Barry Secrest is the owner and principal agent of Carolina Industrial Agency. Born and raised in North Carolina, Barry has spent his career in this state — serving the people, businesses, and communities he knows by heart.
Before entering the insurance industry, Barry served in the United States Navy, enlisting in 1982 as an Operations Specialist aboard the USS THORN, a Navy destroyer. His commitment to excellence in uniform earned him the distinction of Honor Graduate from U.S. Navy Technical School — a standard of precision and dedication he has carried into every aspect of his professional life since.
Barry's approach to insurance is rooted in something increasingly rare: the belief that a long-standing client relationship is worth more than any single sale. Many of his clients have been with him for decades. They trust him not just with their policies, but with the decisions that protect their families, homes, and businesses — and that trust is something he does not take lightly.
"The relationships I've built throughout my insurance career are what I value most. When someone calls me, they're not starting over with a stranger — they're calling someone who has been in their corner for years."
U.S. Navy — 1982
Served as an Operations Specialist aboard the USS THORN, a Navy destroyer. Brought military discipline, precision, and commitment to service into a lifelong career.
Honor Graduate
Graduated with honors from U.S. Navy Technical School — a distinction that reflects the same standard of excellence he applies to every client interaction.
Native North Carolinian
Born and raised in North Carolina, Barry knows this state — its communities, its people, and the specific insurance challenges facing Carolinians — better than any out-of-state agent.
Decades of Relationships
Many of Barry's clients have trusted him for years — even decades. The continuity he provides means your agent always knows your history, your needs, and your name.