A remarkable collaboration between Soderberg Insurance Services and Servicios Internacionales, Inc. — a Spanish-based accounting firm — began not in a boardroom but in a classroom, thanks to the initiative of a student and the guidance of a dedicated mentor.
When Endicott College senior Vontel DiBlasi found himself without an internship, Bahar Uttam — adjunct professor at Endicott and chief of staff at Soderberg Insurance — stepped in. He created a customized internship opportunity at Soderberg, ensuring that DiBlasi gained valuable professional experience during his final year.
At the same time, DiBlasi was working part-time for Servicios Internacionales, which was led by Sonia Carpio, an accomplished businesswoman and president of the firm. Throughout his internship, DiBlasi noticed striking similarities between Carpio and Kathryn Soderberg, who is president of Soderberg Insurance.
He noticed they had shared values, a client-focused approach and visionary leadership. Recognizing the potential for collaboration, DiBlasi arranged for the two women to meet.
During Carpio’s visit to Soderberg’s office, she noticed a vacant office space next door. Soderberg mentioned that she had acquired it for future expansion and was open to leasing it. The timing was ideal — Carpio moved in, and the two businesses soon began a dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership.
One year later, Soderberg Insurance and Servicios Internacionales are not only referring clients to one another but are also working closely to meet the evolving needs of their diverse clientele.
“This partnership grew out of mentorship, trust and a student’s insightful observation,” said Soderberg. “Bahar’s guidance and Vontel’s initiative were the catalysts. It’s a story that exemplifies the value of investing in people.”
This inspiring story is a testament to the power of experiential education and mentorship — and how supporting student potential can spark innovation and growth in the business world.
About Soderberg Insurance Services
Founded in 1971 by Douglas and Frances Soderberg, Soderberg Insurance Services began in the basement of the young couple’s home, initially focusing on life insurance and employee benefits.
As the agency expanded, it added property and casualty insurance to its offerings and now partners with over 40 insurance carriers. Soderberg Insurance has been a longstanding member of the North Shore business community.
The agency has sponsored internship programs with Colby College and Endicott College and supports the special needs community through tennis and recreation programs for young adults. It also promotes financial literacy by offering a free library of business and finance books for clients to borrow or keep.
Under the leadership of current president Kathryn M. Soderberg, the agency has become a trusted name within the Hispanic community. With a bilingual staff, Soderberg has established itself as a leader in serving this previously underserved population. The agency conducts business in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine.
About Servicios Internacionales, Inc.
Servicios Internacionales, Inc., founded by Salvadoran immigrant Sonia Carpio, began as a seasonal tax service in her living room and has grown into a full-service accounting and business support firm in Lynnfield.
Carpio arrived in the U.S. in 1998, determined to build a better life through education. While pursuing a teaching career, she also began helping others with taxes and business documentation — a passion that evolved into a thriving business rooted in trust, integrity and professional service.
In 2013, she opened her first office in Chelsea, and by 2022, thanks to word-of-mouth referrals and continued support, Servicios Internacionales relocated to a larger space in Lynnfield. With the support of team member Vontel DiBlasi, who joined in 2021, Carpio has expanded the firm’s services and client base.
Today, Servicios Internacionales serves clients from a wide range of backgrounds — including Latino, American and Brazilian communities — providing services such as tax preparation, business formation, payroll and more.
