environment often creates a virtuous cycle, where supported and engaged employees deliver superior customer service, which in turn builds customer loyalty and reinforces the company's strong financial standing, evidenced by its A+ (superior) rating from AM Best.

A Pillar of Wisconsin's Economy

While Sentry operates nationwide, its roots are firmly planted in Wisconsin. Founded in 1904, the company has grown from a local enterprise into a national powerhouse, all while maintaining its headquarters in Stevens Point. This latest honor from Forbes solidifies its status as a cornerstone of the state's economy and a benchmark for regional employers.

Sentry employs more than 6,000 people across the country, with approximately half of its workforce—over 3,000 individuals—living and working in Wisconsin. This makes the company a significant driver of local employment and economic stability. The recognition as a 'Best-in-State' company is therefore not just a win for Sentry, but a point of pride for the Wisconsin business community, demonstrating that homegrown companies can compete and excel on a national stage. This award, alongside others like its inclusion in the 'Deloitte Wisconsin 75,' showcases Sentry as a key player in attracting and retaining talent within the state, contributing to a vibrant and competitive professional landscape.

Navigating a Competitive Talent Landscape

In the highly competitive insurance and financial services sector, the battle for talent is fierce. Companies are no longer competing solely on salary and benefits but on culture, purpose, and reputation. In this environment, third-party endorsements like the Forbes 'Best-in-State' list become powerful strategic assets. Such accolades serve as a credible signal to potential hires that a company is truly committed to its employees' well-being and professional growth.

Sentry's consistent ability to earn these honors gives it a distinct advantage in recruiting and retaining top-tier professionals, from seasoned industry veterans to promising new graduates. The specific recognition as a top employer for college grads suggests the company has built effective pathways for nurturing the next generation of leaders. For an industry undergoing significant transformation, attracting innovative and motivated individuals is critical for long-term success. By cultivating a workplace that is consistently ranked among the nation's best, Sentry has built a resilient employer brand that strengthens its market position and promises continued stability and growth for years to come.