Big I New York

A huge thank you to everyone who joined Christine Neet and Travis Wattie at our recent Coffee Pop-Ins in Saratoga Springs and Albany!

We had fantastic conversations about everything from pre-licensing and education opportunities to AI, advocacy, and the future of our industry. Most importantly, we heard your questions, your ideas, and the challenges you're seeing in your agencies.

Your insights help shape the programs, resources, and conversations we're bringing to independent agents across New York, and we appreciate everyone who took the time to join us.

Keep an eye out for more Big I New York events across the Capital District this fall—we're looking forward to seeing you again soon!

Real change doesn't happen from the sidelines.

This year, New York's independent insurance agents helped secure some of the most significant property and casualty insurance reforms our state has seen in decades. Those victories were made possible because members of Big I New York's Group of 100 (G100) showed up, shared their expertise, and made their voices heard.

In his latest article, Travis Wattie reflects on what G100 accomplished and why grassroots advocacy continues to be one of the most powerful tools our industry has.

Read the article and learn how you can get involved: https://hubs.ly/Q04r0VP80

We're excited to welcome Adrianna Roser to the Big I New York team as our new Assistant Underwriter! 🎉

As part of our IAAC team, Adrianna will be supporting members with underwriting, submissions, policy issuance, and relationship management, helping ensure every transaction is handled with care and accuracy.

When she's not at work, you'll likely find Adrianna spending time with her fiancé, James, their two dogs, Cooper and Murray, or planning their next Disney adventure🏰

Please join us in giving Adrianna a warm welcome to the Big I New York family! 👏

Big I New York was at the National Council of Insurance Legislators (NCOIL) Summer Meeting, where lawmakers and industry leaders are working through some of the biggest issues facing insurance today.

Our AVP of Government Relations, Travis Wattie, spent time with Assembly Insurance Committee Chair David Weprin, Assembly Speaker Pro Tempore Pam Hunter, Assemblyman Jarret Gandolfo, and Assemblyman Eric Dilan.

We're also proud to see the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America represented, with Senior Counsel Wes Bissett testifying on key property & casualty priorities before lawmakers.

These conversations matter. They're where relationships are built, ideas are shared, and the future of our industry starts to take shape.

The person who leads your agency tomorrow might already be sitting in your office today.

Leadership Academy helps insurance professionals build the confidence, communication, and leadership skills that great agencies are built on.

Whether you're preparing a future leader, strengthening a current manager, or investing in your own growth, this six-week program is designed to turn potential into performance.

🚀 Applications are now open.
📅 Classes begin September 16.

Learn more and apply: https://hubs.la/Q04pm9980

Big congratulations to our own Travis Wattie on being named to City & State New York's 2026 Who's Who in Insurance! 🎉

As Big I New York's AVP of Government Relations, Travis works every day to make sure the voices of independent insurance agents are heard where it matters most. From advancing meaningful insurance reform to advocating for legislation that strengthens our industry and better serves New Yorkers, his work has made a real impact.

We're incredibly proud to have Travis representing Big I New York, our members, and the independent agency system with passion, integrity, and relentless dedication.

Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, Travis! 👏

Read more: https://www.cityandstateny.com/power-lists/2026/07/2026-whos-who-insurance/414625/ -travis

When you hear "AI in insurance claims," what's your first reaction?

For many people, it's concern. Will a computer decide whether a claim gets paid?

The reality is more nuanced.

AI has the potential to speed up routine claims, reduce administrative work, and free up adjusters to focus on the complex situations where human judgment matters most. But with that opportunity comes an important responsibility: making sure speed never comes at the expense of fairness.

In his latest article, Big I New York Director of Technology Nick Johnson explores how AI is changing the claims experience, and why independent agents should understand what's happening behind the scenes to better advocate for their clients.

https://hubs.la/Q04p8ZK-0

Most E&O seminars help you earn CE.

This one can help lower your E&O premium.

Join Brian Bixby and Howard Kronberg on July 15 for our annual E&O Loss Control Seminar.

You'll earn your CE credits while walking away with practical strategies to reduce your E&O exposure—and if you're insured through Swiss Re Corporate Solutions with IAAC, this seminar may also qualify your agency for an E&O premium discount.

That's education that pays you back.

📅 June 30 🔗 Register here: https://hubs.la/Q04nX68q0

Your insurance career starts here.

Whether you're brand new to the industry or ready to earn your next license, our Pre-Licensing Programs begin September 15.

Choose the path that's right for you:
• Property & Casualty (P&C)
• Personal Lines Only

Live online instruction, experienced educators, and everything you need to prepare for your New York licensing exam, all from your desk. Registration is now open.

🔗 https://hubs.la/Q04nP0910