A statewide mortgage association has named John P. Read of Groton as its 2006 "Broker of the Year," citing his professionalism and longtime service to the industry.

Read, the owner of Atlantic Financial Services in Groton, was honored this month by the Connecticut Society of Mortgage Brokers, which is affiliated with the National Association of Mortgage Brokers.

Peter Spalthoff, executive director of the state society, said Read has been an active member of the association for more than 10 years, serving in a variety of positions. He now serves as secretary of the group and chairman of its legislative committee.

A Mystic native, Read founded Atlantic Financial Services in 1992. The firm, which now represents more than 30 mortgage lenders, is a leading mortgage broker in the region.

Spalthoff said Read is a "man that get things done" in the industry. He said Read has always demonstrated "concern for the well-being of the mortgage broker and the consumer."

Read was honored earlier this month at the mortgage society's annual elections dinner at the Mohegan Sun casino. In accepting the annual honor, Read said other mortgage brokers should get involved in issues affecting the industry and volunteer their time with the state chapter of the mortgage brokers society.

Read is also co-chairing legislation backed by the state society of mortgage brokers that would require licensing and minimum education requirements for loan officers who serve the industry.

The legislation, he said, is long overdue, adding that other states already have enacted such legislation for their mortgage brokerage industry.

He said the legislation would at least ensure a minimum level of expertise by a loan officer in Connecticut and increase the professionalism of the industry.

In addition, he said such requirements would "greatly enhance the interests of the consumer." The legislation also has the support of other trade groups and industry regulars and legislators.