For many in the Illinois workers’ compensation community, was more than an industry event. It was a deliberate in building something stronger: a more connected, collaborative space where claims professionals, attorneys, employers, vendors, and risk leaders could move beyond transactional conversations and focus on practical solutions together.

In an industry often shaped by complexity, competing priorities and rising claim challenges, creating space for meaningful collaboration matters more than ever.

And the timing is important. Workplace injuries continue to carry significant human and financial impact across the country, with employers navigating rising medical costs, mental health considerations, return-to-work challenges, and increasingly complex claims environments, private industry employers reported approximately 2.5 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2024 alone, underscoring the continued importance of helping injured employees recover safely. Yet many professionals continue to face those challenges in silos, separated by role, organization or perspective.

set out to change that.

Building Something More Connected

For Abbi Brock, Workers’ Compensation Claims Resolution Specialist at ���Ĵ�ý, involvement as a founding member of the organization came from recognizing an opportunity to create a different kind of industry experience — one rooted not only in education, but in authentic connection and actionable discussion.

“There are a lot of great events out there,” Brock explains, “But we saw an opportunity to build a space that felt a bit more connected — where industry professionals could have honest conversations about the challenges we’re all facing.”

The response suggested that a vision had been needed all along.

Throughout the conference, the most meaningful conversations often extended beyond the scheduled sessions. Panel discussions evolved into hallway conversations, and hallway conversations became opportunities to exchange ideas across roles, organizations and perspectives. What emerged was something deeper than networking; it became much more of a shared recognition that many organizations are navigating the same challenges and that meaningful progress often begins by bringing people together earlier and more intentionally.

“It didn’t feel like just another conference,” Brock says. “It felt like people were genuinely invested in learning from each other and improving how we approach claims.”

Connecting the Dots Before Claims Spiral

One of the conference’s standout discussions centered on Brock’s panel: Red Flags and Rescue: Connecting the Dots Before Claims Spiral.

The conversation focused on a growing reality within Workers’ Compensation: claims rarely become complex overnight. More often, escalation begins with smaller indicators — communication breakdowns, delayed interventions, psychosocial concerns, or missed opportunities to coordinate care and return-to-work efforts proactively.

The panel emphasized recognizing those signals early, improving communication across stakeholders and acting before smaller concerns developed into more complex claims. Recent that cases involving days away from work resulted in an average of eight days away from work. Stats like this help highlight the importance of timely communication, coordinated care and effective return-to-work strategies.

“Successful outcomes often come down to connecting the dots,” Brock explains. “Whether that’s between medical care, return-to-work efforts or the psychosocial factors influencing recovery, early communication often creates opportunities to change the trajectory of a claim.”

That proactive mindset reflects a broader evolution taking place across the Workers’ Compensation industry. As claims environments grow more nuanced, organizations increasingly recognize that strong outcomes depend not only on technical expertise, but on communication, partnership, and early intervention strategies that keep people moving forward.

Perhaps no message captured that mindset more clearly than one simple reminder shared during the discussion.

“In the words of Lindsay Huffman, AVP of Workers’ Compensation Claims here at ���Ĵ�ý,” Brock shared, “‘Say less, listen more.’�ĝ

Simple in phrasing, but powerful in practice.

Behind the scenes, bringing IL Work Comp Connect to life required months of coordination, planning, and shared commitment among organizers and industry partners. But for Brock, the turnout ultimately validated the larger purpose behind the effort.

Momentum Built Through Collaboration

“When you’re building something from the ground up, there’s always a level of uncertainty,” she says. “But seeing the engagement really validated the vision we had.”

Attendees responded with the same enthusiasm, expressing appreciation for having an event in Illinois dedicated not just to presentations, but to meaningful industry dialogue and practical learning opportunities.

That sense of momentum may ultimately become the conference’s greatest success. , sharing injury and illness data helps employers identify workplace hazards and strengthen prevention efforts. Conferences like expand that idea by creating opportunities for professionals to exchange experiences, discuss emerging challenges and learn from one another.

Rather than repeating the same conversations year after year, organizers hope to continue evolving the event around the topics the Illinois workers’ compensation community wants to explore most.

“This year really set the foundation,” Brock says. “I think we’re just getting started.

Stronger Outcomes Start with Stronger Connections

At its core, demonstrated that the industry’s greatest opportunities often begin with a conversation.

Because the strongest outcomes rarely happen in isolation. They’re built through relationships. Through shared expertise. Through people willing to listen carefully, act early, and work together toward better solutions for injured workers and employers alike.

At ���Ĵ�ý, we believe those moments matter. Helping organizations navigate risk, strengthen workplace outcomes, and build resilient partnerships takes more than technical knowledge alone — it requires people willing to meet challenges head-on and move the conversation forward together.

Farmington Hills, Mich., January 6, 2025 — ���Ĵ�ý is proud to announce its selection as one of the members, a national distinction recognizing companies committed to developing the next generation of insurance talent. This invitation-only program brings together organizations stepping forward with purpose—investing in mentorship, collaboration and workforce innovation at a time of significant change in the sector.

“We all benefit when we make space for the next generation to grow,” said Steve Donnelly, Chief Service Officer at ���Ĵ�ý and . “Joining the RISE Founding 50 allows us to support emerging leaders in a real, hands-on way—creating pathways for learning and long-term growth.”

As seasoned professionals retire and competition for skilled workers intensifies, insurers are being called upon to adopt sustainable approaches that help preserve continuity and prepare the workforce for what’s ahead. Backed by an 8,000-plus professional community, RISE connects employers and emerging talent—building opportunities for collaboration, leadership development, and industry-wide connection.

“When we invest in relationships and the growth of future leaders,” Donnelly said, “we’re not just developing talent; we’re helping shape a future for insurance that’s more inclusive, more resilient, and better prepared to support our policyholders.”

For ���Ĵ�ý, this partnership reinforces more than a century of investing in people and building empowered teams—continuing a legacy defined by powerful partnerships and a commitment to meaningful progress across the industry.

“RISE is creating the momentum our industry needs—spaces where professionals can learn boldly and grow into confident leaders,” said Erin Buddie, ���Ĵ�ý Chief Human Resources Officer. “When we invest in people early and consistently, we strengthen the entire ecosystem—our teams, our partners, and the communities we serve.”

About ���Ĵ�ý Insurance

���Ĵ�ý is a leading provider of commercial property and casualty insurance solutions for U.S.-based construction, manufacturing and healthcare businesses. Licensed in all fifty states and available through an exclusive network of elite independent agents, the company upholds an “A” (Excellent) financial strength rating, industry-leading service scores, and multiple awards for innovation. ���Ĵ�ý has been in business for more than 100 years and is consistently named among the best places to work in the industry and throughout the nation. To learn more, visit .

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���Ĵ�ý is proud to celebrate Risk Management Specialists Tim Max and Marcus Rasberry, who have been named to the 2024 Class of Emerging Leaders by the This prestigious recognition honors rising professionals who are shaping the future of the insurance industry through innovation, leadership, and business transformation.

Tim and Marcus join an elite group of high-performing professionals from more than 80 insurance organizations, each making a meaningful impact in areas such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, risk management, regulatory innovation, and workplace transformation. Their inclusion in this distinguished class underscores ���Ĵ�ý’s commitment to developing forward-thinking leaders who drive meaningful change.

Advancing Risk Management Through Innovation

Throughout their careers at ���Ĵ�ý, Tim and Marcus have played pivotal roles in leveraging advanced safety technology, data analytics, and telematics to enhance efficiency and workplace safety. Their proactive, technology-driven strategies are not just improving processes but helping businesses mitigate risk and protect their employees.

“At ���Ĵ�ý, we’re always looking for new ways to innovate and deliver greater value to our partners,” says Tim Max. “Being recognized as an Emerging Leader reinforces the impact of the work we’re doing to push the industry forward.”

Beyond their technical expertise, both are passionate about mentorship and community involvement, demonstrating a leadership that extends beyond their professional roles.

A Commitment to Leadership Development

As part of this honor, Tim and Marcus recently attended the 2025 Emerging Leaders Conference in Tampa, Florida, where they engaged with top industry executives, participated in leadership development sessions, and explored emerging trends shaping the future of insurance. The event provided valuable opportunities to network, gain executive insights, and collaborate on innovative solutions.

“Insurance is ultimately about people—helping businesses succeed, protecting workers, and making a positive impact,” shares Marcus Rasberry. “Attending the Emerging Leaders Conference was an incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and exchange ideas that will shape the future of our industry.”

Looking Ahead

“Tim and Marcus exemplify the future of insurance—one that is dynamic, data-driven, and deeply committed to the success of our policyholders and communities,” says Brad Noe, Risk Management Manager. “We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing how their leadership continues to shape the industry.”

Tim and Marcus’ recognition as APCIA Emerging Leaders reflects their exceptional contributions to innovation, risk management, and industry leadership. Their achievements highlight not only their individual dedication but also ���Ĵ�ý’s commitment to developing forward-thinking professionals who drive meaningful change.

We are proud to celebrate their success and the impact they continue to make in shaping the future of insurance. Discover what sets ���Ĵ�ý apart and how we set out to cultivate our emerging talent at .

���Ĵ�ý’s Rachel Frassetto, claims unit manager; Enjonli Hutchison, risk management manager; Cody Kelly, risk management service specialist; Jeremy Reaves, technical underwriting manager; and Kerry Rotella, business development manager, have been awarded the honor. With their selection as emerging leaders, they are invited to attend the 2024 Emerging Leaders conference in San Antonio, Texas, in February.

The selection of emerging leaders is designed to recognize outstanding rising talents in the insurance industry. Those selected represent a wide range of job functions. Nominees must have more than eight years of experience and demonstrate that they are making a positive impact on their companies and the industry.

“���Ĵ�ý is very proud to have Rachel, Enjonli, Cody, Jeremy, and Kerry represent our organization in the 2024 class of Emerging Leaders,” said Erin Buddie, ���Ĵ�ý’s chief human resources officer. “These individuals continuously surpass expectations through outstanding performance outcomes, and lead by example in their display of our values and demonstrated passion for providing a superior service experience.”

To learn more about the 2024 Emerging Leaders Conference and other events, .

About ���Ĵ�ý Insurance
���Ĵ�ý is a leading provider of commercial property and casualty insurance solutions for U.S.-based construction, manufacturing and healthcare businesses. Licensed in all fifty states and available through an exclusive network of elite independent agents, the company upholds an “A” (Excellent) financial strength rating, industry-leading service scores, and multiple awards for innovation. ���Ĵ�ý has been in business for more than 100 years and is consistently named among the best places to work in the industry and throughout the nation. To learn more, visit ���Ĵ�ý.com.

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���Ĵ�ý’s Blaze Rodriguez, business development manager, and Colette Turner, director of Workers’ Compensation field claims, have been awarded the prestigious honor, which is designed to recognize outstanding rising talents in the insurance industry. With their selection as emerging leaders, the employees are invited to attend the Emerging Leaders conference in Charleston, South Carolina, in February of 2023.

“���Ĵ�ý is proud to have Blaze and Colette represent our organization in the 2023 class of emerging leaders,” said Erin Buddie, ���Ĵ�ý’s vice president of human resources. “These individuals regularly surpass our expectations through notable performance outcomes within their job responsibilities, and lead by example in their display of ���Ĵ�ý’s values and demonstrated passion for providing superior service.”

Those selected for the recognition represent a wide range of job functions. Nominees must have more than eight years of experience and show they are making a positive impact on their companies and the industry.

Since the APCIA, Insurance Careers Movement and AM Best began selecting emerging leaders, ���Ĵ�ý has made a strong showing. Earlier in 2022, ���Ĵ�ý’s Kalin Coon, business development manager; Anastasia Gale, director of corporate & regulatory counsel; and RaFeael Smith, claims unit manager, were named emerging leaders. In 2021, John Calloway, director of field underwriting, was selected an emerging leader. Jessica Soufrine, vice president of field marketing & underwriting, was selected as an emerging leader in the 2019 inaugural class.

To learn more about the Emerging Leaders Conference and other events, .

About ���Ĵ�ý Insurance
���Ĵ�ý is a leading provider of commercial property and casualty insurance solutions for U.S.-based construction, manufacturing and healthcare businesses. Licensed in all fifty states and available through an exclusive network of elite independent agents, the company upholds an “A” (Excellent) financial strength rating, industry-leading service scores, and multiple awards for innovation. ���Ĵ�ý has been in business for more than 100 years and is consistently named among the best places to work in the industry and throughout the nation. To learn more, visit ���Ĵ�ý.com.

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