CONNECT 2025: A Day That Delivered & Then Some

CONNECT 2025 was everything we hoped for and more! An energizing day packed with meaningful conversations, real-world learning, and a room full of agents, exhibitors, and partners ready to move the industry forward.

This year’s theme of AI in the independent agency went far beyond the buzz. Attendees walked away with a clearer understanding of how to use AI as a practical tool to streamline workflows, improve service, and stay ahead of risks. Sessions also tackled today’s biggest cybersecurity challenges and shared actionable ways to protect against tech-related E&O exposure. Adding to the day’s depth, State Representatives Cara Pavalock-D’Amato and Kerry Wood joined us to discuss the current state of Connecticut’s insurance market and the real challenges independent agents are navigating; underscoring the importance of strong advocacy for our industry’s future.

We covered a lot, but the real magic happened in the connections. It was a chance to build new relationships and strengthen existing ones with people who understand the unique challenges and opportunities of agency life. For many, it wasn’t just a conference… it was the room to be in.

Thank you to all who joined us. If you missed it this year, we hope to see you next time. CONNECT continues to grow, and we’re just getting started.

Look back at all we did

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Time	2025 CONNECT Recap
8:45 – 9:30 AM	Registration & Coffee in Industry Marketplace
9:30 – 11:30 AM	Morning Program (Opportunity for 1 CE) Unlocking AI to Boost Your Agency’s Potential Dale Steinke Director at Agent for the Future Advisors for Liberty Mutual Insurance, Safeco Insurance & State Auto Insurance 30-Minute Cybersecurity Bootcamp Ryan Smith President & Principal Consultant at RLS Consulting Criminals are constantly trying to trick you. Even your most experienced team members can make mistakes that damage your agency’s credibility and expose you to significant fines. In this quick session, you will learn 5 red flags and what to do when you notice them. Rapid-Fire Tech Demos Featuring 1Fort, Cara, HawkSoft & Linqura Solution providers will beat the buzzer with their lightning-fast demos of very cool technology… and a cybersecurity tip on using it more safely.
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM	Industry Marketplace Relationships are everything. This is your big opportunity to network with carriers, meet the new solution to your agency’s biggest challenges, and strengthen many areas of your foundation in a quick period of time. Want a warm introduction? We’ve got your back– our team will be there to help! The Industry Marketplace exhibit hall is SOLD OUT. It will be packed with solutions.
1:00 -2:45 PM	Luncheon & Program Our CONNECT program & luncheon unites the best of everything to help you make the most of your time– meaningful networking, tangible insights, updates that matter– and ends with a little celebration. Four Steps to Finding Your AI Way Dale Steinke Director at Agent for the Future Advisors for Liberty Mutual Insurance, Safeco Insurance & State Auto Insurance At The Table: Connecticut Lawmakers Discuss Insurance Policy & Priorities Kerry Wood \| 29th House District (Rocky Hill & Wethersfield) Cara Pavalock-D’Amato \| 77th Assembly District (Bristol) Moderated by Travis Wattie \| Big I CT AVP of Government Relations Hear firsthand from state representatives on what advocacy efforts are happening in Hartford & Washington D.C., and plenty more. You don’t want to miss this!
2:45 – 3:30 PM	Reception in Industry Marketplace Close out the day with a drink, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and top-shelf networking.