Highlights from the Artisans Insurance Ltd. Board Meeting

Author, Lauren Stumpf, Marketing & Media Communications Specialist, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa’s Vice President of the Construction Group Sam Clayton attended Artisans Insurance Ltd. Board of Directors Meeting in Nassau, The Bahamas, during March 10-12, 2024.

Meeting attendees enjoyed a round of golf at the Jack Nicklaus Signature Royal Blue golf course, followed by board meetings and the Presidents Dinner on Tuesday night.

Artisans Insurance Ltd. is a member-owned group captive based in the Cayman Islands, comprising California trade contractors. 

“This is one of my favorite events to attend, seeing a group of like-minded contractors join together to share ideas is amazing,” said Sam Clayton.

Sam was joined by multiple Rancho Mesa clients in the engineering, foundation and shoring, mechanical contracting, painting, landscaping, and flooring industries.

Uniting the Team: Rancho Mesa Announces Move to New Office

Author, Megan Lockhart, Media Communications and Client Services Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

On Thursday, March 10th, the Rancho Mesa team gathered at the La Mesa Brigantine Seafood Restaurant to hear President Dave Garcia announce the company’s plan to move to a new office, located in Mission Valley.

Excitement flooded the room amid the appetizers and cocktails as Garcia outlined the long-awaited reuniting of the two offices into one space in April 2023.

“When I made the announcement I was blown away with the excitement I saw and felt from the group,” Garcia said. “They all have missed being together and can’t wait for next February when this becomes a reality.”

The presentation showed a video created by Media Communications and Client Services Manager, Alyssa Burley, which outlined the new features of the larger floor plan, one being the expansion of our safety and risk management network, StudioOne™. 

“I’m excited for the new office. We’re completely reimagining our StudioOne™ by incorporating new technology and improving its functionality. I can’t wait to see what the Media Communications and Client Services Group will accomplish in this new space,” Burley said.

The building includes a gym, outdoor seating area, and a rustic industrial interior. The location is also within walking distance of the Snapdragon Stadium, aka Aztec’s Stadium, where Rancho Mesa plans to hold meetings with clients in its box suit. 

The move marks an important goal achieved since 2019 when the team was divided into two offices. Garcia has worked hard since then to make the transition back into one office a reality.  

“I couldn’t be more excited to have everyone back together. This will not only enhance our abilities to serve our clients and their needs but allows our team to interact and grow on a daily basis,” Garcia said.

The presentation also featured words from Vice President Sam Clayton, and Account Manager Christina Haake who praised the work environment and employee opportunities Rancho Mesa offers.

“I was honored that he picked me to speak about the career opportunities that are offered here.  It's really incredible to see how much we’ve grown over the years, especially up to this point now that we're moving to such a bigger space,” Haake said. 

Rancho Mesa is thrilled to make this long anticipated announcement and looks forward to how it will benefit the company’s success as well as the clients we serve.

“Probably a little contrary to the current business climate as to the need for office space, we’ve taken the opposite position and are adding several thousand square feet to what we have now in two offices,” Garcia said.  “Everyone here believes very strongly that we will continue to grow at 15% a year and I for one am not about to doubt this amazing team and their abilities to make this happen.”

IIAB San Diego Hosts Celebrity Waiters Holiday Party for Charity

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications and Client Services Manager, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

For 31 years, the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of San Diego (IIAB San Diego) have hosted its Annual Celebrity Waiters Holiday Party for Charity. 

Industry leaders gathered on Friday, December 3, 2021 at the Bahia Resort Hotel on San Diego’s Mission Bay to raise funds for the Burn Institute and Healing Wave Aquatics.  Toys and canned foods were also collected for the El Nido Transitional Housing Program at Interfaith Shelter Network.

Rancho Mesa Vice Presidents Sam Clayton and Sam Brown along with Account Executives Kevin Howard and Amber Webb, Associate Account Executive Jack Marrs, Account Managers Christina Haake, John Parker, and Megan Smidt, with Account Coordinator Rachel Bristol celebrated the holidays and the spirit of giving while supporting the IIAB‘s efforts to raise awareness and much needed funds for local charities.

Sam Clayton, the outgoing IIAB San Diego President, introduced the incoming Board of Directors at the annual event. While his term nears its conclusion, it’s not the end to Rancho Mesa’s support of the philanthropic endeavors of the organization.

Rancho Mesa is proud to be a member of the IIAB San Diego.

IIAB Celebrates Another Successful I-Day

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications and Client Services, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa’s staff celebrated with Sam Clayton, the company’s Vice President of the Construction Group and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of San Diego (IIAB) President, at the annual Greater San Diego Insurance Day (I-DAY) on October 27, 2021.

I-DAY is known within the insurance industry as the largest one-day trade fair and seminar in California. The event hosted insurance companies, their agents, carriers, vendors, sponsors and others who support the industry.

The highlight of the event was the luncheon.

“It's hard to believe that we're finally here,” Sam began his address to a ballroom of industry leaders. “Our last I-DAY was almost two and a half years ago in April 2019. I just want to say thanks for being here and your support over the last 18 months. Without all of you in this room, there is no association.”

He acknowledged the efforts of past association presidents, current committee chairs and directors while adapting to the challenges brought on by the pandemic.

Despite pandemic restrictions, he mentioned the good that came from the last year.  

“We were able to raise over $7,000 for the Burn Institute,” Sam praised the membership for their efforts. “We were able to raise $5,000 for the San Diego Foundation's COVID 19 Response Fund.”

Guest speaker, MLB Studio analyst, and former outfielder/first baseman Mark Sweeney closed the luncheon with an inspirational talk about how certain people can change their lives.

The day was a success as Rancho Mesa staff was able to visit with long-time industry partners in the exhibit hall while learning about new players in the insurance space.

IIAB Hosts Annual Golf Day

Author, Lauren Stumpf, Media Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers (IIAB) of San Diego, also known as the Big “I", hosted A Day of Golf at Maderas in Poway, CA.

On October 8, 2020, players came out to support the IIAB San Diego and its contributions to the San Diego community.

Rancho Mesa team members, Daniel Frazee, Shane Medlin, Sam Clayton, Dave Garcia, Chase Hixson and Sam Brown showed their support while including Nick Shureen and David Winthers from Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies.

To keep players safe, rather than the traditional awards dinner following the event, winners were announced via email. Players still enjoyed delicious food, as they were provided with lunch that had been placed on their carts before the round began.

About IIAB San Diego

IIAB San Diego is a group of local insurance professionals dedicated to upholding the ideals of the American Agency System. Our Association is founded on mutual respect and support of its members. Through our Association, members access information necessary to further their business. The continuing work of our Association benefits our members, the insurance industry and the San Diego community at large. They stand ready to meet the challenges of both the present and the future through involvement in both profession and the community. To learn more, visit www.iiabsandiego.com.

Rancho Mesa Attends Annual NAWIC Golf Event

Author, Emily Marasso, Media Communications Assistant, Rancho Mesa Insurance, Services Inc.

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) San Diego Chapter held their annual golf tournament on August 27th, 2020 at the Twin Oaks Golf Course in San Marcos, California. This year’s event was conducted a little bit different to ensure safe social distancing between attendees. 

Rather than their traditional golf tournament where players can mingle before and after the round of golf,  they were all given specific tee times throughout the day. 

To reduce the size of attendees and to say “thank you” to past event sponsors, the event was by invitation only. Rancho Mesa’s Sam Clayton, Vice President of the Construction Group and Kevin Howard, Account Executive, showed their support alongside John Fischl from Sentry Insurance, and Mike Weimann from 24 Hour Express Plumbing & Services.

Players enjoyed individually packaged hand-crafted lunches prepared by the golf course’s snack bar and plenty of refreshments.

To participate in the event, each team donated an opportunity prize for this year’s drawing. Participants purchased drawing tickets to raise money for Rady’s Children’s Hospital and the NAWIC Education Foundation (NEF). 

Founded in Fort Worth, Texas by sixteen women, NAWIC’s core purpose is to “Strengthen and amplify the success of women in the construction industry.” For over 65 years they have been providing education, professional development, networking and more to their members.  Learn more at www.nawicsd.org.

NAWIC Today Magazine publishes Sam Clayton’s Cyber Threats Article

Author, Emily Marasso, Media Communications Assistant, Rancho Mesa Insurances Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa’s Sam Clayton, Vice President of the Construction Group, recently had an article published in the July/August 2020 issue of NAWIC Today, the National Association of Women in Construction's (NAWIC) official publication. This nationally-distributed magazine covers construction safety, technology, leadership and other important industry topics. Leading the CyberOne™ program for Rancho Mesa, Sam is has an extensive knowledge about how the construction industry can protect itself from losses due to cybercrimes.

Sam’s article titled “3 Cyber Threats of Employee Telecommuting” features helpful tips to minimize threats to businesses while many employees are currently working remote. Check out Volume 4/Number 4 of NAWIC Today for the full article.

Founded in Fort Worth, Texas by sixteen women, NAWIC’s core purpose is to “Strengthen and amplify the success of women in the construction industry.” For over 65 years they have been providing education, professional development, networking and more to their members. Rancho Mesa Insurance Services offers a CyberOne™ insurance program designed for NAWIC members.

Want even more information about cyber threats and how you can be prepared? Listen to our podcast StudioOne™ Safety and Risk Management Network on most major streaming platforms.

Edited 4/19/2021.

Support Our Local Construction Industry at the NAWIC 2nd Annual Toast to the Trades - March 6, 2020

Author, Alyssa Burley, Media Communications and Client Services Manager, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) San Diego Chapter will celebrate its annual Women in Construction (WIC) Week with its highly anticipated 2nd Annual Toast to the Trades dinner on March 6, 2020 at The Dana on Mission Bay Resort.

Local members of the construction industry, government, and general public will come together to celebrate the careers that build San Diego.

This year’s event will include dinner, drinks, a silent auction, networking, and a panel discussion on “Paving New Roads to Construction.” Proceeds from the event will benefit several youth programs designed to introduce young adults to careers in construction.

NAWIC San Diego’s 2nd Annual
‘Toast to the Trades’

Friday, March 6, 2020 at 5:30 pm
at The Dana on Mission Bay, San Diego, CA

ENJOY DINNER, SILENT AUCTION & PANEL DISCUSSION. ALL SILENT AUCTION PROCEEDS DONATED TO THE FUTURE CONSTRUCTION LEADERS FOUNDATION 501 (C) (3)NON-PROFIT.

This event is part of WIC Week (Women in Construction) with a goal to highlight women as a viable component of the construction industry. WIC Week is one of the many ways we involve and give back to our community.

Register Online

WIC Week provides an occasion for NAWIC’s thousands of members across the country to raise awareness of the opportunities available for women in construction and to emphasize the growing role of women in the industry.

“We must remove barricades and barriers, fill potholes, and pave smoother roads for women in a male-dominated industry and build one another up to help each other achieve success in our careers,” said Diane Mike, NAWIC 2019-2020 National President. “We can and we will change the future of this industry by becoming ingrained at every level of construction to provide a diverse voice.”

Purchase tickets or sponsor the event by visiting nawicsd.org/event.

Rancho Mesa’s Alyssa Burley, Shane Medlin, Sam Clayton, Tom Carapella (Sunrise Bobcat), and Kevin Howard at the 2019 Toast to the Trades event.

About National Association of Women in Construction San Diego Chapter
The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) San Diego Chapter, chartered on April 30, 1959, is very active and involved in the construction industry and the community. Each year the chapter participates in a variety of events including educational seminars and conferences, Women in Construction Week (WIC Week), Block Kids (construction awareness program for children in grades 1 thru 6), CAD/Design/Drafting Contest (High School student activity), Camp NAWIC (a week long program designed to mentor high school girls planning to enter the construction industry), college scholarships, joint meetings with other San Diego professional organizations and various activities with local charities. For more information, visit www.nawicsd.org.

Employee Spotlight: Sam Clayton and Jeremy Hoolihan Visit Lambeau Field with Sentry Insurance Company

Author, Lauren Stumpf, Media Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Rancho Mesa’s Sam Clayton, Vice President of the Construction Group, and Jeremy Hoolihan, Account Executive of the Construction Group, were the guests of Sentry Insurance Company at the Green Bay Packers vs. the Oakland Raiders game played on October 20, 2019. Sam and Jeremy were two of the four brokers selected from California for this amazing experience, based on Rancho Mesa’s relationship with Sentry.

Sam and Jeremy are pictured with Nic Hernandez, West Coast Underwriting Manager for Sentry, outside the historic Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

About Sentry
Sentry Insurance started in 1904 and has grown to become one of the largest, and financially secure mutual insurance companies in the nation. They have recently opened their West Coast Regional office in Irvine, CA. At Sentry, because they are a mutual insurance company, their business is built on a foundation of service to their policyholders. Although they’ve grown and changed a lot over the past 110 years, one thing hasn’t changed. They still work to serve policyholders, and to help their clients’ businesses thrive. For more information, visit www.sentry.com.

Rancho Mesa Bowls for Charity at IICF 12th Annual Tournament

Author, Lauren Stumpf, Media Communications Assistant, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

Pictured left to right: Sam Clayton, Jeremy Hoolihan, Yvonne Gallagher, and Christina Haake of Rancho Mesa.

On Thursday, October 3, 2019 the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF) put on their 12th Annual Bowling Tournament at Kearny Mesa Bowl.

Rancho Mesa’s Sam Clayton, Vice President of the Construction Group; Jeremy Hoolihan, Account Executive of the Construction Group; Yvonne Gallagher, Landscape Account Manager; and Christina Haake, Construction Account Manager, participated in the raffle, enjoyed delicious food, met fellow insurance professionals, and had fun bowling; all while contributing to a good cause! The annual event raises funds to support grants, volunteer service and leadership to local charities.

"The IICF Bowling for Charity event is always a blast," says Christina Haake, Construction Account Manager at Rancho Mesa. "Our Rancho Mesa team had such a great time competing in the tournament, but also catching up with our friends in the industry. We look forward to it every year."

About the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation
The Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF) is a unique nonprofit that unites the collective strengths of the insurance industry to help communities and enrich lives through grants, volunteer service and leadership. Established in 1994, IICF has contributed $36 million in community grants, along with 300,000 volunteer hours by more than 100,000 volunteers, to hundreds of charities and nonprofit organizations, reinvesting in local communities where funds are raised. To learn more, visit  www.iicf.org.