Maritza Rodriguez, Agency Owner at American Family Insurance in Aurora, brings passion, expertise, and a deeply personal touch to the world of insurance. With eight years of industry experience and nearly three years as a business owner, she has built a thriving agency rooted in community connection, personalized service, and a commitment to protecting what matters most.

“I started out focusing on home and auto insurance, but since opening my agency, we’ve expanded into business and life insurance—areas I’ve always been passionate about,” says Maritza. “Life insurance in particular is more rewarding than most people realize. You get to know clients on a personal level, understand their families, their goals, and help them plan for the future. That’s incredibly fulfilling.”

Maritza’s path to agency ownership began unexpectedly. While working for another insurance office and preparing for her annual review, she was approached with the opportunity to lead her own agency. Although she had enjoyed a successful six-year tenure in her previous role—purchasing her first home at just 21 and managing her finances with discipline and joy—this new prospect sparked something deeper.

“During my review, I realized for the first time that I might be ready for more,” she reflects. “Later that same day, I received an email about an agency owner position in Aurora. I called immediately and told them to stop the search. I knew the job was meant for me.” One sign sealed the deal: the address of the new agency location was 444—Maritza’s favorite number and a personal symbol of alignment and blessings. “When I saw that on my business cards, I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be,” she says.

From a young age, Maritza knew she wanted a career that involved people—and provided the flexibility to enjoy life. “I thought about selling homes, cars, or insurance. I tried car sales but quickly realized it wasn’t for me,” she says. “I wanted something consistent that would let me travel, enjoy life, and make a difference.” While working at a restaurant, a bartender working in insurance inspired her to go through the licensing process. Soon after, she joined a newly opened agency in Aurora, and her insurance journey officially began.

Maritza is passionate about educating her clients and helping them make confident decisions. Her biggest piece of advice? “Trust the person you’re working with. Insurance is a legal contract—it’s not just about price, but about the peace of mind that comes from knowing your family and assets are truly protected.”

Her agency has earned nearly 200 five-star reviews on Google and continues to grow through referrals and community engagement. “We host monthly referral raffles and are proud to have been ranked #1 by JD Power for small business insurance,” she notes.

At the heart of the agency is a close-knit team that feels more like family. Maritza works alongside her older brother, Gustavo, and Yuliana, a long-time colleague who has supported her throughout multiple agencies. “Yuliana is my rock. We’ve worked together since day one, and I always say as long as I take care of her, there’s no reason she’d want to leave. We’ve created a warm, collaborative environment that clients can feel the moment they walk through the door.”

Outside of the agency, Maritza enjoys a rich personal life. She recently got engaged to Frank, a public adjuster, during a trip to Jamaica. She is extremely close to her mother, Marisela, whom she speaks with every day. “She’s my biggest inspiration. I’ve always felt lucky to have her, and now it’s my turn to give back.”

A lover of travel, cats, and outdoor adventures with her large group of friends, Maritza balances ambition with joy—bringing that same balance to every client interaction.