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A 3–4 minute read for project owners, finance leaders, and risk teams . Food & Agriculture companies are making some of the largest capital investments they’ve made in decades — new plants, expanded processing lines, cold storage facilities, and increasingly automated operations, that carry material financial and operational risk long before production ever begins. In today’s builders risk marketplace, insurance decisions made during construction can directly impact project timelines, cash flow, and long‑term balance sheet outcomes. Understanding current market dynamics — and whether tools like Owner‑Controlled Insurance Programs (OCIPs) belong in the conversation — has become a strategic necessity, not an administrative exercise.  Below is a concise view of the current builder’s risk market, the coverage details that most often drive outcomes, and a plain language overview of OCIPs — an option many organizations have heard of, but few have evaluated properly.  The Current Builders Risk Marketplace   The builders risk marketplace is showing meaningful signs of strength, particularly for well-structured food and agriculture construction projects. Capacity has continued to expand, and carriers are actively seeking quality opportunities involving experienced developers, disciplined contractors, and clearly defined project scopes. While underwriting remains detail oriented, competition has increased — creating tangible opportunities for project owners who engage the market early and present risk effectively.  Key market dynamics shaping today’s environment include:  Improved carrier appetite and expanded capacity for clean food and ag projects, especially those with strong loss controls and reputable construction partners.  Increased pricing competition on well‑defined projects, with carriers willing to differentiate through terms, sublimits, and coverage enhancements — not just premium.  Higher construction values driven by labor, material, and equipment costs, making accurate reporting and limit strategy more important than ever.  Heightened underwriting focus on water damage, phased occupancy, and project timelines, particularly for cold storage, automation‑heavy facilities, and specialty processing operations.  Opportunities for broader coverage grants when owners can clearly articulate commissioning plans, equipment testing protocols, and contingency strategies.  For organizations willing to approach builders risk placement as a strategic exercise rather than a transactional purchase, the current market environment is favorable. Well‑positioned projects are seeing better outcomes across pricing, structure, and coverage — while less prepared risks are increasingly exposed to restrictive terms or late‑stage underwriting friction. The difference lies in how deliberately the project and its insurance strategy are aligned from the outset.    Key Coverage Considerations When Evaluating Builders Risk Options   In today’s builders risk environment, coverage structure often matters as much as pricing. For food and agriculture projects — where margins, timelines, and equipment performance are tightly linked — small coverage decisions made during construction can create outsized financial consequences after a loss. A thoughtful review should focus not only on what is covered, but how and when coverage responds.  Several areas warrant particular attention:   Soft costs and delay‑in‑completion coverage, designed to protect against lost revenue, continued fixed expenses, and additional financing or operational costs caused by covered delays. These exposures are frequently underestimated — and often uncovered — until a setback occurs.  Equipment testing and commissioning coverage, which is critical for projects involving automated processing lines, refrigeration systems, or specialty equipment where losses often surface during startup rather than construction.  Catastrophe protections such as flood, wind, and earthquake, which remain highly location‑dependent and are commonly subject to sublimits, waiting periods, or restrictive conditions that vary widely by carrier.  Coverage for materials in transit, off‑site storage, and temporary works, all of which are essential on projects facing supply chain disruptions or phased delivery schedules.  A clearly defined project period, including provisions for early occupancy, partial handover, or phased startup — scenarios that can unintentionally terminate or limit coverage if not addressed upfront.  These coverage details are not academic. They determine whether a builders risk policy meaningfully protects the project’s financial outcome — or simply satisfies a contractual requirement. In many cases, the most impactful improvements come not from changing carriers, but from asking better questions earlier in the process.  What Is an OCIP — and How Can It Benefit Your Project?  An Owner Controlled Insurance Program (OCIP) is a project‑specific insurance program purchased and managed by the project owner. Instead of each contractor and subcontractor providing their own insurance, key coverage is consolidated under a single, coordinated program for the duration of the project. Most utilized for General & Excess Liability.  For large food and agriculture construction projects — particularly those involving multiple contractors, long timelines, or phased expansions — OCIPs can offer a more intentional way to manage cost, coverage consistency, and risk across the entire jobsite. While not appropriate for every project, OCIPs are often overlooked simply because they are unfamiliar.  When structured correctly, OCIPs can deliver meaningful advantages, including:  Cost efficiency, by eliminating overlapping contractor insurance premiums that are otherwise built into project bids.  Uniform coverage terms and limits, ensuring all parties on the project operate under the same insurance structure, without gaps or inconsistencies.  Centralized claims management, providing greater visibility, faster resolution, and clearer accountability if an incident occurs.  Enhanced loss control and safety oversight, supported by a single, coordinated program rather than fragmented contractor approaches.  Predictable insurance budgeting, particularly beneficial for large, multi‑year or multi‑phase facility expansion plans.  OCIPs are not a one size‑fits‑all solution. Their value depends on project size, complexity, contractor mix, and risk tolerance. However, when evaluated thoughtfully and early in the planning process, they can be a powerful tool for aligning insurance strategy with broader project objectives — an option that many organizations never fully explore because their broker never brings it to the table.  Closing Perspective  Construction projects represent more than bricks, steel, and equipment — they represent capital at work and growth in motion. In a builders risk marketplace that continues to evolve, and with delivery models like OCIPs becoming more relevant for complex projects, the most successful owners are those who treat insurance as part of the planning process, not an afterthought. Evaluating market conditions, coverage structure, and alternative approaches early can help reduce friction, control cost, and protect outcomes long before a facility comes online.  At Cottingham & Butler, we work extensively with food and agriculture organizations navigating large construction projects, facility expansions, and multi‑phase developments. Our role is not simply to place insurance, but to help clients understand how market dynamics, coverage details, and program structure intersect with their broader project and financial objectives. For companies with a project on the horizon, a forward-looking conversation can often surface opportunities and considerations that traditional, transactional approaches miss — creating clarity, confidence, and better alignment as ground is broken.  If you have a facility project upcoming — or even in early planning — we’re always available to pressure test the insurance strategy, identify potential gaps, and outline options worth considering.

Staying compliant in 2026 means keeping pace with a benefits landscape that isn't slowing down. From new legislation and regulatory updates to evolving employer obligations, the details matter, and missing them can be costly. Our 2026 Compliance On-Demand Series is designed to keep you informed, prepared, and confident heading into every quarter. Check out the full recordings of past webinars below! Want to catch us live? Check out our upcoming webinars! ACA Employer Reporting Check out our latest webinar on ACA employer reporting, held right in the midst of the 2025 filing season. We walked through the key requirements for Forms 1094 and 1095 and highlighted common pitfalls, best practices, and practical tips to ensure accurate, complete, and compliant reporting. ERISA Fiduciary Duties This session is on ERISA fiduciary duties for health and welfare plans, designed to help employers understand their obligations as plan sponsors. We reviewed key ERISA requirements, highlight common compliance pitfalls, and shared practical best practices to minimize fiduciary risk.  Navigating Employer-Sponsored Coverage & Medicare During this time we discuss how Medicare interacts with employer-sponsored health plans, an increasingly important topic as more employees continue working past age 65. We broke down eligibility and enrollment timing for Medicare Parts A, B, and D, clarify how Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) rules impact group plan coordination, and highlight key considerations such as HSA eligibility, COBRA timing, and employer premium reimbursements.

Where did you attend college, and what was your major? I attended Clarke University and received a degree in Business Administration! How did you first hear about Cottingham & Butler and the intern program? I toured Cottingham & Butler during my freshman year in an introduction to business class. Nikki Goodchild was the campus recruiter at the time and gave our class a presentation in the lower level of the building. I left the site visit and immediately told all my friends and family that it was my dream to work at Cottingham & Butler someday. I knew the internship program was very competitive so I completed three different internships after that freshman classroom visit to prepare. In the fall of my junior year, I interviewed and was offered an internship position with Human Resources.  Describe your experience in the Cottingham & Butler internship program. What did you learn during the program that you still use today in your full-time position? My internship experience was life-changing. I had a whole team of individuals who helped me complete my final project to highlight my hard work and eagerness to work at the company full-time. The internship pushes you outside your comfort zone, provides real-world experiences, and prepares you for a career after college. I still use the organization skills, presentation concepts, and meeting etiquette that I learned from the internship experience every day. The internship taught me to jump in and never give up, which I feel is a lifelong lesson. I also made incredible friends that I'm still close with to this day. In short, the internship was my launchpad to a fulfilling professional career. What’s your favorite memory from your time as an intern?  My favorite memory from the internship was a Saturday afternoon river float down the Maquoketa River. Our internship class was very close and we wanted to spend time outside of work making memories. We spent the afternoon on the river laughing and enjoying our time together.  What do you think the Cottingham & Butler internship program offers that other internships don’t? The Cottingham & Butler internship allows you to work on real projects that will impact the company. I completed a benefits benchmark survey that involved 30 other companies both local and nationwide. It was utilized both internally to vet our benefits package and with our employee benefits division for their client analysis. The project was referenced for years after its completion and had a major impact on our offerings. The internship helps you understand what a real job will be like after college and provides you with a team that cares about you and your success.  What drew you back to Cottingham & Butler after graduation?  After my internship, I stayed on part-time through my last semester of school to help the Human Resources team. I continued to learn more about Human Resources and ultimately started full-time after graduation as a Human Resources Generalist. I loved the team and the company as a whole, so it was no surprise I wanted to stay on for the future. I had also attended college in Dubuque and loved the city, so I was excited to begin my life as a young adult in Cottingham & Butler and Dubuque.  How have you seen yourself evolve as a professional at Cottingham & Butler?  I began my career as a Human Resources Generalist, but have experienced a lot of growth in my time here. I eventually advanced to Benefits & Payroll Specialist, then Human Resources Supervisor, and finally my current role as Human Resources Manager. Cottingham & Butler continuously pushes you to the next level and rewards hard work. I didn't know a single thing about Human Resources when I began my internship and now I'm considered one of the experts on the Human Resources team . I know I want to continue my career at Cottingham & Butler because I'm truly in love with my job. This is a company that continues to grow, and so opportunities are endless.  What do you love most about your current role?  My favorite part of my position is providing resources to employees so they can be successful in their careers. In Human Resources, we like to say that our "clients" are the employees of Cottingham & Butler. We're an integral part of the company's story. Every day we're faced with new challenges — no days look the same. The people at this company make me want to come in every day and do my best. Why should college students consider the Cottingham & Butler internship program?  The Cottingham & Butler internship is a first-class program. You work on projects and immerse yourself in the day-to-day of a real company. The people of Cottingham & Butler are there to enhance your skillset and to challenge you to be the best version of yourself. You have a community that is unmatched and resources to prepare you for a career of a lifetime.

A leading provider of risk management and employee benefits insurance & consulting services for domestic and international markets. Better Every Day That is our promise to our clients, company, and people. It’s a commitment to challenging conventional wisdom, innovating, and improving how we serve our clients and grow as industry professionals. 3rd largest privately and independently held insurance broker in the U.S. At Cottingham & Butler, we sell a promise – to show up and deliver for our clients during life’s toughest moments. Every day, we pair brilliant ideas with strategy, empathy and hard work that produces results that are the rival of the industry. SEE HOW WE HELPED BUSINESSES LIKE YOURS Trusted Insurance Advisors Cottingham & Butler is a privately-held, national insurance broker, and a leading provider of risk management and employee benefits insurance & consulting services. Property & Casualty Employee Benefits Solutions Captives & Programs Safety Management Services Claims Management Featured Insights Transportation Outlook: Understanding Tariff Impacts on Freight Markets In today's evolving trade environment, Cottingham & Butler is committed to providing transportation leaders with actionable economic insights. Recent tariff policies represent a major shift that will reshape freight patterns, client relationships, and business planning for trucking companies nationwide. Our analysis highlights several critical economic signals transportation executives should monitor when developing strategies for the coming 12-18 months. Articles Builders Risk Insurance and OCIPs: Practical Market Insight for Food & Ag Construction Projects Articles Compliance Webinars – On-Demand Library News Construction Risk Insights | Ensuring Roadway Safety in Work Zones Articles VIEW ALL INDUSTRY NEWS & EVENTS “The relationship that we have, and have always had, with Cottingham & Butler is trust. We listen to them, and they haven’t steered us wrong yet. Without Cottingham & Butler, it’d be hard for us to be where we are today.” David Freymiller | CEO, Freymiller People Who Make A Difference What makes Cottingham & Butler so special? It’s simple – our people. Our team is made up of extraordinarily talented individuals who consistently prioritize the success of our clients and their teammates, working to achieve the very best in everything they do. EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES

Cottingham & Butler Mastering Your Resume: A Guide for College Graduates Up Published on Written by: Page View January 1, 2024 Cottingham & Butler As you prepare to transition from college to the professional world, creating a compelling resume is key for landing your dream job. Your resume serves as your personal marketing tool, showcasing your skills, experiences, and qualifications to potential employers. Here's a complete guide to help you master and maximize your resume as a recent college graduate: Start with a Strong Heading: Open your resume with a clear and professional heading that includes your full name, contact information, and optionally, your LinkedIn profile URL. Make sure your email address is professional and avoid using nicknames or unprofessional handles. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Follow your heading with a brief personal statement that highlights your career goals, key skills, and what you bring to the table as a candidate. Tailor this section to the specific role or industry you're targeting and keep it brief but impactful. Highlight Your Education: As a recent graduate, your education section should be prominently featured on your resume. Include the name of your institution, the name of your degree, your major/minor, graduation date (or expected graduation date), any academic honors or awards you've received, and optionally, your GPA. Showcase Relevant Experience: Next, outline your relevant work experience, internships, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. Focus on experiences that are directly related to the job you're applying for and use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate tangible results. Be sure to list the most to least recent. Emphasize Transferable Skills: Highlight transferable skills gained through your coursework, internships, and extracurricular activities that are applicable to the job you're seeking. These may include communication skills, leadership abilities, problem-solving capabilities, and teamwork. Include Additional Sections as Needed: Depending on your background and experiences, consider adding additional sections to your resume, such as relevant coursework, certifications, professional affiliations, athletics, clubs and organizations, language proficiency, or technical skills. Only include sections that elevate your application and are relevant to the job you're applying for. Proofread and Format Professionally: Before submitting your resume, thoroughly proofread it to check for any spelling or grammatical errors. Additionally, ensure that your resume is formatted professionally and consistently, using clear headings, bullet points, and an easy-to-read font, but also don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Keep your resume length to one page whenever possible. Seek Feedback and Revise: Don't hesitate to seek feedback on your resume from trusted mentors, career advisors, or other professionals. Incorporate their suggestions and revise your resume accordingly to ensure it’s polished and effective. Submitting and Sharing Your Resume: Once your resume is finalized, it's time to submit it to your potential employer. Follow the application instructions provided in the job posting, whether it's through an online application portal, email, or mail. Additionally, consider sharing your resume with your network of contacts, including family, friends, professors, and alumni. Networking can often lead to valuable job opportunities and referrals. By following these tips and strategies, you'll be well-equipped to create a standout resume that effectively showcases your strengths and accomplishments as a recent college graduate. Good luck on your job search journey! Discover exciting career opportunities at Cottingham & Butler today! Whether you're seeking a full-time position or internship opportunity, we're always eager to welcome talented young professionals like you to our team. View All Posts TAGS: Article Cottingham & Butler Upcoming Events IN-PERSON April 15, 2026 Metalcasting Congress Happy Hour Attending the Metalcasting Congress 2026 in Grand Rapids? Don’t miss the chance to relax and connect with fellow industry professionals at an exclusive evening hosted by Cottingham & Butler. Register Now! Register Now! WEBINAR June 18, 2026 Nondiscrimination Rules Differentiating benefits can be a strategic tool for employers — but not all differences are allowed. This webinar will help employers understand when and how they can differentiate benefit programs while staying compliant. In this session, we'll break down the various nondiscrimination requirements that apply to employee benefit plans, including tax code testing rules for highly compensated and key employees and protections against discrimination based on health status, disability, and other protected characteristics. Register Now! Register Now! WEBINAR May 21, 2026 Leaves of Absence: Focus on State Mandates As leave laws evolve, administering employee benefits during protected and unpaid leaves has become increasingly nuanced. In this session, we'll break down employer obligations, benefit continuation requirements, and key decision points when coordinating federal, state, and company leave policies. Special focus will be given to how expanding state paid leave programs are reshaping employer responsibilities and compliance strategies. Register Now! Register Now! 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We help clients lower their total cost of risk by challenging the status quo, solving complex business problems and delivering creative insurance solutions. Our technical expertise and proprietary programs, combined with our commitment to client service is the foundation of the value we bring to our clients every day. Article Mastering Your Resume: A Guide for College Graduates Read More On-Demand Webinar OSHA Reporting and Recordkeeping Compliance Updates Read More Article Managing a "Hard" Insurance Market Read More Case Study Leveraged best practices and good loss experience to return $80,000 year after year Read More Article HR’s Role in Mergers and Acquisitions Read More Article Coverage Basics: Cyber Insurance Read More Case Study Providing a Better Open Enrollment Solution Read More Case Study A 33% Decrease to Health Insurance Spend in 3 Years Read More Article Bond Producer vs. Surety Advisor: Beyond the Bond Read More