Our Story
Kern Island Insurance began in 1986 with a handshake between two Bakersfield friends, Steve and John. Throughout its history, the agency they founded has been small but mighty. Mighty enough to consult on self-funded plans for major employers, PEOs, and captive programs, but small enough that they still deliver homemade cookies to their commercial clients every Christmas.
Headquartered in Bakersfield, California, Kern Island Insurance equips employers with unbeatable benefits to attract new talent and retain their best employees. They work with employers across California and in other states in a wide range of industries including Energy, Agriculture, Medical, Technology, Government, Construction, and more.
In 2023 they opened their Property & Casualty Division and became a full-service agency, offering Workers Comp and all commercial lines. They have poured their extensive knowledge of reinsurance markets and risk management into this division, especially into their captive options.
John retired in 2023. Steve Snitchler stills heads the agency.
Executive Team
Steve Snitchler – President
Steve grew up in Houston, Texas during the space race and graduated from the University of Texas Austin in 1977. He worked in a diverse range of industries from construction to energy before founding Kern Island Insurance in 1986. Under his leadership, the agency grew to being central California’s trusted source for self-funded insurance.
In his spare time, Steve enjoys cycling, volunteering with his Kiwanas club, and playing bass guitar.
Patrick Snitchler – Senior Account Manager
Patrick is a native of Bakersfield, California. He has dual bachelors in Accounting and Theatre from California Baptist University. Before joining Kern Island Insurance, he worked in accounting and business management. He is a member of Bakersfield East Rotary Club, and has served as the legislative chair for the subchapter of California Agents and Health Insurance Professionals.
In his spare time, Patrick enjoys cycling and hiking. A few times a month, he drives down to LA or Orange County to sing tenor with the Bonner Singers.
