What makes an IT executive stand out as one of Tech Decisions' Insurance IT All-Stars? For six years we have been handing out these accolades and the single factor that binds all of our all-stars over the years is their ability to address problems and—through collaboration—bring people, and processes, and technology together to determine the best solution.

The 2012 group is no different. Some have similar backgrounds; others do not. We have personal lines carriers, specialty lines, and even a life insurer. What makes this particular group stand out alongside any of the previous groups of all-stars we've selected is they are unafraid to admit they don't have all the answers, but they do have the inner strength, talent, and expertise to find the best possible solutions and initiate them into their corporate environment.

This year's list includes Rich Pedersen, senior vice president and CIO of National Life Group; Rick Roy, senior vice president and CIO of CUNA Mutual; Bryan Fowler, vice president and CIO of Oregon Mutual Group; Thad DeBerry, senior vice president and CIO of Western World Insurance Group; and Peter Moreau, vice president and CIO of Amica Insurance.