Session Update:
This session will help HR leaders better understand their critical role in managing workers’ compensation claims effectively. Attendees will learn why workers’ comp often falls under HR, explore common real‑world claim scenarios, and gain clarity on key concepts such as experience ratings, lost time, indemnity claims, and light‑duty accommodations. The presentation will also cover practical strategies for managing claims, reducing costs, supporting injured employees, and preventing claim exploitation, with actionable takeaways participants can apply immediately. Time will be reserved for Q&A throughout the session to address participant questions.
Session Details:
3:30 PM - session begins
4:30 PM - casual networking
About our Presenters:
Bejamin P. Wasche
Benjamin P. Wasche is the Managing Director and founder of Hamilton Monroe & Co., a boutique risk management and insurance consulting firm headquartered in Duluth, Minnesota. Since founding the company in 2017, Ben has led it with an unwavering client-first philosophy, providing holistic insights into business exposures, broad market perspective, practical and actionable strategies, and enduring client relationships. The firm specializes in comprehensive risk management solutions, including commercial insurance, surety and bonding, consulting and tailored advice to help businesses across the region.
With nearly two decades of dedicated experience in the insurance and risk management industry, Ben has built deep expertise in commercial insurance markets, policy analysis, claims advocacy, and proactive risk mitigation. He previously served as Area Assistant Vice President at Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Holding the CLCS (Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist) designation, Ben combines rigorous technical knowledge with a genuine commitment to personalized, transparent service that empowers clients to make informed decisions and protect their assets.
A proud Duluth resident, Ben is deeply devoted to his family life, raising three spirited young daughters: Paulina, Ruby, and Bennett, in the community he cherishes. He finds great joy in balancing his professional drive with the rewarding chaos and fulfillment of fatherhood; including coaching the girls on the soccer field.
Ben is guided by a profound passion for truth and genuineness in all aspects of life and work. He believes that strong relationships are built on honesty, transparency, and integrity; principles that define his approach to life.
John Acheson
John Acheson is a lifelong Duluth native. He first learned the value of hard work, customer service, and lasting relationships while growing up working at his family’s iconic Sammy’s Pizza in Lakeside; a business founded by his great-grandfather and carried forward through generations of the family.
After earning his degree in Entrepreneurship from the University of North Dakota, John gained hands-on experience in large-scale construction project management with The Boldt Company in Minnesota and Master Design Build in Chicago, where he coordinated complex VA and GSA projects.
For nearly a decade, John worked with the Entrepreneur Fund in Duluth in a Lending and Advisory role, guiding hundreds of small business owners through financing strategies, cash-flow optimization, debt restructuring, and long-term growth planning.
John brings that diverse background to his current role at Hamilton Monroe & Co., a Duluth-based boutique insurance and risk management firm. Working closely with a tight-knit team, he takes a hands-on, educational approach. John equips clients with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to truly understand and control their own risk.
A proud Lakeside resident, John and his wife Sarah are raising their young children, Rose and Sonny, in the same tight-knit neighborhood he grew up in. He treasures the daily joys of family life in Duluth and stays actively connected to the community through pickup hockey, golf, sailing, fishing, hunting, and playing music.
