At Rathbun Insurance, we believe that staying ahead of industry changes is an important part of delivering exceptional service to our clients. Technology continues to transform the insurance industry, and we are committed to exploring new tools and opportunities that help us work smarter, operate more efficiently, and strengthen the relationships that matter most.
Recently, our CEO, Ben Rathbun, attended Big I Michigan’s 2026 Great Lakes Automation Day (GLAD), an event bringing together independent insurance agency professionals, technology partners, and industry experts to explore the evolving role of technology in insurance.
The event focused on practical conversations surrounding automation, artificial intelligence (AI), agency operations, and digital transformation. Through general sessions and specialized breakout discussions, attendees had opportunities to learn about emerging technologies and explore real-world applications that independent agencies can bring back to their businesses.
As technology evolves, independent insurance agencies have more opportunities than ever to streamline administrative processes, improve workflows, and enhance the overall client experience.
Artificial intelligence and automation are becoming increasingly important tools in our industry. From simplifying routine tasks and improving access to information to helping agency teams manage their time more effectively, these advancements have the potential to change how insurance professionals serve their clients.
Events like Great Lakes Automation Day provide valuable opportunities to learn from industry experts, exchange ideas with fellow independent agencies, and thoughtfully evaluate which technologies make sense for our business.
For Rathbun Insurance, embracing innovation isn't about adopting technology simply because it's new. It's about asking thoughtful questions, challenging traditional processes, and identifying solutions that genuinely improve how we operate. That approach aligns closely with one of our agency's core values: Question Everything.
While technology can help improve efficiency, we recognize that insurance is ultimately a relationship-driven business.
Our clients rely on us to help them understand their coverage, navigate challenging situations, and make informed decisions about protecting the people and things that matter most to them.
No amount of automation can replace the reassurance of speaking with someone who knows you, understands your needs, and is committed to being there when it matters.
That's why we view technology as an opportunity to support our team, not replace the personal connections that define our agency.
When we can reduce time spent on repetitive administrative tasks, we create more opportunities for our employees to focus on meaningful conversations, thoughtful problem-solving, and exceptional client service.
Participating in industry events like Great Lakes Automation Day is one of the many ways Rathbun Insurance remains engaged in the future of independent insurance. We believe continuous learning and a willingness to embrace change are essential to building an agency that can serve our clients and community for generations to come.
We appreciate Big I Michigan for creating opportunities for independent agencies to come together, share knowledge, and explore the innovations shaping our industry.
As we look ahead, we're excited about the possibilities technology brings and remain committed to finding the right balance between innovation and personal service.
Because at Rathbun Insurance, technology may change how we work, but it will never change why we do what we do.
Being There Matters Most.