Premium Associate Member Spotlight: Kapnick Insurance Group
This article appeared in the April 2025 issue of MiMfg Magazine. Read the full issue and find past issues online.
Different industries have different insurance needs based on risk factors, processes, equipment and technology. The needs of a nonprofit organization, for example, are very different than those of a manufacturing business.
In the manufacturing industry, where workplace safety regulations and cybersecurity are among many factors in determining necessary protections, insurance agencies that specialize in the industry can be a valuable resource.
Andrew Kapnick, Senior Vice President/Manufacturing Practice Leader for Adrian-based Kapnick Insurance Group, says having an insurance partner with a deep understanding of the industry helps manufacturers address complex issues and stay proactive on regulatory changes.
Kapnick and Vice President/Client Executive Natalie Criswell say their firm divides responsibilities based on the industry because it gives clients the best outcomes. From that expertise, manufacturers benefit from unique insights into claims support, audit assistance, loss control, engineering assistance, coverage gap analysis, certificate management, supply chain management issues and specialty coverages such as cyber insurance, pollution policy insurance and product recall insurance.
Best Part of My Job
“Building relationships and helping clients find the right solutions. I enjoy simplifying complex insurance matters and making a real impact.” — Kapnick’s Natalie Criswell
Because machinery and processes are intertwined with cloud-based systems, a common need in manufacturing today is cyber insurance, which can cover a business in the event of a cyber-attack or scams. Criswell says clients can feel comforted by having personalized service with a goal of optimizing insurance costs based on what the manufacturing businesses truly need, whether it’s related to cyber insurance or other policies.
Criswell says adding a more tailored and holistic approach to cyber insurance analysis better meets businesses’ needs because all IT systems, processes and needs are unique to the organization.
Like their manufacturing clients, Kapnick invests in on-the-job-training through an apprenticeship program that is highly unique in the insurance industry. Students and recent high school graduates can receive training through a collaborative apprenticeship program between Kapnick Insurance Group and Jackson College.
Through the competitive program, chosen applicants attend school two days a week and then spend three days at Kapnick learning essential skills and insights from their mentors, explains Lydia VanValkenburg, HR Business Partner.
How We’re Innovating
“Our company innovates by having experts in our field. We have experts for specific coverage areas and specific industries.” — Kapnick’s Andrew Kapnick
At the end of the program, students receive their Property and Casualty licenses, a certificate of completion from the U.S. Department of Labor and the opportunity for a full-time position at Kapnick. Kapnick also pays for the students’ courses, which can be completed virtually, leading to an associate degree from Jackson College. Additionally, apprentices earn a wage for the on-the-job training.
Whether it’s through training or having experts on staff to develop a holistic, tailored approach, finding the right insurance partner enables manufacturers to protect themselves while minimizing surprises.
Kapnick Insurance Group is an MMA Premium Associate Member and has been an MMA member company since April 2024. Visit online: kapnick.com.