Big I Michigan Presents
Great Lakes Automation Day 2026
Join us for a one-day event focused on helping independent agencies work smarter, streamline operations, and explore the technology, automation, and AI tools shaping the future of insurance.
November 3, 2026
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort
Mt. Pleasant, MI
Registration: $150
Hotel Reservations: Visit Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort and select Book Stay. Use group code GLAD110226 to receive the group rate.
You may also call 877-232-4532 and reference group code GLAD110226.
Room Block Deadline: October 12, 2026.
About the Event
Great Lakes Automation Day, or GLAD, brings together agency professionals, technology partners, and industry experts for a full day of practical conversations around automation, artificial intelligence, agency operations, and digital transformation.
Whether your agency is just beginning to explore automation or looking to take your tech strategy to the next level, GLAD is designed to deliver real-world ideas you can bring back and put to work.
What to Expect
Automation Strategies
Explore ways to reduce manual work, improve workflows, and create more efficient agency processes.
AI & Innovation
Learn how emerging tools are changing agency operations, client service, marketing, and team productivity.
Practical Takeaways
Walk away with ideas, resources, and vendor connections that can help your agency move forward.
2026 Agenda & Sessions
From practical AI applications to smarter technology decisions, GLAD is designed to give independent agencies ideas they can put to work right away. Start the day together with general sessions, then choose the afternoon breakout sessions that best match your experience and goals.
Morning
8:00–9:00 a.m.
Registration
Registration & Breakfast
Check in, grab breakfast, connect with fellow attendees, and get ready for a full day of learning and technology-focused conversations.
9:00–10:00 a.m.
General Session
Technology in Your Agency
Ron Harris | Omega Computer Services
Explore how technology fits into today's independent agency and where agencies can find opportunities to improve efficiency, security, and everyday operations.
10:00–11:00 a.m.
General Session
Turning AI into Real Value for Your Agency
Jerry Fetty | SMART IT Services
Move beyond the AI hype and explore practical ways agencies can use artificial intelligence to improve productivity, workflows, and day-to-day operations.
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
General Session
From AI Overload to Smart Decisions: How Agencies Evaluate and Adopt AI
Dale Steinke | Liberty Mutual
With a growing number of AI tools, vendors, and promises, many agencies struggle to know where to focus. This session helps leaders move past AI overload by adopting a problem‑first approach to evaluation and decision‑making. Dale Steinke shares a practical framework that agencies can use to prioritize use cases, assess vendor claims, and align AI investments with real business needs rather than hype.
12:00–1:30 p.m.
Lunch & Trade Show
Lunch, Networking & Exhibitors
Connect with fellow attendees and explore technology providers, industry partners, and solutions designed for independent agencies.
Afternoon Breakouts
3:30 –4:00 p.m.
General Session
Closing Recap and Shared Takeaways
Come back together to wrap up the day, share key takeaways from the breakout sessions, and hear what others learned along the way. We’ll highlight practical ideas, insights, and next steps you can take back to your agency.
Agenda and session details are subject to change.
Hotel Reservations
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort
Mt. Pleasant, Michigan
A special group room rate is available for Great Lakes Automation Day attendees.
Book online: Visit Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort , choose Book Stay, and use group code GLAD110226.
Book by phone: Call 877-232-4532 and reference group code GLAD110226.
Room block cutoff date: Monday, October 12, 2026.
Ready to Join Us?
Make plans to join Big I Michigan for Great Lakes Automation Day on November 3, 2026.
Registration: $150
Register Now