He’s an entrepreneur, and he doesn’t even know it.

Michael Lee, 38, of Flatlands Insurance Group, started his career at his family’s business, well-known Washington car dealership Lee Chevrolet. Around the age of 35, however, Lee was itching to branch out on his own.

Something with people and sales-oriented, yet something math-based — insurance seemed to fit the criteria.

Lee said he’s always got something going on, whether it’s selling a tractor or starting a brand new career. That’s his nature. His instinct is to provide for his wife and three children in any way he can.

Lee is also the guy to call for connections. Need a plumber? He’s sure to know one.

“I was blessed by the Lord, I guess, with a knack for putting people together,” Lee said. “I like people, and I like helping people.”

He’s putting that trait to use with insurance now. Although it was a tough decision to leave his family’s business, having worked his way from car washer to manager, Lee said he felt it was a now-or-never situation.

“They’ve been very supportive. Everybody has,” he said. “It’s a place where I can help people find a means to an end, what I feel like I’m good at.”

Lee said he likes the supportive role an insurance agent plays — offering a safety net to protect people, while also being there as a sort of bright spot for people in their darkest days.

The Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce recognized Lee’s spirited work ethic in January, naming him as the Entrepreneur of the Year.

Lee thought he was only there to support his friends, and fellow winners, Paige Allen Harris and Stuart O’Neal.

“They got me pretty good. … It got a little fishy when I saw my grandma there,” he said. “I appreciate it. It’s humbling, and it’s undeserved.”

Although he’s a multitasker by nature, Lee said insurance is where he intends to put in the rest of his working years. And he couldn’t be happier.

“This is me, Lord willing,” he said.