• California: Russell Zimmerman, Nipomo High School
• Delaware: Mark Breeding, Caesar Rodney High School
• Iowa: Zach Morris, West Liberty High School
• Illinois: Joe Steffen, Newark High School
• Indiana: Lynnette Markley, Argos High School
• Kansas: Dr. Kelly Hoelting, Mission Valley High School
• Kentucky: Ben Prevette, Hopkins County Central High School
• Maryland: Becky Yost, Northern High School
• Missouri: Jarred Sayre, Milan C‑2 High School
• Nebraska: Tony Jensen, Freeman High School
• New York: Mary Coolbaugh, Marcus Whitman Central School
• Ohio: Alex Zimmer, Buckeye Valley High School
• Pennsylvania: Doug Masser, Pequea Valley High School
• South Dakota: Dave VanderWal, De Smet High School
• Utah: Chad Warnick, Delta High School 

Nationwide partnered with state FFA organizations to establish the Golden Owl Award in 2018 to highlight the growing importance of agricultural educators and recognize those who go above and beyond to support students pursuing careers in agriculture, agribusiness and environmental stewardship. Since its inception, the program has supplied more than $800,000 to support teachers, students, school agricultural programs and FFA organizations. The award has expanded each year due to popularity, adding Delaware and Utah in 2025 to its growing list of participating states.

As grand prize winners, the teachers earn the title of their state’s Ag Educator of the Year, the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy, and $3,000 in funding to help bring new opportunities to their programs.

“These outstanding teachers exemplify passion and devotion to shaping the future of their communities,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Their tireless efforts inspire the next generation of agriculture leaders, and we’re proud to recognize their invaluable contributions as Ag Educators of the Year.”

Each year, the selected finalists, chosen by established state committees, are awarded $500¹ in recognition of their contributions. Nationwide also contributes $5,000 to each of the participating state FFA organizations.

To see a complete list of partners, read more about the state honorees, see past winners or learn about the nomination process in select states, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.


^{1 Ohio finalists will receive a personalized plaque and $1,500 to fund their programs. Ohio’s Ag Educator of the Year title will receive the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy and an additional $5,000 to help fund future educational efforts for their program. Ohio’s partners, Farm Credit Mid-America and AgCredit, provided funding for the increase in prize money. In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winner’s school ag program.}

Nationwide has named Roberto Robles leader of Nationwide National Partners, effective Aug. 3, 2026.

In this role, Robles will lead Nationwide’s executive-level relationships with key national property and casualty distribution firms, serving as a connection point between partner leadership, Nationwide business units and the broader enterprise.

“Roberto brings a strong blend of carrier and broker experience, along with a valuable outside-in perspective on distribution and complex risk,” said Russ Johnston, president of Commercial Lines, Excess & Surplus, Specialty. “He is known for building strong partnerships and high-performing teams, and we’re confident his leadership will help strengthen our national partner relationships and support our continued growth.”

Robles joins Nationwide from Willis Towers Watson, where he most recently served as managing director of carrier relationship management. Prior to that, he held senior business development and distribution leadership roles at Sompo and Chubb, where he led national partner relationships, managed large specialty books and helped launch growth initiatives across the business.

With more than two decades of industry experience, Robles brings deep expertise in distribution strategy, partner engagement and complex risk. His appointment reflects Nationwide’s continued focus on strengthening strategic partnerships and making more coordinated, data-informed decisions with key distribution partners.

Robles holds an MBA from Clarkson University School of Business and a bachelor’s degree from St. Lawrence University.

After more than four decades of leadership and service, Jeff Rommel, senior vice president, Personal Lines Operations, will retire from Nationwide on Jan. 31, 2027.

Rommel joined Allied Insurance, a Nationwide company, in 1985 as a claims representative. During his 41-year tenure with Nationwide, he has held various leadership positions across claims, sales, distribution and operations.

Since assuming the role of senior vice president of Personal Lines Operations in October 2024, Rommel has helped transform the experience Nationwide delivers by advancing service, ease and trust, while helping the organization sharpen its focus on customer outcomes and build capabilities that contributed to industry-leading experiences.

Throughout his career, Rommel’s deep knowledge of the Personal Lines value chain has helped deliver the company’s mission to protect people, businesses and futures with extraordinary care.

“Jeff’s leadership has made a lasting impact on our company and on the people who have worked alongside him,” said Mark Berven, president and COO, Property & Casualty for Nationwide. “Jeff helped lead the business through important moments with a steady hand, a clear focus on our customers and a commitment to building strong teams.”

Beyond his service at Nationwide, Rommel has been an active and dedicated member of his community throughout his career.  He has served in various Board roles and collaborated closely with community partners including the Greater Des Moines Partnership, Food Bank of Iowa, United Way of Central Iowa, ICON Water Trails, Science Center of Iowa, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation of Greater Iowa and the Vaughan Institute Advisory Board.

The search for a new leader of Personal Lines Operations is underway.

About the award: The JD Power 2026 U.S. Auto Insurance Study measures customer satisfaction with auto insurance in 11 geographic regions. A separate category that addresses UBI, along with diagnostics that influence UBI participants’ experience with their insurer’s usage-based auto products, ranks Nationwide as the top auto insurer for usage-based insurance.

What we’re saying: “Nationwide recognizes that customers want insurance solutions that are as smart and connected as the world around them,” said Casey Kempton, President, P&C Personal Lines for  Nationwide. “Usage-based insurance delivers that by combining technology, innovation and practical insights to help drivers improve habits and make roadways safer for everyone.”

Starting “Smart” in 2012: Nationwide launched its first UBI product, SmartRide®² in 2012 followed by SmartMiles® ³ in 2019 as options for drivers seeking products that personalize rates based on driving habits.

• SmartRide® measures specific driving behaviors and provides real-time feedback to encourage safer driving decisions. Personalized results can lead to insurance premium discounts up to 40%.
• SmartMiles® is pay-per-mile insurance with a flexible monthly rate based on miles driven.

Beyond UBI: Nationwide rolled out the Focused Driving Rewards® (FDR) program⁴, a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to help reduce phone-related distractions and reward safe driving with e-gift cards from popular retailers. The program is open to all drivers, not just Nationwide customers.  

Where usage-based insurance is headed: Nationwide sees usage-based insurance as the foundation for smarter, more personalized protection. Through advanced telematics, it aims to deliver coverage tailored to each customer’s lifestyle while promoting safety, transparency, and trust. The goal is to make insurance feel more like a partnership that rewards safe, responsible driving.

Go deeper: Learn more about usage-based insurance from Nationwide. 

¹ Nationwide received the highest score in the Usage Based Insurance (UBI) segment of the JD Power 2024-2026 U.S. Auto Insurance Study,^SM of customers’ satisfaction with their auto insurance provider. Visit jdpower.com/awards for more details.

² Availability varies; program criteria differs in California and North Carolina. Stated discounts are approximations. Discounts do not apply to all coverage elements; actual savings, availability, and program criteria vary by state, coverage selections, rating factors, and policy changes. Enrollment discount applies until a driving behavior discount can be calculated, which could be zero. Driving behavior discount is applied to a policy when all drivers have activated the SmartRide Mobile app within 30 days of the policy’s effective date and the app remains active for 80 days. All discounts are subject to change based upon actuarial support and driving behavior at subsequent renewals or with changes in drivers or vehicles on the policy.

In Virginia and Washington, the discount may decrease at renewal based on changes in driving behavior. In Michigan and Washington, the driving behavior discount is applied at renewal.

³ Program information reflects SmartMiles in Arizona, Ohio, Oregon and Nebraska. Details and availability vary by state, policy original effective date and other factors. SmartMiles variable premium is based upon the Cost Per Mile established for the coverages in force and the number of days and miles driven when the coverage is in force. Cost Per Mile may vary monthly based on driving trends. Estimated premium is subject  change based upon final rated mileage during the mileage period and policy changes.

⁴ Focused Driving Rewards is not currently available in AK, CA, HI, LA, MA, NY or OK.  Drivers 29 years and younger can earn up to $60 every 6 months. Drivers 30 years and older can earn $2.50 every 2 weeks, up to $30 every 6 months. Focused Driving Rewards is not insurance and does not require the purchase of a policy or a quote. Participation is optional and subject to terms and conditions. Nationwide may terminate the program at any time.

Why it matters
Based on analysis of claims resulting from an auto collision, Nationwide found that a driver is 3.5 times more likely to be involved in a crash when driving distracted. 

Iowa drivers are showing measurable behavior change since the law took effect on July 1, 2025. The data suggests that an education campaign, a six-month warning period, and full enforcement effective January 1, 2026, have contributed to more drivers putting the phone down and focusing on the road.

By the numbers
Analytics derived from mobile telematics found that phone-related distraction among Nationwide-insured drivers in Iowa dropped in several key behaviors over the last year.

• 13.6% reduction on screen-tapping interactions since full enforcement, an improvement from 5.9% during warning period
• 9.1% reduction in handheld calling since full enforcement, an improvement from 8.2% during warning period
• During full enforcement, Iowa drivers logged about 140,700 fewer phone-motion events than expected based on pre-law driving behavior 

Nationwide Methodology
The analysis above is based on anonymized, opt-in mobile telematics data used to evaluate changes in phone-related distraction among Iowa drivers before and after the state’s hands-free law took effect from July 1, 2025 to June 15, 2026.

Additional insights from CMT, which include distracted driving data from over 30 safe driving programs across the U.S., show from July 2025 to May 2026:

• 85 of Iowa’s 99 counties saw decreases in phone motion
  • Among the state’s 10 largest counties, nine experienced reductions of at least 4% and Iowa’s largest county, Polk County, decreased distraction by 9.2%.
• Top-performing counties achieved reductions in distraction ranging from 13% to 17% with biggest improvements seen in Ringgold, Page, Calhoun, Wayne, and Lyon.
• The reduction in distraction has helped Iowa prevent an estimated 470 crashes, 210 injuries, 3 fatalities, and $20.3 million in economic damage¹.

Together, the Nationwide and CMT findings point to the same conclusion: Iowa drivers are showing measurable reductions in risky phone-related behavior since the law took effect.

The big picture
“Promoting responsible driving behavior through legislative advocacy and safe driving programs like SmartRide and Focused Driving Rewards is an ongoing priority for Nationwide,” said Casey Kempton, President, P&C Personal Lines for Nationwide. “Meaningful change can happen when like-minded partners come together, and we commend Iowa’s Department of Public Safety and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau for their continued commitment to positively influence distracted-driving behaviors among drivers across the state.”  

"Distracted driving is one of the most preventable dangers on our roads, and Iowa has shown the nation that change is within reach," said William V. Powers, Co-Founder and CEO of CMT. “This is the future of road safety: proactive, measurable, and lifesaving. If the rest of the country follows Iowa's lead, we can save tens of thousands of lives and redefine what it means to be safe behind the wheel."

About the law
Governor Kim Reynolds signed Iowa’s Hands-Free Driving Law on April 2, 2025, making Iowa the 31^st state in the nation to enact hands-free legislation. Since the law’s effective date July 1, 2025, the Iowa State Patrol and local law enforcement agencies have been educating motorists on what constitutes distracted driving and how to comply with the law.   

“As we approach the one-year mark for enacting Iowa’s hands-free law, it is exciting to see Nationwide's data showing a reduction of in-vehicle phone usage across the state of Iowa,” says Iowa State Patrol Colonel Nathan Fulk.  “This progress reflects the collaborative efforts from our law enforcement personnel, safety advocates, and our private partners, like Nationwide.  Most importantly, it highlights Iowans who have demonstrated safe driving behavior and embraced the message that no text, call or notification is worth risking a life.”

Visit DriveSmartIowa.com for more information about Iowa’s Hands-Free Driving Law and tips for avoiding distractions while driving.

¹ Estimates are based on changes in crash rates from distracted driving, combined with the average crash cost of $23,954 from NHTSA’s report The Economic and Societal Impact of Motor Vehicle Crashes, 2019, and 2022 crash records reported by the State of Iowa.

To help farm operators keep pace, Nationwide has launched new drone coverage options designed specifically for farm customers. The offering is believed to be among the first comprehensive insurance packages available for farm operations, combining property, liability and aerial application protection.

The costs—and risks—of drone use

Agricultural drones represent a significant investment for producers. Smaller scouting drones used for aerial imaging and mapping can cost several thousand dollars, while larger drones used for spraying and seeding can exceed $30,000. Beyond the equipment itself, operating drones for agricultural purposes often requires Federal Aviation Administration certification, pesticide application licensing, specialized training and adherence to strict safety protocols.

Drone use can also introduce new risk exposures that traditional farm policies do not typically cover. For example, aerial application incidents involving chemical overspray or drift can result in significant property damage, crop loss or liability claims. A drone malfunction or operator error could also cause damage to nearby property or even result in bodily injury.

Comprehensive protection for agricultural drones

Nationwide’s new coverage options are designed to help close potential insurance gaps by providing:

• Property coverage for physical damage to drones and related operating equipment used in farm operations
• Liability coverage for damage or injury caused during precision agriculture activities such as aerial imaging, mapping and data acquisition
• Application of farm chemicals coverage for damage or injury arising from aerial application of covered substances, including chemicals and seed

“The use of drones across agriculture has grown significantly, increasing the need for protection that addresses both the value of the equipment and the risks tied to operating it,” said Justin Owens, AVP of Farm Underwriting & Sales, Nationwide. “We’re proud to begin offering these new coverage options, which help give farmers confidence to incorporate drone technology into their operations while knowing they have protection in place if something goes wrong.”

Learn more about Nationwide’s agricultural drone coverage or contact a Farm Certified Agent for additional information.

Nationwide’s customers can now receive preferred pricing on Barn Owl hardware, along with access to exclusive early bird promotions throughout the year. Barn Owl also offers additional savings off each extra camera, making it easier to scale coverage across an operation.

“Farmers and ranchers often have valuable equipment, livestock and infrastructure spread across wide areas, and it’s not always practical to be everywhere at once,” said Vicente Rico, agribusiness risk management product development lead at Nationwide. “Our relationship with Barn Owl strengthens Nationwide’s commitment to helping customers predict and prevent losses by giving them another practical, easy-to-use tool to monitor their operations, deter theft and respond more quickly when something needs attention.”

With simple cellular setup, solar power and rugged, no-wiring installation, Barn Owl cameras let customers monitor animals, equipment, buildings, gates and other remote assets from anywhere. Barn Owl also offers options ranging from high-definition photos and videos with real-time alerts to livestreaming with audio, along with contract-free plans designed to fit different monitoring needs.

“We built our cameras and platform for the realities of operating a rural business, where simplicity and reliability matter,” said Josh Phifer, founder and CEO at Barn Owl. “Partnering with Nationwide lets us put our tech in the hands of more farmers and ranchers, so they can keep an eye on what matters most and act fast when it counts. We're proud to work alongside a company that shares our focus on providing peace of mind, cost savings, and reliability to the hard-working people of rural America.”

The new relationship adds to Nationwide’s growing suite of Ag Tech risk management solutions available to customers, with offerings ranging from remote monitoring and fleet management tools to fire suppression and thermal imaging technology.

To learn more about the Barn Owl partnership, view Nationwide’s Ag Tech solutions webpage or contact your Nationwide agent.

Photo credit: Barn Owl

As pressures mount, more farmers and agribusiness operators are turning to technology to help identify problems earlier, improve decision-making and prevent avoidable losses before they happen.

“Nationwide’s risk management technology partnerships are helping producers move from reactive risk management to proactive risk prevention,” said Vicente Rico, risk management product development lead for Nationwide Agribusiness. “The goal is not just helping customers recover after a loss, but helping them avoid the loss altogether.”

Detecting Risks Before Disaster Strikes
A routine visit between farm certified agent Ron Panichelle and dairy customer Lone Oak Farms helped uncover a hidden electrical issue that could have led to a catastrophic fire.

While scanning breaker boxes with thermal imaging technology from Teledyne FLIR, Panichelle identified a breaker reaching temperatures above 400 degrees during corn drying season. The issue was repaired before it could ignite and disrupt the farm’s operation.

“We were able to continue with minimal downtime,” said Matthew Carr of Lone Oak Farms. “It could’ve been a lot worse.”

Improving Safety Behind the Wheel
As Velvet Ice Cream expanded its fleet operations, the company turned to video telematics technology to improve driver safety and accountability.

According to company president Luconda Dager, the technology helped significantly reduce driving incidents while also helping quickly resolve accident investigations.

“Razor Tracking has been a game changer for us,” Dager said. “Within like a month and a half, we went from double digit incidences down to like two.”

Preventing Small Fires From Becoming Major Losses
Equipment fires during harvest and baling season can escalate quickly, damaging machinery and interrupting operations.

That reality became clear for Tim Bauman of Bauman Farms after a fire started on his tractor while baling hay. Just weeks earlier, his agent, Keenan Rice of Eclipse Insurance Agency, had provided Enforcer One’s Firebull fire extinguishers through a Nationwide-supported initiative.

The extinguisher allowed Bauman to suppress the flames long enough to disconnect his baler and prevent the fire from spreading further.

“Probably 50 to 60 thousand [dollars] in value was able to be saved,” Rice said.

Supporting Agriculture Beyond the Policy

Nationwide continues to expand its risk management technology partnerships, giving agriculture businesses access to tools and services that help identify risks, improve safety and support operational efficiency.

For agents like Rice and Panichelle, these partnerships and loss prevention resources reflect a broader commitment to helping customers protect their operations, prevent avoidable losses and build stronger businesses over time.

To help address this trend, Nationwide established the Golden Owl Award in partnership with state FFA organizations to celebrate excellence in agricultural education and invest directly in programs that help keep learning accessible for students across the country. 

Following more than 4,900 nominations across 15 states for the 2025–2026 Golden Owl Award, Nationwide and its partners are proud to honor 107 educators as finalists. 

California: 

• Shelby Fishman, Atwater High School
• Jennifer Knight, Clovis-East High School
• Robyn Payne, Sunset High School
• Russell Zimmerman, Nipomo High School
• Tara Meade, El Capitan High School
• Heather Thomas, Colusa High School 

Delaware:  

• Holly Hufford, Smyrna Middle School
• Stefanie Freimuth, Smyrna Middle School
• Karen Breeding, Woodbridge High School
• Kellie Michaud, Smyrna High School
• Lauren Ruskey, Caesar Rodney High School
• Mark Breeding, Caesar Rodney High School 

Iowa: 

• Malayne Meyer, Osage High School
• Krystal Wright, Benton Community High School
• Tyler Wingert, Ridge View High School
• Allison Reuvers, Colfax‑Mingo High School
• Zach Morris, West Liberty High School
• Ben Booth, IKM-Manning High School
• Barb Clawson, Iowa State University 

Illinois: 

• Scott Riden, United High School
• Joe Steffen, Newark High School
• Steve Sargeant, Bushnell‑Prairie City High School
• Betsy Burgener, Central A&M High School
• Curt Robbins, Fairfield Community High School
• Jay Solomonson, Illinois State University 

Indiana: 

• Lynnette Markley, Argos High School
• Michael Jones, Tippecanoe Valley High School
• Rebekah Peterson, DeKalb High School
• Mike Shirey, Heritage High School
• Chris Kaufman, Westfield High School
• ZoeAnn Chernowsky, Blue River Valley High School
• McCord Snider, East Central Middle School
• Emily Russ, Clinton Prairie High School 

Kansas: 

• Sonya Roberts, Hillsboro High School
• Jim Weller, Chapman High School
• Allison Dix, Phillipsburg High School
• Caity Thompson, Spearville High School
• Jeanie Wege, Hiawatha High School
• Dr. Kelly Hoelting, Mission Valley High School
• Karlea Clark, Cherryvale High School 

Kentucky: 

• Catherine Poole, South Warren High School
• Melissa Blackburn, Lawrence County High School
• Madison Goodlett, Leestown Middle School
• J.R. Zinner, Western Hills High School
• Aaron Tucker, Apollo High School
• Jason McWhorter, South Laurel High School
• Erin Arnett, Campbellsville High School
• Noel Pack, Meade County High School
• Cecil “CJ” Vise, Mason County High School
• Chris Thompson, Pendleton County High School
• Ben Prevette, Hopkins County Central High School
• Mercedes Branham, Carlisle County High School 

Maryland: 

• Becky Yost, Northern High School
• Greg Stull, Walkersville High School
• Sarah Skinner, Center of Applied Technology North
• Sarah Raulerson, Hereford Middle School
• Jerry Kelley, Parkside Career & Technical Education 

Missouri: 

• Johnny Viebrock, Smithville High School
• Jarred Sayre, Milan C‑2 High School
• Shelby Haag, Pettis County R‑V Schools
• Kristy Sivils, Aurora High School
• Jon Wilson, Gainesville High School
• Nick Nordwald, Sikeston Career & Technology Center
• Jack Green, North Central Missouri College 

Nebraska: 

• Brandon Jacobitz, Adams Central High School
• Lee Schroeder, West Point High School
• Shelly Kubicek, Aquinas Catholic Schools
• Tony Jensen, Freeman High School
• Christy Hodges, Johnson County Central
• Ben Robison, Alma High School 

New York: 

• Robert Markuske, New York Harbor School
• Rachel Rose, Greenville Central School
• Lee Levine, Galway Central School
• Nichole Cunningham, Sherburne‑Earlville Central School
• Katie Lindsey, Mount Markham Central School
• Rachael Howard, South Lewis Central School
• Cheyenne Nowalk, McGraw Central School
• Mary Coolbaugh, Marcus Whitman Central School
• Kelly Wilcox, Letchworth Central School
• Arissa Hitchcock, Randolph Central School 

Ohio: 

• Ryan Avers, Woodmore High School
• Shanna Finnegan, Firelands High School
• Roy Dria, Jackson High School
• Cody McClain, Seneca East High School
• Carmen Hartzell, Mississinawa Valley High School
• Alex Zimmer, Buckeye Valley High School
• Deanna Karpuz, Watkins Middle School
• Taylor Ryan, Indian Valley High School
• Brian Cummings, Hillsboro High School
• Marcheta Ferguson, Northwest High School 

Pennsylvania: 

• Doug Masser, Pequea Valley High School
• Curtis Swineford, Selinsgrove High School
• Kelly Kuhn, New Oxford High School
• Jessica Maron, Penns Manor High School 

South Dakota: 

• Adam Koll, Florence High School
• Dave VanderWal, De Smet High School
• Malynda Penner, Freeman High School
• Susan Roudabush, Ethan High School
• Austin Bishop, Belle Fourche High School
• Shane Gross, Hitchcock‑Tulare High School
• Josh Christensen, Harrisburg High School
• Renae Gebhart, Lemmon High School 

Utah 

• Johnathan Burton, Juab High School
• Jim Freston, Union High School
• Emili Sweat, Wasatch High School
• Chaleesa Brocious, Spanish Fork Junior High
• Chad Warnick, Delta High School 

“Behind every thriving ag program is a dedicated teacher planting the seeds for tomorrow’s food and farm innovations,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “By spotlighting their impact through the Golden Owl Award, we’re not only honoring their commitment, we’re also investing in the future of agriculture and the students who will shape it.” 

Since its inception in 2018, the Golden Owl Award has supplied more than $800,000 to support teachers, students, school agricultural programs and FFA organizations. This year, the award expanded to two new states – Delaware and Utah – due to its positive impact and popularity.  

Each year, the selected honorees, chosen by established state committees, are awarded $500¹ in recognition of their contributions. One finalist in each state is then selected as the Ag Educator of the Year and receives an additional $3,000 and the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy. Nationwide also contributes $5,000 to each of the participating state FFA organizations. 

To see a complete list of partners, read more about the state honorees, see past winners or learn about the nomination process in select states, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.  

^{1 Ohio finalists will receive a personalized plaque and $1,500 to fund their programs. Ohio’s Ag Educator of the Year title will receive the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy and an additional $5,000 to help fund future educational efforts for their program. Ohio’s partners, Farm Credit Mid-America and AgCredit, provided funding for the increase in prize money. In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winner’s school ag program.} 

Nationwide is tapping insurance industry veteran Bobbie Goldie to oversee the insurance and financial services company’s Private Company Management Liability and Cyber Liability teams. She’ll assume that role on May 4 and report to Tom Iorio, Nationwide’s Senior Vice President of Management Liability and Specialty. 

A distinguished insurance executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience across cyber, financial lines, property and casualty insurance, Bobbie is widely recognized for her expertise in cyber risk, underwriting strategy, and the development of innovative insurance solutions. 

“Bobbie has an outstanding record of shaping insurance through innovation and education. She shares a deep passion for strengthening organizational and policyholder resilience,” said Iorio. “We’re confident that Bobbie will help Nationwide continue to grow our Private D&O/EPL and cyber lines while positioning Nationwide as the carrier of choice for our distribution partners.” 

Most recently Bobbie led the transformation of the Moving & Storage Division at IAT, restoring profitability and establishing a strong and sustainable foundation in a challenging commercial auto market, while also leading Corporate Distribution across IAT. 

 Her earlier professional experience includes several leadership roles for Chubb, as well as pivotal positions at leading brokerage firms including Hays Companies, Arthur J. Gallagher, and Willis. 

Goldie is a frequent keynote speaker and recognized thought leader. Her contributions to the industry have earned her recognition as Cyber Person of the Year, Elite Women in Insurance, Hot 100 Insurance Leaders, and multiple innovation awards. 

• Drivers say U.S. roads feel unpredictable as phone use, aggression and reckless driving continue to rise
• Stress and mistrust are growing on the road, with 4 in 10 drivers reporting stress and two-thirds frequently witnessing road rage
• Parents’ anxiety about teen driving is reshaping safety perceptions, with 40% saying they would trust an autonomous vehicle over their teen in some situations
• Company drivers confirm worsening behaviors across the board, reporting sharp increases in distraction, recklessness and unsafe driving around larger vehicles 

A new survey from Nationwide finds that driving in America is becoming less predictable and less trusted. While most drivers rate their own driving highly, many say the behavior from others on the road is getting worse. Distraction, aggression and recklessness are rising, making everyday driving more stressful and harder to anticipate.  

Nearly 9 in 10 drivers say phone use behind the wheel has increased in the past year, alongside similar spikes in aggressive and reckless driving. As a result, 40% say they experience stress while driving, and more than two-thirds frequently witness road rage.   

That erosion of trust is reshaping how families think about safety. In fact, 4 in 10 parents say they would trust an autonomous vehicle over their teen driver in certain situations, despite ongoing skepticism about the technology.  

Even the most experienced drivers are seeing the same shift. Company drivers, who operate a vehicle as one of their core job responsibilities and spend more time on the road than most, report worsening behaviors across the board, including increases in distraction, recklessness and unsafe driving around larger vehicles.  

Parents are weighing two imperfect options  
Parents are choosing between two risks they don’t fully trust. Anxiety is widespread among families with teen drivers: 91% of parents say they are at least somewhat anxious about their teen’s driving, and nearly half (49%) say driving is stressful for their teen.   

At the same time, confidence in young drivers remains low. More than 8 in 10 consumers (84%) and parents (85%) believe teens are more distracted than other age groups. Just 12% rate teen drivers as very good or excellent. Nearly nine in 10 also say teens need more behind-the-wheel training.   

As that anxiety builds, many parents are rethinking what safety looks like. In fact, 40% of parents with teen drivers believe that autonomous vehicles may be a safer option than their teens learning to drive.  

Company drivers reinforce the trend  
Company drivers who operate a vehicle daily as part of their job responsibilities see this shift every day on the road.  

Spending more time behind the wheel than most, they offer a clear view into how driving behavior is changing. They report noticeable increases in risky driving behaviors when compared to results from the 2025 Driving Behaviors study, including a 10-point rise in distraction (77%) and recklessness (73%) and a 15-point increase (74%) in unsafe driving around commercial vehicles.  

That behavior is making an already demanding job more stressful. Nearly half of commercial drivers (47%) say they feel stressed, exhausted and frustrated while driving for work, and 60% worry that aggressive drivers could cause an accident.  

“Driving no longer feels as predictable or routine as it once did,” said Mark McGhiey, Commercial Risk Management Leader at Nationwide. “Many describe a road environment with more distractions, more tension and less trust in the people around them. These conditions are particularly concerning for company drivers as many worry about the threat of accidents, injuries and the ripple effects on future employment opportunities.”  

It’s not just regular drivers causing friction; company drivers are noticing the same trends of faster and more reckless driving among their peers as well. One quarter admits they are at least sometimes distracted behind the wheel, showing no group is immune to risky behavior.  

What drivers can still control  
While drivers can’t control the behavior of others, they can take steps to help reduce their own risk in an environment that feels increasingly unpredictable.  

“Drivers are noticing changes in driving behavior on the road, and that awareness is an important first step toward improving road safety,” said Chris Lee, VP of Personal Lines Auto at Nationwide. “While we can’t control every driver around us, we can control how we drive. Reducing distractions, staying alert, and giving other vehicles more space are simple actions that can make a real difference. Programs like Nationwide’s Focused Driving Rewards^® are designed to help drivers build those safer habits and keep their attention where it belongs—on the road.”  

Nationwide’s Focused Driving Rewards is designed to help drivers put those habits into practice. The program encourages reduced phone handling behind the wheel by tracking behaviors like handheld calls or screen taps, and rewards focused driving with gift cards. It is open to both Nationwide members and non-customers.  

Businesses can also leverage insurance carrier-provided resources, like guides for safely handling aggressive or distracted drivers. They can also lean into tech solutions like dashcams that capture critical evidence in the event of an accident caused by another vehicle, as well as  GPS telematics, which can help proactively reduce risk through driver monitoring, coaching and route optimization.    

Methodology  
Nationwide commissioned Edelman Data & Intelligence (DXI) to conduct a nationally representative online survey of 1,005 general consumers, 400 parents of teen drivers, and 400 commercial drivers from January 14-28, 2026. 

Nearly two‑thirds of commercial property stakeholders – defined as property owners, new construction builders, and business owners – report being very or extremely concerned about severe weather risk and natural disasters in their area. Nationally, respondents feel most at risk from severe heat waves (69%), floods (69%), and damaging winds (65%). Top concerns tied to these risks are business interruption (56%), water intrusion/flood damage (41%) and structural damage (33%). 

Risk perception also varies by region. Flooding and business interruptions rank among the top concerns nationwide, while specific risks are top of mind in areas prone to particularly damaging weather. In hurricane-risk states, concern about structural damage (39%) and broken windows (39%) exceeds national levels. In states prone to severe convective storms, stakeholders report heightened concern about roof damage (33%) and broken windows (33%), as well as ice storms and severe cold waves.

Even with widespread concern, less than half of national commercial property owners say they feel fully prepared for any of these weather risks.

Property owners are investing in physical resilience
In response to growing weather risk, property stakeholders are taking meaningful steps to reinforce their buildings and operations.

• 61% have added backup power systems
• 60% installed weather-resistant windows or doors
• 57% developed or updated an emergency preparedness plan
• 54% added extra bracing for severe wind

Structural upgrades play a critical role in reducing damage and limiting disruption. At the same time, businesses are evaluating how their insurance coverage supports recovery should substantial losses occur.

Confidence in coverage is strong, but businesses are weighing their protection
Property owners’ perceptions of insurance protection are nuanced. More than 8 in 10 say they feel well protected against severe weather losses; however, only 39% of those stakeholders say they feel fully protected – suggesting that while overall confidence in coverage is strong, fewer view their coverage as comprehensive.

Even with positive perceptions of coverage, cost considerations continue to shape insurance decisions.

• 41% believe commercial property insurance affordability has improved over the past year
• Still, 60% are interested in ways to manage insurance costs
• 55% would consider reducing coverage or insuring less property to lower premiums

Nearly all property owners report consulting with an insurance agent to review coverage and discuss risk management strategies. This ongoing professional guidance has become essential as weather-related risks continue to evolve.

Growing risks highlight opportunity for greater technology adoption
While many commercial property owners are concerned about weather and environmental damage, adoption of technologies designed to predict and prevent losses remains relatively low.

• Only 41% report using smart water leak detection or automatic shutoff systems
• Two-thirds do not use smart thermostats or temperature sensors
• Roughly three-quarters do not use environmental sensors that monitor conditions like temperature, humidity or air quality

The findings also point to a broader awareness gap: nearly 8 in 10 respondents (77%) wish there were as many technology solutions available to protect their business properties as there are for their homes. In reality, commercial-grade monitoring and protection tools are more widely available and advanced than residential offerings, and many insurers offer discounted access or incentives for businesses that adopt them.

Building a comprehensive approach
As severe weather risks continue to disrupt operations, insurance agents remain a critical resource for helping businesses navigate coverage decisions, identify mitigation opportunities and understand where technology can further strengthen their protection.

“Businesses have made meaningful investments to strengthen their properties, and that’s encouraging,” said Jason Ragsdale, Nationwide’s leader of Risk Management Technical Specialization. “But resilience goes beyond the building itself. It requires a comprehensive approach that includes risk mitigation, continuity planning and insurance coverage that reflects today’s evolving risks.”

Methodology
Nationwide commissioned Edelman Data & Intelligence (DXI) to conduct a nationally representative online survey of 300 commercial property stakeholders from January 24 to February 13, 2026.

“Farmers today face disruption risks that are more complex and unpredictable than ever before,” said Devin Fuhrman, Nationwide’s Chief Agriculture and Sponsor Relations Officer. “The new Farm Risk Ready tools and resources are designed to help farmers move from a wait-and-see approach to a predict and prevent mindset. By understanding emerging risks and building an actionable plan, farmers can strengthen their operations and position themselves for long-term success.”

The Need for Proactive Risk Management
The research conducted by Nationwide shows that farmers feel moderately prepared to manage disruption risks with readiness scores averaging at just five out of 10 (10 being completely prepared), highlighting the need to strengthen business resiliency across the industry. Farmers without resiliency plans tend to take a wait-and-see approach, with nearly half (47%) believing that if risk happens, they can address it at that time.

“Farmers have traditionally viewed risks in buckets like production and marketing,” said Fuhrman. “While we typically think of farm risk as resulting in some form of physical loss, it can also take the form of a reputational or market access loss.”

Today’s risks extend far beyond the field. Regulatory changes, geopolitical tensions, disease outbreaks, market access challenges and supply chain disruptions have all surged. Creating resilience — the ability to anticipate, absorb, adapt, and recover from shocks quickly and effectively — is no longer optional. It’s essential for surviving the unexpected.

Introducing Farm Risk Ready
Many farmers who lack a formal resiliency or risk management plan cite limited knowledge about how to build a strong response strategy, with 31% saying they don’t know how or where to get help and 16% pointing to lack of time as key barriers. To address this gap and help farmers better prepare for future risk, Nationwide developed the Farm Risk Ready initiative, which provides tools and resources for identifying vulnerable areas and developing actionable plans tailored to individual operations.

Farm Risk Ready provides:

• An interactive risk assessment to gauge current preparedness and pinpoint areas for improvement.
• A plan builder to help farmers create a tailored Farm Risk Ready Plan for their operation.
• Learning materials and online resources that make risk planning approachable and practical.
• Future hands-on workshops that will provide expert guidance and peer learning to help farmers build and refine their plans.

As agriculture continues to evolve, so must the strategies farmers use to protect their businesses. Farm Risk Ready is designed to meet farmers where they are with practical support that fits into a farm’s day-to-day activities.

“While it may be impossible to identify or plan for every future risk, creating a plan helps you prepare, minimize potential business disruptions and protect your bottom line,” said Fuhrman.

Get Started Today
Farmers can start building a Farm Risk Ready Plan today at nationwide.com/farmriskready. With just a few clicks, farmers can take the first step toward building a stronger, more resilient future.

Their conversation explored the talent and technology trends that are shaping the future of the insurance industry, how distribution partners can adapt to these changes, and why careers in insurance continue to be a smart choice for the future. Check out some key takeaways from the discussion below.

What are the key technology trends impacting the insurance industry and distribution partners?  
Key takeaway: AI, hyperconnected systems and advanced computing are three forces reshaping every industry. These are powerful forces, and Nationwide is making a powerful response. We’ve invested $5B in technology modernization since 2015. Today, we have plans for an additional $1.5B through 2028 – with 20% of our investment focused on scaling AI responsibly and in alignment with our values. 

As we think about our distribution partners, how can they balance technology, including AI, with the human touch?
Key takeaway: The right balance of technology and human interaction starts with understanding customers’ preferences. AI should streamline simple, routine tasks, while people focus on high-stakes, high-emotion or high-complexity moments where customers want reassurance and confidence.

What are some of the key talent trends that are taking place in the P&C industry? 
Key takeaway: As the P&C insurance industry becomes even more specialized—requiring deeper expertise in specific risks and products— the industry is also seeing a heightened risk of losing institutional knowledge, with an acceleration of retirements. This reality requires us to rethink how we hold on to this knowledge so that we are prepared for what is ahead. Technology and AI are also fundamentally changing how work gets done. Digital fluency is no longer optional — it’s foundational. 

What advice do you have for distribution professionals for how to address these talent gaps? 
Key takeaway: Carriers and distribution partners who take a long-term view of talent will navigate this dynamic landscape most successfully. That means investing in the next generation of talent early in their careers, developing people intentionally (with a focus on building digital and AI fluency) and evolving to more flexible work models.

Why should a recent college graduate join the insurance industry? 
Key takeaway: Insurance careers provide an opportunity to use data, technology and problem-solving to help people on their worst days – and get them back on their feet. The industry is transforming fast—offering flexibility, growth, and a chance to build skills that are in high demand. There are tremendous opportunities for those who can combine tech savvy with a passion for protecting customers.

“Over the past five years, the average flood claim has exceeded $90,000,” said Stephanie Lee, Chief Executive Officer at Titan Flood. “We’re making it easier for people to protect themselves from that kind of financial shock.”

The program addresses a critical gap in the market. Standard homeowners and renters policies typically exclude flood damage, leaving the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as the default option for many. However, the NFIP offers low coverage limits and limited options along with a 30-day waiting period. Titan Flood provides an alternative that has greater coverage limits for buildings and personal contents as well as a faster quoting experience.

Powered by predictive modeling and algorithmic underwriting, the Titan Flood platform allows homeowners to assess their flood risk, customize coverage, and purchase policies online in seconds. The platform is designed to be intuitive for consumers while also supporting independent agents with efficient quoting tools.

“This program is about empowering homeowners with the right coverages for their needs and faster access,” said Brooke Shirazi, Nationwide’s Vice President of E&S/Specialty Property Programs. “We wanted to take a controlled approach to entering the private flood market and found that Titan Flood’s digital efficiency and prioritized underwriting discipline is making that possible.”

The program is available in 15² states including Florida, Texas, California, and New Jersey, with plans to expand further in 2026. Titan Flood’s platform helps build more resilient communities by expanding access to flood insurance and modernizing how coverage is delivered.

To learn more watch our video series on the rising need for private residential flood.

To get a quote visit: https://titanflood.com/

¹ https://www.floodsmart.gov/
² State availability: AZ, CA, CT, FL, GA, HI, IL, MA, MI, NC, NJ, PA, SC, TX, VA.

“With significantly more corn in storage, we’re already seeing a concerning rise in grain bin entrapments across the country this year,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Nationwide remains committed to preventing these tragedies by equipping local first responders with the life-saving rescue tools and training they need. While we’re incredibly proud that these resources have helped save 16 lives since 2014, including a recent rescue earlier this month in Missouri, we know there is still more work to be done.”

To raise awareness and help prevent these accidents, Nationwide has opened its 13^th annual Nominate Your Fire Department Contest in recognition of Grain Bin Safety Week.

Startling facts: Injuries & fatalities from grain bins*

• In 2024, at least 34 grain entrapments were documented – a 25% increase from 2023.
• There were 584 documented entrapments between 2007 and 2024. It’s estimated an additional 30% of cases go unreported.
• In four seconds, an adult can sink knee-deep in flowing grain and be rendered unable to free themselves without assistance. In just 20 seconds, an adult can be fully engulfed.
• 100% of grain bin entrapments are preventable.

Grain Bin Safety Week continues to make an impact: February 15-21, 2026

Nationwide initiated its annual Grain Bin Safety campaign in 2014 to raise awareness of the dangers of working in grain bins and promote a zero-entry mentality. Grain Bin Safety Week, which takes place Feb. 15-21, 2026, brings a national spotlight to the issue each year.

A key component of Grain Bin Safety Week is the annual Nominate Your Fire Department Contest, which aims to supply fire departments across rural America with the specialized rescue training and equipment needed to respond if an entrapment occurs. Since 2014, Nationwide and partners have awarded 452 grain rescue tubes to first responders across 35 states – providing over $2 million in resources in partnership with local sponsors.

The Nominate Your Fire Department Contest is now open until April 30, 2026. Learn how to nominate your local fire department here.

Nationwide works closely each year with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to deliver both the rescue equipment and hands-on training.

“Rural fire departments are often the only line of defense when an entrapment occurs,” said Dan Neenan, director at NECAS. “It’s critically important to ensure these first responders not only have the specialized rescue equipment, but also the training needed to respond effectively. NECAS is proud to join Nationwide and its partners to make a difference.” 

For more information about the program or the nomination process, visit www.GrainBinSafetyWeek.com.  For anyone who would like to get involved or sponsor a rescue tube in your area, visit the Grain Bin Safety Week donations page.

Grain Bin Safety Week is made possible by the following generous partners:

• Central Valley Ag
• CHS
• David Larson Insurance Services
• Delaware Farm Bureau
• Delaware Soybean Board
• Gregerson Salvage
• Growmark
• Horizon Farm Credit
• Hummel Group
• Indiana Corn Marketing Council
• KC Supply
• Lutz Agency
• Maryland Farm Bureau
• MissouriCorn
• Nationwide
• NECAS
• New York Farm Bureau
• NOHR Wortmann Engineering
• Ohio Farm Bureau
• Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
• ProValue Insurance
• Specialty Risk Insurance
• Syngenta
• TrueNorth Companies
• Westside Salvage

For parents, the day their teen starts driving is equally exciting and nerve-wracking. The latest survey from Nationwide confirms those fears: only 4 in 10 parents rate their teen’s driving as “very good” or “excellent,” and distracted driving ranks among their top concerns (42%).

“As a parent, I know how important it is to set the right example behind the wheel,” said Dale Earnhardt Jr. “This partnership with Nationwide is about giving families practical tools to build safer habits and rewarding them for doing the right thing.”

Filmed on a driving course near Charlotte, NC, that was designed by the free national pro-active teen driver safety program B.R.A.K.E.S., the multimedia campaign features a parent-and-teen duo learning safe driving techniques with professional instructors and encouragement from Dale Jr. The family also got firsthand experience with Nationwide’s Focused Driving Rewards® program¹, which helps drivers earn points for distraction-free driving and redeem them for gift cards.

“Every mile matters when it comes to teen safety,” said Chris Lee, Nationwide’s VP of Personal Lines Auto. “Partnering with Dale Jr. helps us amplify a simple but powerful message: put the phone down when you’re behind the wheel. With programs like Focused Driving Rewards, families have a practical way to reinforce that message and see real results.”

Research backs it up: 82% of parents say they would enroll their teen in a program that rewards safe driving, with most citing improved driving habits and safety as a top concern (44%)².

Nationwide’s ‘Focused Driving Rewards®’ is open to everyone—not just Nationwide customers—and offers rewards for drivers who keep their focus on the road by not handling their phone.

Program Highlights: 

• Easy App-Based Experience: Track progress and earn points through the Nationwide app, with drivers earning points redeemable for gift cards when they avoid distractions over time.
• Open to All: Nationwide policy is not required, any driver can join and offers up to $60 every six months redeemable in gift cards for those who keep their focus on the road.
• Proven Results: Since launching in 40+ states in 2025, 38% of enrolled participants have lowered their phone distraction, averaging a 39% reduction³.
• Simple Focus: The program only measures phone handling events like tapping, hand-held calls, or phone motion, making it easy to understand and improve.

“Driving is a big milestone for teens, and it’s natural for parents to feel a little anxious. With the right tools and open conversations, families can ease some of that worry and help teens build confidence behind the wheel. Every trip becomes a chance to practice and reinforce safe driving habits,” said Lee. 

To learn more and enroll in Focused Driving Rewards click here.

Campaign media assets, including video b-roll, soundbites and still images can be found here.

¹Focused Driving Rewards is not insurance and does not require the purchase of a policy or a quote. Participation is optional and subject to terms and conditions. Not available in all states. Nationwide may terminate the program at any time.    Focused Driving Rewards is not currently available in AK, CA, FL, HI, LA, MA, NY or OK.
²https://news.nationwide.com/download/7f628269-4f3d-4029-a789-5b9c283b8dcf/familywithteendriver-nationwidedrivingbehaviors2025report.pdf
³Based on Nationwide data through November 2025. Limited to drivers that have more than one month of active participation in the program.

“Kids my age, we’ve always had a phone and social media,” says Allie. “There’s always that urge to look at it, even in the car. We don’t want to miss out on what’s going on.”  

Ahead of January’s Teen Driving Awareness Month, Allie had the unique opportunity to put her safe driving skills to the test under the watchful eye of one of motorsports’ most recognizable names.  

During a supervised exercise at a closed driving course in the Charlotte area, NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. rode shotgun and provided running commentary as Allie took the wheel to navigate a tightly coned track while facing multiple distractions.  

“She did really great,” said Dale. “I was throwing a bunch of things at her trying to distract her but nothing I did took her attention away from the road. I couldn’t crack her!”  

After riding with Allie, Earnhardt noted, “The challenges maybe that we faced 30 years ago, they are different today. There’s just a lot more opportunities for people to make mistakes and get in some bad habits that they feel comfortable with.” 

Allie’s father Alan also took a turn in the passenger seat to observe firsthand how his daughter handled the experience. When asked how he and his wife support Allie as a young driver, Miller offered, “I think we play a huge role in making sure she’s a good driver - trying to teach her good habits and trying to teach her not to stay on the phone. It’s not worth the danger it can cause.” 

The driving course and curriculum were provided by B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe), a Charlotte-based organization whose mission is to prevent injuries and save lives by training and educating teenage drivers and their parents about the importance of safe and responsible driving.  

B.R.A.K.E.S. founder Doug Herbert added, “Most of the crashes are caused by distraction, so keeping focused on the road is no different than driving a race car, right? You’ve got to stay focused on the track, focused on the other people around you.” 

Nationwide is doing its part to encourage distraction-free driving by teens and everyone else on the road. The Nationwide Focused Driving Rewards® program, available to all drivers, gives participants who demonstrate safe driving habits the chance to earn points redeemable for retail gift cards. 

“Every mile matters when it comes to teen safety,” said Chris Lee, Nationwide’s VP of Personal Lines Auto. “Partnering with Dale Earnhardt Jr. helps us amplify a simple but powerful message: ‘Put the phone down when you’re behind the wheel.’ With programs like Focused Driving Rewards, families have a practical way to reinforce that message and see real results.”  

Alan is thankful that programs like the B.R.A.K.E.S. teen driver training program and Nationwide’s Focused Driving Rewards exist. It helps him sleep better at night, knowing that organizations are committed to helping to make roadways safer. 

“I think it can be very beneficial for a lot of kids,” added Alan.  

Allie agrees: “It’s definitely a motivation to not be distracted when driving.” 

Learn more about Nationwide Focused Driving Rewards® by visiting Nationwide.com.   

Focused Driving Rewards is not insurance and does not require the purchase of a policy or a quote. Participation is optional and subject to terms and conditions. Not available in all states. Nationwide may terminate the program at any time. Focused Driving Rewards is not currently available in AK, CA, FL, HI, LA, MA, NY or OK. 

The Husseys experienced significant hardship after leaving the Big Island of Hawaii, including periods of homelessness. On November 5, they received a refurbished 2021 Honda CRV, donated by Nationwide as part of the National Auto Body Council (NABC) Recycled Rides program. The vehicle, restored by Universal Motorcars Collision Repair, will help the family access employment, childcare, and essential services. 

The Recycled Rides program provides reliable transportation to individuals and families facing financial hardship. Family Promise of Las Vegas, Nationwide’s charity partner, selected the Hussey family through its local support and housing stability programs. 

‘Tis the Season to be Driving 
For the past few years, Nationwide claims frequency has shown other risky days are the Friday before Christmas (December 19 this year), with an increase in auto accidents peaking on December 23.  

“The holidays are busy enough, don’t add risk to the mix,” said Casey Kempton, President, P&C Personal Lines. “The simplest way to stay safe is to keep your eyes on the road and your phone out of reach. A quick text or scroll isn’t worth the danger it creates for you, your passengers, and everyone sharing the road.”

Distracted Driving in a Winter Wonderland 
There is a good chance while driving to do your holiday shopping, you’ll see another driver looking at their phones behind the wheel.   

According to the latest driving survey from Nationwide, the overwhelming majority agree driving has become more dangerous, reporting that other drivers are more often looking at their phones (92%). Even more alarming, 1 in 10 (11%) confess to reading or writing emails while driving.*   

An analysis using Nationwide SmartRide data revealed that the average driver experiences five or more distractions in a 20-mile commute, with each distraction averaging 15 seconds at 45mph—this is equivalent to driving blind for over the length of three football fields!   

Nationwide’s ‘Focused Driving Rewards®’ Can Encourage Safer Habits  
To help combat these issues, Nationwide has introduced the Focused Driving Rewards (FDR) program,** a first-of-its-kind initiative that rewards all drivers, both existing Nationwide members and non-customers, for reducing phone use behind the wheel.  

Key details include:  

• App-Based Participation: The program is managed through the Nationwide app, with participants earning points redeemable for gift cards when they avoid distractions over time.
• Rewards Pilot Success: FDR launched successfully across more than 40 states in 2025. Since the start, we’ve seen 38% of drivers enrolled have lowered their distraction levels, with those showing improvements averaging a 39% reduction. Notably, the most significant improvements have come from reduced phone tapping while behind the wheel.
• No Strings Attached: FDR is open to everyone, not just Nationwide customers, and offers up to $60 every six months in gift cards for those that keep their focus on the roads while driving.
• Simplicity & Focus: The program only considers phone handling events (like tapping, hand-held calls, or phone motion), making it an easy way to try out a telematics experience and be rewarded for improved focus.  

Deck the Halls with Updated Insurance 
The holiday season is a great time to review your insurance coverage with your agent to make sure you have the right coverage for your needs. The claims data shows that drivers have good reason to be apprehensive about driving around the holidays; knowing you’re covered in case something does happen can bring some relief.  

*Nationwide Driving Behaviors Survey 2025, a nationally representative online survey of 1,000 general consumers and 400 commercial drivers from March 5-18, 2025.   
**Focused Driving Rewards is not currently available in AK, CA, FL, HI, LA, MA, NY or OK. Drivers 29 years and younger can earn up to $60 every 6 months. Drivers 30 years and older can earn $2.50 every 2 weeks, up to $30 every 6 months. Focused Driving Rewards is not insurance and does not require the purchase of a policy or a quote. Participation is optional and subject to terms and conditions. Nationwide may terminate the program at any time. 

As 2025 closes, the construction industry continues to face headwinds from elevated costs, labor shortages and policy uncertainty. However, signs point to cautious optimism heading into 2026, driven by fiscal stimulus and potential easing of interest rates. The Nationwide Economics team recently released its Year-End 2025 Construction Industry Report, which highlights several key trends:

• Overall Industry Activity: Nonresidential construction slowed in 2025 due to high costs and interest rates – with data centers being a notable exception – but easing monetary policy and reduced uncertainty could revive activity in 2026.
• Labor Market: Labor demand softened while supply shrank due to immigration policy, and hiring is expected to remain constrained in 2026 with continued wage pressure.
• Input Costs: Tariff-related cost increases were modest in 2025 but may rise in 2026 amid trade uncertainty, though federal tax incentives could stimulate demand and domestic production.
• Building Construction: Construction spending stalled across key sectors in 2025, but federal tax incentives and long-term trends may drive a rebound in the latter half of 2026.
• Heavy & Civil Engineering: Infrastructure Act funding supported growth in 2025, but its October 2026 expiration and potential federal spending cuts pose risks to future projects.
• Specialty Trade Contractors: Labor shortages and tariffs raised costs in 2025, but fiscal stimulus and tax incentives may ease constraints and increase demand in 2026.

These trends highlight the need for construction businesses to prepare for continued cost pressures, labor constraints and policy shifts, while positioning for potential growth opportunities as federal incentives and economic conditions improve in 2026. Read on for a deeper look into these trends, or check out the full report below. 

Construction Industry Report - Year-end 2025

Deep Dive
Industry Trends: High costs, policy uncertainty slowed building activity, but may improve in 2026
Investment in residential and nonresidential construction remained sluggish in 2025 due to elevated costs and policy uncertainty, with commercial gains largely limited to education, health care and technology – especially data centers. Construction activity outside of data centers is expected to stay soft into early 2026 as tariffs and consumer demand uncertainty continue to weigh on business investment. However, easing policy uncertainty and federal tax incentives may encourage a rebound in construction spending in the back half of 2026, though reduced government funding poses risks for public infrastructure projects.

Labor: Continued strain on construction hiring
The construction labor market rebounded strongly after the pandemic but has tightened again, with job openings falling due to slower residential and nonresidential activity. Despite easing demand, labor shortages persist, driven by a lack of experienced workers due to widespread retirements. This and impacts from tighter immigration policies continue to push wages higher within that sector. Hiring is expected to remain constrained in 2026 as firms struggle to find qualified workers, even as construction activity begins to recover later in the year.

Input Costs: Tariffs and trade uncertainty keep input costs in focus
Construction material prices remain mostly stable in 2025, with tariff-related increases delayed but expected to rise as inventories deplete. Trade policy uncertainty and tariffs on key imports may continue to push input costs higher in 2026, though federal tax incentives could stimulate demand and domestic production. While these dynamics present cost-related risks, they also offer opportunities for businesses that proactively manage supply chains and financial planning.

Construction of Buildings: Signs point to a slow recovery ahead
Spending and hiring for the construction of new buildings declined in 2025 due to elevated interest rates and policy uncertainty, with manufacturing activity slowing after earlier gains from the 2022 CHIPS Act. While infrastructure construction continues to benefit from prior federal investment, commercial construction remains uneven amid tariff disruptions and mixed demand signals. Looking ahead, improved economic conditions and federal tax incentives could gradually revive building activity in 2026-2027, though reduced government spending may limit infrastructure investment.

Heavy & Civil Engineering: Infrastructure momentum faces uncertain future
Federal infrastructure funding drove strong growth in highways/streets and water/sewage systems, expanding heavy and civil engineering activity despite high labor costs and barriers to entry. While spending is expected to continue into 2026, the Infrastructure and Jobs Act of 2021 is scheduled to expire in October and broader efforts to reduce government spending could slow future project flow. This creates uncertainty for firms relying on public contracts, reinforcing the need for strategic planning and risk mitigation.   

Specialty Trade Contractors: Trade contractors face headwinds, but relief may be ahead
Specialty trade contractors faced rising labor and material costs (copper, steel, plastics) in 2025, driven by worker shortages – especially among electricians – and tariff-related inflation. Residential demand weakened due to elevated mortgage rates, but nonresidential employment continued to grow, narrowing the gap between segments. Looking ahead, stabilizing input prices and federal tax incentives may ease constraints and support a recovery in demand if construction activity picks up in 2026.

Nationwide’s Construction Practice Leader, Tonya Hahn:
As construction businesses close out a year marked by elevated costs, labor shortages, and policy uncertainty, our Economics team’s report signals cautious optimism for 2026. However, persistent risks – from tariff-driven input costs to constrained labor supply and the winding down of infrastructure funding – underscore the critical role of insurance and risk management in helping firms stay resilient. Specialized insurance and risk management advisors are well-positioned to support clients through this transition, offering protection strategies that align with both current challenges and emerging opportunities.

To address those concerns, Nationwide has partnered with Chrp, a leading AI-powered home risk platform, to launch a tech-driven home inspection tool designed to proactively identify and help prevent common household hazards.

How it works

Nationwide members who have been selected for renewal inspections have the option to complete a guided photo survey of their home using their smartphone. Chrp’s platform analyzes the images against more than 400 known failure points, flagging potential issues like corroded plumbing, problematic electrical panels, or fire hazards.

Homeowners who chose to use the platform then receive a personalized report with recommendations on how to fix problems early — often before they cause considerable damage and inconvenience. In the event that hazards are identified, the inspection is referred to a Nationwide expert to review and determine next steps.

“As a customer-centric insurance company, Nationwide is always looking for ways to improve the home inspection experience for members,” said Helen Simonett, vice president, Personal Lines Property for Nationwide. “In addition to offering a modern, convenient inspection option, Chrp’s platform allows us to empower members to be proactive in protecting one of their most important assets – their home.” 

Why it mattersⁱⁱ

• 70% of non-catastrophic homeowners’ claims originate inside the home
• Water damage (not related to weather) is the #2 claim type for U.S. homeowners
• Average total losses exceed $88,000 for fire damage and exceed $15,000 for water damage
• Electrical malfunctions cause nearly 23,700 residential fires each year in the U.S., leading to more damage than any other type of fire in the home.ⁱⁱⁱ

“Water damage, in particular, is a major driver of losses,” said Zane Koeller, CRO and co-founder of Chrp.  “Our platform has found that 30% of homes contain active plumbing hazards likely to lead to a claim within four years — often from small, inexpensive parts like shut-off valves or aging supply lines. We are here to help homeowners catch potential issues while they're still fixable and save them the inconvenience of having to recover from the damage.”

A smarter approach to home protection

Traditional home inspections are often limited to exterior views or outdated checklists, but Chrp’s platform embeds construction and insurance expertise into its proprietary AI models to focus on identifying and mitigating risks most likely to lead to damage, inside and outside of the home. The result is a more accurate, tech-forward approach to loss prevention.

“Providing an in-depth review — at no cost to the homeowner — may help policyholders better understand why they should care about a hazard now and what they can do to prevent a potential problem down the line,” added Simonett. “The platform is also beneficial for our agency partners because of its self-service nature and insights that help them serve our mutual customers, the homeowner.”

The virtual inspection program is available now in all states where Nationwide writes homeowners policies and will be offered to existing customers who are selected for inspections ahead of policy renewal.

About Chrp

Chrp is an AI-powered home assessment and loss prevention platform. By combining advanced technology with deep construction and insurance expertise, Chrp identifies potential hazards inside and outside the home before they become costly losses. Partnering with carriers of all sizes across the country, Chrp is redefining how insurers prevent risk, enhance underwriting efficiency, and protect policyholders’ homes.

For more information about Chrp and the Chrp platform, visit www.chrptech.com

Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest (GIIN) recently asked Nationwide to help them identify ways to enhance safety for their employees and customers at their Spokane, Washington facility.

Watch the video below to hear their story.

Financial Stress Extends Beyond the Holidays 

The survey reveals that Americans are cutting back across the board: 

• 47% are making fewer impulse purchases
• 41% are buying fewer luxury items
• 32% are opting for used or secondhand goods 

Major life decisions are also being delayed: 

• 48% postponed or canceled a vacation
• 46% delayed or skipped purchasing a car
• 21% put off having a baby
• 19% postponed a wedding
• 17% delayed retirement 

Meanwhile, reliance on debt is rising. One in five Americans (20%) report increased debt usage over the past year, with: 

• 61% carrying a credit card balance
• 23% taking out personal loans
• 17% borrowing from retirement accounts 

These spending shifts are part of a broader trend of financial stress that extends well beyond the holidays.  

Lingering Pessimism Shapes 2026 Outlook  

Despite current confidence, 35% of Americans believe the economy will worsen in 2026. Among those with a pessimistic outlook: 

• 78% cite inflation
• 71% point to global trade tensions
• 25% believe the stock market is overvalued or in a bubble 

This unease is influencing financial priorities for the year ahead: 

• 43% expect difficulty managing healthcare costs
• 39% anticipate challenges paying off debt
• 34% worry about saving for retirement
• 31% are concerned about market volatility 

 Michael Tripp, Nationwide’s SVP Personal Lines Sales & Distribution, says this is where independent agents can make a meaningful difference:  

"When financial uncertainty sets in, people don’t just need information, they need reassurance. AI can offer data, but independent agents have the experience and perspective to translate it into real-world protection that fits a family’s budget and priorities. It's that personal connection and guidance that makes them feel secure." 

Insurance Confidence Hinges on Human Connection  

As consumers navigate economic uncertainty, many are turning to trusted sources for help understanding and managing their insurance needs. Nationwide’s survey reveals that 46% of consumers seek help or information about insurance products from an insurance agent, making agents the most relied-upon source, well ahead of friends and family (37%), social media (19%), or AI tools (17%). 

Despite the growing presence of digital tools, over half of consumers (56%) say they never use AI for information about home or auto insurance. This suggests that while technology may offer convenience, it hasn’t yet earned the trust required for more complex or personal financial decisions. 

“In a world full of digital noise, independent agents offer something that’s increasingly rare, real human guidance. Especially during times of economic stress, clients want to talk to someone who understands their situation and can help them make confident decisions about protecting what matters most,” added Tripp.  

Agents can use this insight to strengthen client relationships by: 

• Offering personalized policy reviews to identify savings or gaps
• Recommending tools like smart sensors that help prevent costly damage
• Providing proactive outreach during seasonal or economic shifts 

In a world of rising financial anxiety, the human touch remains a powerful differentiator and a critical asset for agents looking to build trust and long-term loyalty. Agents looking to explore more insights from Nationwide’s 2025 Economic Impact Survey, view the full survey findings here. 

Survey Methodology 

Nationwide commissioned Edelman Data & Intelligence (DXI) to conduct a nationally representative online survey of 2,000 U.S. adults aged 18 and older from September 5–23, 2025. The survey was weighted to reflect the U.S. population by age, gender, region, and ethnicity. Edelman DXI adheres to all applicable research standards and guidelines. 

After receiving more than 750 nominations in the 2025 Nominate Your Fire Department Contest, an annual component of Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety efforts, the insurance carrier and its partners announced that they awarded grain rescue tubes and hands-on training to the following 62 fire departments across rural America in 2025.

1. Adamsburg Volunteer Fire Company - Adamsburg, PA
2. Baltimore County Fire Station - Parkton, MD
3. Boalsburg Fire Company - Boalsburg, PA
4. Boardman Oregon Fire Rescue District - Boardman, OR
5. Bono Fire Protection District - Bono, AR
6. Breeding Area Volunteer Fire Department - Breeding, KY
7. Camp Dick Fire & Rescue - Lancaster, KY
8. Canby Fire Rescue - Canby, MN
9. Cass-Clinton Volunteer Fire Department - Wanatah, IN
10. Clearwater Fire Department - Clearwater, KS
11. Columbia County Fire District 3 - Dayton, WA
12. Coulterville Fire - Coulterville, IL
13. East Prairie Fire Department - East Prairie, MO
14. Eaton Fire Protection District - Eaton, CO
15. Edgewood Fire Department - Anderson, IN
16. Elkville Fire Department - Elkville, IL
17. Fairland Volunteer Fire Department - Fairland, IN
18. Felton Community Fire Company - Felton, DE
19. Fire Department Mount Joy - Mount Joy, PA
20. Fischer Rescue Squad - Fort Payne, AL
21. Forreston Fire Protection District - Forreston, IL
22. Frankford Volunteer Fire Company - Frankford, DE
23. Genesee Fire Department - Genesee, ID
24. Harmony Volunteer Fire Department - Olin Station - Olin, NC
25. Hazleton White River Fire Territory - Hazleton, IN
26. Henry Volunteer Fire Department - Henry, SD
27. Holly Volunteer Fire Department - Holly, CO
28. Howard Volunteer Fire Department - Avoca, NY
29. Hudson Fire Department - Hudson, IL
30. Hugo Fire Protection District - Hugo, CO
31. Kennedyville Volunteer Fire Department - Kennedyville, MD
32. Kenova Volunteer Fire Department - Kenova, WV
33. Kent Fire Company - Madison, IN
34. La Junta Fire Department - La Junta, CO
35. Lehr Fire District - Lehr, ND
36. Manchester Volunteer Fire Company - Manchester, MD
37. Martinsburg Area Fire Protection District - Martinsburg, MO
38. Midway Fire Protection District - Stark City, MO
39. Millstadt Union Fire Department - Millstadt, IL
40. Minneota Fire Department - Minneota, MN
41. Montgomery Fire Department - Montgomery, MI
42. Montgomery County Special Operations - Gaithersburg, MD
43. Montgomery Fire Protection District - Montgomery City, MO
44. Morgantown Rural Fire Department - Morgantown, IN
45. Nemaha Rural Fire Department - Nemaha, NE
46. New Plymouth Fire Protection District - New Plymouth, ID
47. North Fairfield Volunteer Fire Department - North Fairfield, OH
48. Queen Anne-Hillsboro Volunteer Fire Company - Queen Anne, MD
49. Radcliffe Fire Department - Radcliffe, IA
50. Ritzville Fire Department - Ritzville, WA
51. Rosalie Rescue Squad - Pisgah, AL
52. St. John Volunteer Fire Department - St John, WA
53. Stella Rural Fire Protection District Station 3 - Stella, MO
54. Story City/Lafayette Township Fire Department - Story City, IA
55. Transfer Volunteer Fire Department - Greenville, PA
56. Troy Mills Fire Department - Troy Mills, IA
57. Upland Rural Fire Department - Upland, NE
58. Valley Township Fire Department - Danville, PA
59. Vigilant Hose Company - Emmitsburg, MD
60. Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown - Middletown, DE
61. Woodland Township Fire Department - Woodland, MI
62. York Springs Fire Company - York Springs, PA 

NECAS also provided re-training for the following 10 fire departments: 

1. Axtell Volunteer Fire & Rescue - Axtell, NE
2. Carthage Fire Department - Carthage, MO
3. Clear Spring Volunteer Fire Company - Clear Spring, MD – re-training scheduled for 2026
4. Golden City Volunteer Fire Department - Golden City, MO
5. Granger Fire Department - Granger, IA
6. Missouri Soybean Association Event - Columbia, MO
7. Polo Fire Protection District - Polo, IL
8. Seaford Volunteer Fire Department - Seaford, DE
9. Toledo Fire Protection District - Toledo, IL
10. Washington County Fire Department - Hoyleton, IL 

In partnership with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS), Nationwide and its partners have now supplied grain rescue equipment and training to 452 first responders across 35 states, eclipsing over $2 million in resources provided, to help prepare them when local grain entrapments occur.

“With two rescues this summer, six in 2024, and a total of 15 lives saved since the program began in 2014, Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety program continues to make a powerful and lasting impact in communities across the country,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “We’re grateful to the firefighters and community partners who have turned training and equipment into saved lives — proof that these resources truly make a difference.”

NECAS delivered grain rescue tubes and training to 62 fire departments and provided re-training to 10 others, traveling to each site with state-of-the-art grain entrapment simulators. The comprehensive training sessions included classroom education and rescue simulations using the entrapment tools, which are loaded onto 20-foot trailers and able to hold about 100 bushels of grain each. 

Nationwide continues to work with partners throughout the year to provide additional grain rescue tubes and training sessions to fire departments in need. To learn how to get involved or sponsor a rescue tube for your local fire department, visit the Partner With Us webpage.

The program is supported by Nationwide, NECAS and the following generous partners:

1. KC Supply, NECAS, Nationwide Agribusiness, Indiana Corn Marketing Council, Horizon Farm Credit, Maryland Grain Producers, Farm Credit of Southern Colorado, Specialty Risk Insurance, Lutz Agency, Inc, Missouri Soybean Association, Maryland Soybean Board, Delaware Soybean Board, CHS, Farm Credit Mid-America, Northwest Grain Growers, ProValue Insurance, Delaware Farm Bureau, Ohio Farm Bureau, New York Farm Bureau, Maryland Farm Bureau, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, Westside Salvage, Gregerson Salvage, GROWMARK, Pledge Insurance Advisors, Terminal Solutions, Agfinity, Panichelle Insurance, Ritzville Warehouse, Morrow County Grain Growers, Pacific Northwest Farmers Cooperative, Nebraska Soybean Board, Nebraska Corn Board, Valley View Agri-Systems, Gallagher, TrueNorth Companies, Farm Credit of Illinois, Sump Saver, NOHR Wortmann Engineering, IRMI, Central Valley Ag (CVA), Grain Weevil

Homeownership has always come with its share of responsibilities, but today’s environment is testing the limits of what many families can manage. Nationwide’s newly released 2025 Homeowners Reportⁱ reveals that rising insurance premiums, inflation, aging infrastructure, and increasingly frequent natural disasters are turning what was once a source of pride into a source of stress.   

In response, insurance agents are stepping beyond their traditional roles, becoming proactive risk coaches who help clients prevent small issues from escalating into costly claims. By leveraging smart technology and personalized guidance, agents are helping homeowners navigate uncertainty and redefine what it means to feel truly protected.  

“Homeowners are juggling optimism with uncertainty,” said Michael Tripp, Senior Vice President of Personal Lines Sales and Distribution at Nationwide. “Agents are uniquely positioned to close that confidence gap by turning insurance knowledge into clear, actionable plans that help families protect their homes, not just insure them.”  

Agents Have a Window into Homeowner Worries 

While 63% of homeowners say they’re confident their coverage would meet their needs in the event of a claim, that confidence is fragile. More than half (57%) worry their policies may not cover certain types of damage or incidents.  

Agents report that clients are most stressed by:  

• Rising premiums (43%)
• Severe weather damage (39%)
• Unexpected repairs (37%)
• Aging home systems (34%) 

In fact, 28% of agents say their clients’ top concern is simply understanding what their insurance does (and doesn’t) cover.  

When asked what would make their insurance feel more emotionally reassuring, homeowners pointed to:  

• Faster claim resolution guarantees (54%)
• 24/7 live emergency support (52%)
• Coverage for temporary housing with added amenities (50%) 

Prevention Is the New Protection 

Agents are redefining what protection is, moving beyond reactive support to proactive risk prevention. According to the survey, 85% of agents now recommend smart-home technology to help reduce risk, including:  

• Smart sensors for smoke and carbon monoxide (62%)
• Smart locks for doors (59%)
• Whole-house water flow sensors (58%) 

“Insurance is more than being there after the loss,” said Tripp. “It’s also helping people prevent damage before it happens. Whether it’s through smart sensors that detect leaks or simple seasonal check-ins, our agents are empowering homeowners to act early and stay protected.”  

Homeowners are taking notice with smart home tech adoption rising, especially among Gen Z and Millennials:  

• 48% of homeowners use a security system or smart surveillance
• Rising to 71% among Gen Z and Millennials
• Millennials now average 4.6 smart devices per household, compared to 3.1 for Gen X and 2.2 for Boomers
• More than one in three (37%) installed safety tech to qualify for an insurance discount, rising to 56% among Gen Z and Millennials 

Still, gaps remain. Only 27% of homeowners own a smart water sensor, despite water damage being one of the most frequent and costly claims. Only 23% own electrical fire monitoring devices.  

That’s a problem, considering how much damage a hidden leak or faulty wiring can cause. The good news is some insurance providers (like Nationwide) are offering devices like Leakbot and Phyn smart water sensors for water detection and Ting for electrical monitoring for no cost to most home policyholdersⁱⁱ—to help catch issues before they become disasters.   

How Agents Are Supporting Homeowners 

Agents have a front-row seat to the evolving homeownership landscape. After years of affordability challenges and housing market volatility, financial stress has overtaken pride of ownership for many.  Nearly half (45%) of surveyed homeowners (57% of Gen Z and Millennials) spoke with an agent in the past year to better understand their coverage.  Agents are seeing dramatic shifts in behavior:  

• 78% report clients attempting to reevaluate their current homeowners policies to reduce premiums
• 76% say clients are requoting through other carriers
• 68% have seen clients cut coverage to save money
• 61% have seen clients increase coverage to reflect rising home equity and repair costs 

As homeowners weigh cost against coverage, agents have become essential guides helping clients avoid short-term savings that lead to long-tern exposure. Leading agents are reframing the conversation, not about cutting coverage but making smarter and more strategic choices. That means reviewing deductibles, updating home values, and comparing exclusions so clients can make informed trade-offs.  

“Protection starts with connection,” Tripp added. “When agents see themselves not as policy sellers but as partners in resilience, that’s when real trust, and real protection, begins.”  

A New Era of Insurance Advisory 

Nationwide’s 2025 Homeowners Report paints a clear picture: the role of the insurance agent is evolving. In a time of rising risk and shrinking budgets, agents are becoming trusted advisors, tech advocates, and resilience partners.  

For independent agents, this shift presents a powerful opportunity to deepen client relationships and lead the way in modern risk management.  

Read the full 2025 Homeowners Survey  

Learn more about Nationwide’s smart home offerings 

ⁱ2025 Homeowners Survey  
Methodology: Nationwide commissioned Edelman Data & Intelligence to conduct a 15-minute online survey among 1,000 U.S. homeowners and 400 independent insurance agents from July 30–August 18, 2025. 

ⁱⁱAvailability varies by state, coverage selections and rating factors. The smart home monitoring system and related support will be supplied by the third-party device provider and maker. Nationwide is not responsible for the system, installation or any home monitoring. To be eligible for this offer, the customer must have an active Nationwide homeowners, condo or tenant policy. 

Smart home is not available in AK, HI, LA, NY and OK. Ting devices are not available in WA. Contact your independent agent to find out about other available discounts. 

Smart Homes, Smarter Millennials? 

Millennials aren’t just buying homes, they’re upgrading them with smart tech that does more than turn on lights. For them, it’s about protection, peace of mind, and saving a few bucks. Their behavior signals a growing opportunity to educate all generations on the benefits of connected home technology. 

Smart setups are the new norm 
Millennials now average 4.6 smart devices per household, outpacing Gen X (3.1) and Baby Boomers (2.2). Their go-to gear includes security cameras, video doorbells, smart thermostats and nearly half report having a full home security system or smart surveillance setup. 

Millennials and Gen Z aren’t just in it for the cool factor (okay, maybe a little), they’re also sleeping easier because of it. 85% of insurance agents recommend smart home products to help manage risk, because nothing says “adulting” like installing a leak detector before the leak.  

Tech as a tool for savings  
Some insurance companies offer smart devices for free (like Nationwide) or include a discount on homeowners premium. 37% of all homeowners say they’ve installed safety tech to qualify for insurance discounts, that number jumps to 56% among Millennials and Gen Z. Their motivation may be financial, but the result is a safer home. 

The sense of security is just as important 
Beyond cost savings, homeowners cite protection (56%), peace of mind and safety (55%), and mobile control (39%) as top benefits of adopting smart tech. 

Despite the clear advantages, adoption is far from universal. Of those who do not currently own smart home products, 53% of homeowners say they don’t see the need and 30% admit they simply don’t know enough about them. 

As Sarah Griffin, Senior Vice President of Personal Lines Product and Underwriting at Nationwide puts it: 

“Smart tech is a powerful tool, but it’s not a substitute for basic maintenance. The best protected homes are the ones where technology and routine care work hand in hand. The real opportunity is helping homeowners blend innovation and upkeep.” 

Forever Homes Are Feeling Extra Forever 

Remember when a “starter home” was just that, a starting point? For years the housing market depended on mobility, but with interest rates still high and inventory tight, many homeowners are choosing to stay put, turning “starter homes” into “stay forever” homes. In fact, 85% now consider their current home their “forever home.” (Only 15% still think of it as a stepping stone). When looking at current buying conditions, people are staying put and learning to love what they have. 

It’s not just about dollars, it’s also about feelings. Many homeowners describe their current home as a source of comfort (52%) and security (45%). But that emotional attachment is now colliding with financial friction. Many would love to do repairs, but can’t afford to in today’s market. So, they’re getting creative.  

• Instead of hiring contractors, 71% are handling routine maintenance themselves.
• 48% are even taking on cosmetic renovations solo, with a paintbrush in one hand and an online tutorial in the other. 

The result? A generation of homeowners who aren’t just staying put, they’re doubling down on the homes they already have. Which works out, because 93% of homeowners said they view their houses as a prized asset.  

Home Protection: Simpler Than You Think (But Easier to Ignore)

Let’s be honest, keeping your home safe can feel overwhelming. Between maintenance checklists, insurance policies, and smart tech options, it’s easy to feel like you need a degree in risk management. But here’s the good news: a few simple steps can make a big difference.  

Start with the basics (seriously)  
You’d think smoke detectors and fire extinguishers would be no-brainers, but the data says otherwise.   

• 7% of homeowners don’t have smoke detectors
• 27% are missing carbon monoxide detectors
• 21% don’t have fire extinguishers  

These are low-cost, high-impact tools, and skipping them could cost you more than just peace of mind.  

The not so obvious stuff 
There is tech that flies under the radar, until your ceiling starts dripping.  

• 73% of homeowners don’t have water leak detectors
• 77% lack electrical fire monitoring devices 

That’s a problem, considering how much damage a hidden leak or faulty wiring can cause. The good news is some insurance providers (like Nationwide) are offering devices like Leakbot for water detection and Ting for electrical monitoring for no cost to most home policyholdersⁱⁱ—to help catch issues before they become disasters.   

“Homeowners don’t need to do everything at once,” said Griffin. “But small steps, like reviewing your policy or installing a leak detector, can make a big difference in protecting what matters most.”   

Maintenance matters  
In the past year:  

• 35% of homeowners delayed routine maintenance
• That jumps to 51% of Millennials and Gen Z delaying routine maintenance
• Only 25% of Baby Boomers have (maybe it’s time to take notes from Mom and Dad) 

Even more eye-opening, 25% have put off necessary repairs, with 60% of those who have delayed or deferred any home maintenance needs citing cost as the primary reason. But here’s the twist, only 14% cite maintenance among the factors that had the biggest influence on their decision making when buying their current home, 76% say it would have more of an influence on decision making if they bought again.  

And here’s something many homeowners don’t realize: your insurance policy depends on if you maintain your home. Neglecting repairs or skipping basic safety measures could impact your coverage if something goes wrong. That’s why a quick annual policy review is worth your time.   

• 53% of homeowners have already done a policy review in the past year
• 45% consulted an agent to better understand what’s covered (and what’s not).
• 42% compared quotes
• 37% installed safety devices to score a discount
• The win: 68% of insurance agents say their typical clients are already reviewing their policies at least annually (smart)

Protecting your home doesn’t mean choosing between a toolbox and a touchscreen. It means using both and working with an agent to make sure you have the right coverage you need. Whether you’re patching a leaky faucet or installing a motion sensor, the goal is the same: keep your home safe, your stuff dry, and your peace of mind in tact.  

Curious how your home habits stack up? Read the full 2025 Homeowners Survey

ⁱ 2025 Homeowners Survey  

Methodology: Nationwide commissioned Edelman Data & Intelligence to conduct a 15-minute online survey among 1,000 U.S. homeowners and 400 independent insurance agents from July 30–August 18, 2025.

ⁱⁱ Availability varies by state, coverage selections and rating factors. The smart home monitoring system and related support will be supplied by the third-party device provider and maker. Nationwide is not responsible for the system, installation or any home monitoring. To be eligible for this offer, the customer must have an active Nationwide homeowners, condo or tenant policy.

Smart home is not available in AK, HI, LA, NY and OK. Ting devices are not available in WA. Contact your independent agent to find out about other available discounts.

Since its inception in 2018, the Golden Owl Award has supplied more than $600,000 to support teachers, students, school agricultural programs and FFA organizations. Last year, there were over 4,600 nominations across 13 participating states, and the program recognized 96 exceptional ag teachers including 13 “Ag Educators of the Year.”

Now, the Golden Owl Award is expanding to two new states – Delaware and Utah – due to its positive impact and popularity. The award program will now recognize leading agricultural teachers across 15 states: California, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Utah.

To nominate an ag teacher for the 2025-2026 Golden Owl Award, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.¹

“Agricultural educators are so much more than teachers; they’re community servants who are shaping the leaders of tomorrow,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Together with our partners, we encourage students, parents, fellow teachers and other community members to nominate their agricultural teachers to acknowledge their hard work.”

Following the state’s nomination period for 2025-2026, a selection committee will determine each state’s finalists, who will receive an individualized plaque and $500 to support their agriculture programs. One grand prize winner in each state will then be selected to win the Ag Educator of the Year title for their state, the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy, and an additional $3,000 Nationwide-funded check.²

Nationwide is committed to supporting the future of the ag community through meaningful sponsorships of national and local organizations. In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is donating $5,000 to each participating state’s FFA organization to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers and advisors alike. 

To learn more about the Golden Owl Award, visit GoldenOwlAward.com.

¹ California Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 2 – Jan. 16, 2026. Delaware Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Nov. 15, 2025. Illinois Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Nov. 15, 2025. Indiana Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 15, 2025. Iowa Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 2 – Dec. 1, 2025. Kansas Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. Kentucky Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 18 – Nov. 30, 2025. Maryland Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. Missouri Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 15 – Dec. 31, 2025. Nebraska Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. New York Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 10 – Nov. 15, 2025. Ohio Golden Owl Award nomination period is Sept. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. Pennsylvania Golden Owl Award nomination period is Aug. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. South Dakota Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 31, 2025. Utah Golden Owl Award nomination period is Oct. 1 – Dec. 15, 2025.

² Ohio finalists will receive a personalized plaque and $1,500 to fund their programs. Ohio’s Ag Educator of the Year title will receive the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy and an additional $5,000 to help fund future educational efforts for their program. Ohio’s partners, Farm Credit Mid-America and AgCredit, provided funding for the increase in prize money. In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winner’s school ag program.

To address these weather hazards, the new service will send a text alert and damage prevention tips to farm customers when specific weather conditions are forecast in their areas. Those who sign up to receive the weather alerts will be notified when sustained winds greater than 50 miles per hour, gusts greater than 58 miles per hour, or hail greater than 1 inch are expected.

The growing impact of hail and wind

Weather’s unpredictability is a constant in the agricultural world, but its effects are becoming more costly. According to Nationwide claims data,

• Wind and hail alone account for approximately 35% of all farm-related damage yearly.
• The cost to repair hail-damaged insured vehicles has risen sharply, from a median of $3,454 in 2020 to $4,960 in 2024.
• The percentage of farm vehicles deemed total losses or rendered undriveable from hail damage has grown from 12.6% in 2020 to 17% YTD by 2025.
• Wind damage to Nationwide-insured farms is most reported in Texas, Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, Ohio, Arkansas, and Nebraska.

“Farm structures like grain bins, machine sheds, and outbuildings, along with essential equipment such as tractors and combines, are increasingly vulnerable during severe weather events,” said Nick Andersen, vice president of Agribusiness Claims for Nationwide. “By integrating this text alert program into their risk management practices, we hope to help farmers better safeguard their operations, protect their employees and livestock, and potentially prevent damage.”

Introducing weather alerts from Nationwide

Nationwide’s new alert system allows farm customers to register up to five addresses to receive timely text notifications when severe weather is forecast. These alerts empower farmers to take immediate action, such as:

• Sheltering livestock and employees
• Moving vehicles, machinery and equipment under shelter
• Securing items that could be damaged or become hazardous in high winds
• Closing exterior doors and windows to minimize the risk of damage

Building resilience against future storms

While immediate storm preparations are critical, it’s equally important to plan ahead. Nationwide encourages farmers to take proactive steps now to mitigate long-term risks and impacts of severe weather:

• Invest in storm-rated roofing materials for structures like machine sheds and barns.
• Conduct routine inspections to maintain the integrity of grain bins, fencing or outbuildings. Early detection of vulnerabilities can prevent structural failure during severe weather events.
• Review insurance coverage to ensure adequate protection for property and equipment.
• Document all major assets through written descriptions, photographs or video to ensure smoother claim processes if damage occurs.

For more information or to sign up for weather alerts, farm policyholders should contact their Nationwide agent or visit Nationwide’s weather alert page. More information for agents is available here.

Nationwide works with one or more separate and non-affiliated third parties to obtain this information. Notifications are provided as a courtesy and neither Nationwide nor the third parties make any express or implied warranties, guaranties or affirmations relating to the notifications including, but not limited to, that weather will occur or has occurred. Program subject to change.

In Fulton County, Illinois, the Macomb Fire Department responded to a call about a farmer trapped in corn up to their chin. Although the department didn’t need to deploy its grain rescue tube, received in 2023 through Nationwide’s program and sponsored by GROWMARK, the firefighters relied on the specialized training they received to safely extract the victim.

“Safety is paramount for the GROWMARK FS System,” said Karmy Kays, GROWMARK Chief Financial Officer. “We are proud to support first responders with the equipment needed to potentially save lives.”

Just one day later in Hutchinson, Minnesota, the Hutchinson Fire Department used its grain rescue tube and training, sponsored by David Larson Insurance, to save a farmer buried nearly to their neck in corn.

“In 2018, David Larson Insurance helped purchase a grain rescue tube for the Hutchinson Fire Department, and Nationwide provided excellent training,” said Craig Schmeling, agent at David Larson Insurance. “We are thankful to Nationwide and their affiliates for that training and to the Hutchinson Firefighters for their time and sacrifice. Knowing that this training and equipment helped save a life in our community is something we’re profoundly grateful for.”

The need for these resources remains significant. With two rescues this summer, six rescues in 2024, and a total of 15 lives saved since 2014, Nationwide’s program continues to make a meaningful impact in rural communities. Thanks to the support of local sponsors and partners, the program has awarded 450 grain rescue tubes to first responders across 36 states – over $2 million in resources provided. Nationwide collaborates each year with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS) to deliver the rescue equipment and provide safety training.

“As a protection company, there’s nothing more important to us than protecting lives, so the Grain Bin Safety program was created,” said Paul Stevenson, risk management expert and Grain Bin Safety team lead at Nationwide. “It is a great honor to know that 15 folks so far can go home to their families and have dinner because of a program we developed and executed, to provide assets and training to those who can save the life – the fire departments.” 

With continued support from local sponsors and growing awareness across rural communities, the Grain Bin Safety program is helping turn dangerous moments into stories of survival.

Check out the conversations

For more information about Nationwide’s partnerships with Kinetic and how their approach can help businesses prevent workplace injuries, click here.  

Nationwide intends to transfer the underwriting and management of all renewal policy opportunities included in the transaction – currently $1.2 billion in premium – to Ryan Re Underwriting Managers, a managing general underwriter specializing in reinsurance and part of Ryan Specialty (NYSE: RYAN).

“This acquisition accelerates Nationwide’s reinsurance growth and deepens our strategic alliance with Ryan Specialty, through Ryan Re, established in 2019,” said Nationwide CEO Kirt Walker. “Together, we’ve built a strong foundation in specialty reinsurance. This transaction builds on that momentum and broadens the range of opportunities we can bring to market.”

“These renewal rights create new opportunities to grow and diversify our reinsurance portfolio while adding specialized talent to Ryan Re’s team,” said Mark Berven, President of Property & Casualty at Nationwide. “We’re ready to provide Markel’s clients with the solutions and service they’ve come to expect, while delivering new value for broker partners.”

Transaction terms have not been publicly disclosed.

Despite the hurdles, they did it. Now, they’re offering advice for those up next. 

Their insights offer practical, candid advice for new buyers. From surprise expenses to the pride that comes with finally having a place to call their own, these stories give renters and aspiring homeowners a clearer view of what’s ahead. 

“Buying your first home is a big transition,” said Casey Kempton, President P&C Personal Lines at Nationwide. “When making this type of decision, it’s natural for new homebuyers to start second guessing themselves. However, having a trusted advisor, like your agent, can help take some of the guesswork from that process. These findings show just how much guidance buyers are looking for – not just during the transaction, but after the keys are in hand.”   

Stress of Buying a Home Beats Wedding Planning & Job Hunting  
According to the survey, 71% of first-time buyers said the process was more stressful than finding their first job. Others said it ranked above planning a wedding (59%) or finding a long-term romantic partner (56%). 

Some of the other most common challenges included: 

• Understanding the full scope of what buying a home entails (48%) 
• Finding trusted resources for first time buyers (48%) 
• Finding affordable home insurance (47%) 
• Unexpected costs and fees (47%) 

Many also had to make tough compromises to afford their home, including: 

• Commuting further to work or other daily destinations (32%) 
• Buying a home in a location that wasn't their first choice or ideal preference (31%) 
• Buying a home with fewer amenities (e.g., no backyard, no garage, no pool) (28%) 
• Living in a home that needs / needed significant repairs or renovations (27%) 
• Living in a smaller home than originally wanted (26%) 

The biggest surprise for many? How dramatically their lives changed after moving in. One in three buyers agreed that owning a home changes everything about how you spend your time and money. 

What Motivated Them and Surprised Them 
For many couples surveyed by Nationwide, renting wasn’t just a placeholder. It was a smart way to stay flexible, build savings, and figure out what they wanted long term; however, once the idea of buying became real, it was hard to ignore. Top reasons for making the leap included: 

• Finding a home in a preferred area (36%) 
• Starting or growing a family (35%) 
• Escaping rising rent (28%) 

Nearly 90% of respondents said owning a home made them feel more like an adult. But the transition brought a steep learning curve. About two-thirds said they quickly understood the reality of “unexpected repairs,” with many turning to the Internet for help when something broke. 

To understand those surprises better, Nationwide asked first-time homebuyers to pick a warning label that should have been on their house. They wish they knew: 

•  “There's always a hidden cost lurking around the corner” (28%) 
• “The internet will suddenly become your best friend for "how-to" videos” (28%). 
• “Your weekends are now dedicated to yard work and home improvement projects” (27%) 
• “Something expensive will break within six months” (24%) 
• “A home warranty will not cover your emotional breakdowns” (21%) 

“We heard from buyers who found their dream home and found themselves panic-searching ‘how to fix a leaking water heater’ at 2 a.m.,” said Kempton. “That’s the reality of first-time homeownership. Our job is to make that transition easier, so they spend less time worrying and more time settling in.” 

Redefining What Success Looks Like 
Despite the emotional ups and downs, more than 80% said the experience gave them a greater sense of control and boosted their financial confidence. They cite stability (33%), personalization (28%), and long-term wealth-building (22%) as the most empowering aspects of ownership. 

While 8 in 10 still believe homeownership is one of life’s most important achievements and central to the American Dream, over half said they now view success differently. For this generation of buyers, success means living within their means, growing retirement savings, and achieving independence; not just paying off a mortgage. They’re redefining wealth on their own terms, focused less on square footage, and more on freedom, flexibility, and security.  

First-Time Buyers Want Peace of Mind, Not Just a Policy 
Today’s buyers are planning for the long term. Nearly two-thirds (63%) view their first home as their “forever home,” not just a steppingstone. That level of commitment makes it even more important to protect what they’ve worked for. 

From navigating unexpected repairs and DIY upgrades to choosing the right insurance policy, new homeowners are looking for practical tools that reduce stress, not add to it. The right coverage offers peace of mind, turning what could be future headaches into manageable moments. 

“Buying your first home is both exciting and exhausting. We want first-time buyers to know they’re not alone,” said Kempton. “First-time buyers aren’t just looking for a place to live; they’re building the foundation of their financial future. With the right coverage and guidance, they can move forward with confidence and spend more time enjoying their new home.” 

Nationwide is a resource during this exciting journey. To learn more about how Nationwide supports first-time homeowners, visit our First Time Home Buyer Guide and Resources for New Beginnings.  

Methodology: 
Nationwide commissioned Edelman Data and Intelligence to conduct a national online survey, fielded from January 17 to January 28, 2025, of 1,009 U.S. adults, age 18+, who have purchased their first home (no prior homeownership) within the past 12 months. 

After receiving more than 4,600 nominations across 13 states and selecting 96 finalists for the 2024-2025 Golden Owl Award, Nationwide and its partners are proud to announce the Golden Owl Award grand prize winners and Ag Educators of the Year:

• California: Marc DeBernardi, Santa Maria High School
• Illinois: Ralph Allen, Mt. Pulaski High School
• Indiana: Jim Wildermuth, North Miami High School
• Iowa: Laura Brecht, Prairie High School of Cedar Rapids
• Kansas: Melisa Bertz, Prairie View High School
• Kentucky: Jacob Falwell, Calloway County High School
• Maryland: Kathy Wojcik, Applications and Research Laboratory
• Missouri: Scott Stone, Centralia High School
• Nebraska: Joel Miller, Hampon Public School
• New York: Amy Maxwell, Salem Central School District
• Ohio: Tom Holton, East Knox High School
• Pennsylvania: Krista Pontius, Greenwood High School  
• South Dakota: Dan Tonak, Willow Lake High School

Nationwide partnered with state FFA organizations to create the Golden Owl Award in 2018 to highlight the growing importance of ag educators and recognize the services of leading teachers. With 70 educators across 30 states leaving the profession in just two years¹, recognizing and supporting those preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders has never been more critical. The program provides funding to help support the teachers’ programs and elevate the learning opportunities for their students.

As grand prize winners, the teachers earn the title of their state’s Ag Educator of the Year, the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy, and $3,000 in funding to help bring new opportunities to their programs.²

“These outstanding teachers exemplify passion and devotion to shaping the future of their communities,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Their tireless efforts inspire the next generation of agriculture leaders, and we’re proud to recognize their invaluable contributions as Ag Educators of the Year.”

The impact of these educators is evident in stories like that of Jeffrey Stimmell, Ohio’s 2023 Ag Educator of the Year. When he joined the Delaware Area Career Center in 2014 to lead the agricultural science program at Big Walnut Local Schools, the program had just 40 students. Today, enrollment has grown to more than 230. “Together, we work to show students the different ways they can get engaged in agriculture,” Stimmell shared.

Each year, the selected honorees, chosen by established state committees, are awarded $500^2,3 in recognition of their contributions. Nationwide also contributes $5,000 to each of the participating state FFA organizations.

To read more about the state honorees, see past winners, view the full list of partners, or learn about the nomination process in select states, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.

^{[1] Stability in a Transitional Time: Factors Contributing to Agricultural Educator’s Decision to Remain in the Profession
[2] In accordance with Ohio law, cash prizes in Ohio are awarded to the winners’ school ag programs.
[3] Because of additional funding by AgCredit and Farm Credit Mid-America, cash prizes on behalf of the Ohio honorees and grand prize winners are $1,500 and $5,000, respectively.}

Nationwide plans to delegate the underwriting and management of all renewal policy opportunities included in this transaction – currently $1.2 billion in premium – to Ryan Re Underwriting Managers, a reinsurance managing general underwriter of Ryan Specialty (NYSE: RYAN), expanding the strategic alliance between Nationwide and Ryan Specialty established in 2019.

"By working with two respected names in the industry, this strategic acquisition reinforces Nationwide’s position as a diversified risk partner and creates an opportunity for us to expand our reinsurance footprint,” said Nationwide CEO Kirt Walker. “Nationwide’s collaboration with Ryan Specialty, and Ryan Re in particular, has positioned us to increase our presence in the specialty reinsurance market. This strategic move accelerates this progress, and we’re excited about the diverse portfolio it unlocks.”

“We are confident in our ability to meet the protection needs of Markel’s clients and deliver long-term value to broker partners,” said Mark Berven, President of Property & Casualty at Nationwide. “Our partnership brings the scale, reach and specialized capabilities to offer these clients a broad suite of products, including specialty lines that enhance their options in meaningful ways.”

Berven also noted that the agreement provides the opportunity to strategically expand the team with specialized reinsurance underwriting talent, ensuring the continuation of exceptional service to renewing clients.

Transaction terms have not been publicly disclosed.

The construction industry enters the second half of 2025 facing a complex mix of economic pressures and evolving market dynamics. The Nationwide Economics team recently released its Mid-Year 2025 Construction Industry Report, which highlights several key trends:

• Overall Construction Activity: Spending has leveled off amid high interest rates and policy uncertainty. Nonresidential construction is particularly vulnerable to these headwinds.
• Labor Market: Hiring has slowed, wage growth has normalized and job openings have declined – but labor supply remains a long-term concern.
• Input Costs: Material price inflation has eased but remains elevated. New tariffs and global supply chain disruptions could reignite cost pressures.
• Construction of Buildings: Growth has moderated, especially in commercial and manufacturing sectors. Infrastructure spending remains a bright spot, though future funding is uncertain.
• Heavy and Civil Engineering: Public investment in highways and utilities continues, but political shifts may impact future funding.
• Specialty Trade Contractors: Labor shortages and rising costs challenge profitability, especially in residential trades.

These trends highlight the need for construction businesses to adopt proactive strategies to navigate the uncertainties and maintain profitability. For a deeper look into these trends, read on or check out the podcast below for more commentary.

Deep Dive
Industry Trends: A Plateau in Construction Activity
Construction spending has stagnated over the past year, with both residential and nonresidential sectors feeling the impact of elevated borrowing costs and economic uncertainty. The Dodge Construction Index – a leading indicator of nonresidential activity – has weakened, suggesting continued softness through the remainder of 2025. While government stimulus has supported select sectors like healthcare and education, broader investment remains cautious. Tariffs on imported materials and shifting fiscal priorities further cloud the outlook.

Labor Trends: Cooling Demand, Persistent Shortages
The construction labor market, which rebounded strongly post-pandemic, is now showing signs of cooling. Job openings have declined below pre-COVID levels, and wage growth has returned to historical norms. However, structural labor shortages persist, particularly in skilled trades. Immigration policy and visa restrictions could further constrain labor supply. As construction activity slows, hiring is expected to remain subdued through 2025, especially in residential and commercial sectors.

Input Cost Trends: Stabilization with Upside Risk
After surging in recent years, construction material costs have stabilized. However, prices remain well above pre-pandemic levels. New tariffs on imports from key trading partners – including China, Canada and Mexico – pose a significant risk of renewed inflation. Businesses are responding by delaying projects, reducing loan demand and investing in productivity-enhancing technologies. The uncertain trade environment and potential supply chain disruptions could keep input costs volatile into 2026.

Construction of Buildings: Moderation Across Sectors
Employment in building construction remains positive but has slowed. Manufacturing construction, which surged following the CHIPS Act, has leveled off. Infrastructure spending from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to support activity, but future funding is uncertain amid shifting federal priorities. Commercial construction – particularly office space – faces headwinds from economic uncertainty and evolving workplace trends. While reshoring could boost manufacturing in the long term, near-term growth is expected to remain modest.

Heavy and Civil Engineering: Infrastructure Momentum with Political Risk
Public investment in highways, water systems and waste infrastructure has grown significantly, driven by recent federal stimulus. However, contract awards have slowed, and proposed budget cuts from the Trump administration could limit future funding. Labor remains a major cost driver, accounting for up to 35% of expenses in this sector. Tariffs on concrete and other materials could further strain margins. Despite these challenges, the sector remains a relative bright spot in the construction landscape.

Specialty Trade Contractors: Labor-Driven Cost Pressures
Specialty trade contractors – especially in residential construction – have seen strong demand but face rising labor costs due to persistent worker shortages. Electricians, the largest trade group, are retiring faster than they are being replaced, exacerbating the talent gap. While material cost inflation has eased, tariffs and supply chain disruptions could drive prices up by 5–10% in the coming year. Nonresidential trades are gaining ground, but elevated interest rates may limit growth opportunities across the board.

Nationwide’s Construction Practice Leader, Tonya Hahn:
The Economics team’s report clearly shows that the construction industry in 2025 is defined by economic, political and operational uncertainty. Businesses face a challenging environment marked by rising costs, labor constraints and uneven demand. In this context, implementing robust risk management programs is more critical than ever. Tailored insurance solutions, proactive loss control and expert guidance can help construction firms mitigate risk, protect margins and position themselves for long-term success.

But here’s the good news: while today’s parents may be worried, they’re getting proactive about helping their kids become better drivers and are better equipped to take action.   

What Keeps Parents Up at Night? 
Parents’ top worries are as familiar as they are frightening: driving in poor weather (52%), distracted driving (42%), and speeding or reckless behavior (36%). And the risks are real. Nearly one in four parents say their teen uses social media or even get themselves ready (apply makeup, style hair) while driving. Some report their teens are texting (23%) or watching videos (18%) behind the wheel—behaviors that dramatically increase crash risk.  

Safety Starts at Home 
The survey also reveals that 95% of parents talk to their teens about safe driving at least once a month. When those conversations are paired with real-time insights and incentives, they become even more powerful.  

And while only 26% of teens currently use dashcams, a whopping 96% of parents believe they’re valuable for promoting accountability. As comfort with AI-enabled monitoring grows, families are embracing a future where technology supports—not replaces—good judgment.  

Using Technology to Support Safer Teen Driving  
Families can use telematics tools not just to monitor, but to actively support safer driving habits. Nationwide programs like SmartRide and the new Focused Driving Rewards are great tools to help parents encourage their teen driver with real-time feedback and incentives.   

“Parents want to feel confident that their teens are making smart choices behind the wheel,” says Casey Kempton, President of P&C Personal Lines at Nationwide. “These tools help make that possible—not just by monitoring behavior, but by encouraging better habits through positive reinforcement.”  

How the Programs Work 
SmartRide® tracks behaviors like hard braking, speeding, and phone use. It provides real-time feedback and can lead to insurance premium discounts for safe habits. The goal is to help teens learn from their driving experiences and build safer habits over time.  

Focused Driving Rewards®, a newer initiative, is open to all drivers—not just Nationwide customers. It’s designed to reduce phone-related distractions and reward safe driving with e-gift cards from popular retailers.  

Why It Matters 
Research shows that many drivers are open to rewards-based programs. The survey revealed 70% of all consumers would consider joining a rewards-based driving program, with half (50%) citing saving money on insurance as their top motivator. For parents, the emotional stakes are higher—44% say their primary reason is to improve their teen’s safety. In fact, 82% of parents say they’d be likely to enroll their teens in a program that rewards safe driving behavior.  

The Road Ahead 
Teen driving will always come with risks. But today’s families have more tools, more data, and more ways to stay connected than ever before. By combining open communication with smart technology, parents can shift from fear to confidence—one safe mile at a time.  

“This isn’t just about technology,” Kempton says. “It’s about creating a culture of accountability and shared responsibility on the road.”  

Want to help your teen become a safer driver? 
Explore Nationwide’s driving tools and resources here.  

For more than a decade, insurance customers have been turning to usage-based insurance for potential savings on their auto insurance. Now Nationwide is rewarding safe drivers in its usage-based insurance program with a discount on their homeowners premium.

Introducing Telematics Property Discount: The Columbus-based insurance and financial services company is unveiling its Telematics Property Discount—a first-of-its-kind program that looks at safe driving behavior to unlock savings on homeowners insurance.   

Currently available in 12 statesⁱ, the Telematics Property Discount is set to expand to more states this year.  

How it works: Customers enrolled in one of Nationwide’s telematics programs, SmartRide® or SmartMiles®, and have earned a qualifying discount based on their driving habits, will receive an average 5% discount on their Nationwide homeowners policyⁱⁱ—automatically applied at the next renewal.   

“This program is about recognizing responsibility in all aspects of our customers’ lives,” said Sarah Jacobs, Senior Vice President of P&C Personal Lines at Nationwide. “According to our data, safe drivers are also less likely to experience avoidable home-related damages.”  

Nationwide expects that over 50%ⁱⁱⁱ of its existing telematics customers would be eligible for this discount. Enrollment is seamless for customers. Once a qualifying auto telematics discount is earned, the Telematics Property Discount is automatically applied at the next homeowners policy renewal—no extra steps.   

Giving customers more control: According to Jacobs, the initiative aligns with Nationwide’s broader mission to empower customers.  

“We’re helping people move from being passive policyholders to active stewards of their homes and vehicles—it’s about building a relationship based on trust and shared responsibility,” she says. “The program is more than just a financial perk for our customers. By linking auto and home policies through behavior-based data, Nationwide is creating a more integrated insurance experience for them.”  

Nationwide’s Telematics Property Discount is a compelling example of how data, innovation, and customer insight can come together to create real value in an ever-evolving landscape, Jacobs feels.   

Go deeper: Learn more about usage-based insurance from Nationwide. 

ⁱ Available in: AR, AZ, MI, MO, MT, NE, OR, SD, TN, UT, WI, WV
ⁱⁱ Property policyholder must have a Nationwide auto policy enrolled in SmartRide or SmartMiles and achieve a policy-level driving score that meets or exceed qualifying standards. Details, availability, and actual savings vary based on coverages, state and underwriting company. National data, April 2025.
ⁱⁱⁱ National average data (excluding California), April 2025. 

Nationwide’s survey was fielded in April 2025 with 400 U.S. manufacturers and 200 independent insurance agents who support the sector. The research paints a clear picture of where opportunities and vulnerabilities are emerging – revealing manufacturers’ bullish outlook alongside agents’ perspective on the importance of strategic partnerships around risk mitigation and long-term planning.   

“Manufacturers are leaning into opportunity, and they’re looking for partners who can keep pace,” said Erika Melander, head of the national manufacturing practice for Nationwide. “This moment calls for tight alignment between business leaders and their insurance advisors to anticipate exposures, rethink risk mitigation strategies, and adapt to changing conditions.”

Trade policy and supply chain pressures
Trade policy is a potential double-edged sword for manufacturers. While 64% of manufacturing leaders expect tariffs to positively impact their business over the next year, they remain concerned about the effects on raw material costs, profit margins and supplier availability. Nearly half of agents agree with manufacturers’ concerns, saying tariffs are already weighing on clients by forcing price increases and weakening international competitiveness.

Manufacturers are responding with calculated steps to strengthen operations and reduce exposure:

• 64% are expanding their supplier base
• 52% are frontloading inventory
• 48% have reviewed or updated their business continuity plans

While global partners remain important for 75% of manufacturers, 35% report shifting to more U.S.-based suppliers due to trade uncertainty, with another 50% considering similar moves. Still, nearly half (45%) expect to rely on tariffed imports, fueling concern for 87% who worry that shifting trade policies could cause further supply chain delays and pricing disruptions. To manage financial strain:

• 32% of manufacturers plan to pass most rising costs on to customers
• 44% will absorb some costs and raise prices moderately
• 23% plan to absorb most rising costs without passing them on to customers

Agents echo this concern, with 7 in 10 calling supply chain disruption a serious and growing threat for manufacturers. Encouragingly, agents say about half of their clients have proactively reviewed insurance coverage to address potential disruption, and three-quarters of agents report growing client interest in endorsements such as contingent business interruption.

Technology brings opportunity – and risk
Technology is also seen as a critical driver of growth in the year ahead. Manufacturers are widely adopting digital tools to streamline operations, with:

• 91% implementing inventory management technology
• 83% integrating Internet of Things (IoT) solutions
• 83% adopting predictive maintenance technology
• 82% using robotics for automation of physical tasks

Meanwhile, many manufacturers are also leaning into AI technology to improve efficiency and stay competitive. Reported benefits from early AI adopters include improved forecasting, cost savings, product quality and supply chain agility.

Agents are in tune with this digital shift but flag potential risks, especially around AI. Key challenges they cited include risk of product defects (41%), integration challenges (40%), high costs (39%) and lack of internal expertise (34%).  

Talent remains a top concern
Manufacturers and agents align on another core challenge: talent.

• 64% of manufacturers report difficulty attracting and retaining skilled workers
• 28% say they can’t find candidates with critical skills
• 27% struggle to meet qualified workers’ compensation expectations
• 2 in 3 say younger workers do not view manufacturing as a desirable career path
• 7 in 10 agents say this workforce challenge is serious – and unlikely to improve soon

This ongoing labor strain has implications for workplace safety, continuity planning, and future operational capacity.

A strong role for insurance advisors
As manufacturers prepare for what’s next, agents are playing a valuable role in helping clients navigate risk. A focused, flexible strategy remains essential – and agents are increasingly seen as key partners in shaping it. Melander says manufacturers should prioritize three critical areas to strengthen their position in a complex and evolving economy:

• Technology: Continue scaling technology, from inventory management systems and automation to AI, to drive efficiency and resilience. As reliance on technology grows, 31% of manufacturers say strengthening their cybersecurity is one of their largest business opportunities over the next year, opening doors for agents to guide clients on cyber liability solutions.
• Talent: Redefine what a career in manufacturing looks like, emphasizing innovation, job security and purpose to appeal to the next generation.
• Risk Management: Partner with specialized insurance and risk advisors to reassess exposures, tailor coverage and develop mitigation strategies that support long-term needs. The good news: 84% of agents say they are familiar with how clients are responding to changing dynamics and 76% feel confident advising on insurance and risk mitigation related to global trade uncertainty. With 82% of manufacturers actively seeking this type of guidance, the agent’s role has never been more critical.

“Manufacturers who treat risk management as a strategic priority – not just a safety net – will be better equipped to weather volatility and sustain growth,” said Melander. “By aligning their talent strategy, embracing technology and working with experienced insurance partners to anticipate and mitigate risk, they’re building a more resilient and competitive future.”

Learn more about manufacturing insurance and risk management resources, and view the full findings from Nationwide’s survey here.

Methodology:
Nationwide commissioned Edelman Data and Intelligence to conduct a national online survey of 400 U.S. manufacturing business decision makers and 200 independent insurance agents who work with manufacturing clients from April 4 to April 21, 2025.

About the J.D. Power award: The J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Auto Insurance Study, measures customer satisfaction with auto insurance in 11 geographic regions. The category addressing usage-based insurance (UBI) along with diagnostics that influence UBI participants’ experience with their insurer’s usage-based auto products, ranks Nationwide as the highest-ranking auto insurer for usage-based insurance. The study also found Nationwide is #1 in Customer Satisfaction among auto insurers in Texas.  

What we’re saying: "As a protection company, customers look to us for innovative solutions to keep them safe," said Mark Berven, President and Chief Operating Officer, Nationwide Property & Casualty. "In addition to money-saving discounts, the technology powering usage-based insurance provides insights to improve driving behaviors, reduce distractions and make our roadways safer for everyone." 

For more than a decade: Nationwide launched their usage-based insurance product SmartRide® in 2012 and its pay-per-mile program SmartMiles® in 2019.  The products gained broader customer awareness during the pandemic as more people became open to auto insurance that is priced based on how safely or how much someone drives.   

Interested in test driving a telematics program  Nationwide has introduced the new Focused Driving Rewards® (FDR) programⁱⁱ, a first-of-its-kind initiative that offers reward for all drivers, customers and non-customers alike, for reducing phone use behind the wheel.  

Key program details include:  

• App-Based Participation: The program is managed through the Nationwide app, with participants earning points redeemable for gift cards when they avoid distractions over time.  
• Rewards Pilot Success: Preliminary results from an FDR pilot program suggests that about half of approximately 1,000 driver participants saw their distraction levels decrease—and for those who improved, distractions dropped by an average of 48%ⁱⁱⁱ.  
• No Strings Attached: FDR is open to everyone, not just Nationwide customers, and offers younger drivers up to $60 in gift cards every six months for those that keep their focus on the roads while driving.  
• Simplicity & Focus: The program only considers phone handling events (like tapping, hand-held calls, or phone motion), making it an easy way to try out a telematics experience and be rewarded for improved focus.  

What sets Nationwide apart: Using usage-based insurance to provide new ways to solve customers’ future needs, including helping drivers better understand and manage their risk through personalized insights and behavior-based feedback.  

Where usage-based insurance is headed: The programs will keep evolving to build the next generation of usage-based insurance offerings. This will provide continuous engagement and open possibilities for integrating further into current rating capabilities. New rating features are beginning to emerge that are not event-based features like the number of hard brakes we’ve seen in the past.    

Go Deeper: Learn more about usage-based insurance from Nationwide. 

ⁱ Nationwide received the highest score in the Usage Based Insurance (UBI) segment of the J.D. Power 2024-2025 U.S. Auto Insurance Satisfaction Studies of customers’ satisfaction with their auto insurance provider. Visit jdpower.com/awards for more details.

ⁱⁱ Focused Driving Rewards is not currently available in AK, CA, FL, HI, LA, MA, NY or OK.  Drivers 29 years and younger can earn up to $60 every 6 months. Drivers 30 years and older can earn $2.50 every 2 weeks, up to $30 every 6 months. Focused Driving Rewards is not insurance and does not require the purchase of a policy or a quote. Participation is optional and subject to terms and conditions. Nationwide may terminate the program at any time. Results pulled from drivers in the program though February 2025.

ⁱⁱⁱ Results pulled from drivers in the program through February 2025.

Hailstorms, with their sudden and destructive nature, can cause significant damage to vehicles and pose risks to personal safety. To address this hazard, Nationwide has partnered with a third party to alert Nationwide members¹ when inclement weather is forecast. Those who sign up to receive hail and weather text alerts will be notified up to 30 minutes before a storm producing hail greater than one inch is expected in their area, giving them time to move their cars to a covered location to reduce risk of hail damage. More information for agents is available here.   

“Nationwide’s text alert program enables our members to take a proactive ‘predict and prevent’ approach to protecting themselves and their property,” said Jeff Rommel, Senior Vice President, Personal Lines Operations for Nationwide. “Having time to take a few basic precautions ahead of a hailstorm can go a long way in staying safe and preventing damage.” 

With hailstones ranging in size from small pellets to baseball-sized chunks, the potential for costly damage is significant. According to Nationwide claims data, the cost of repairing hail-damaged cars ranges from $3,000 to $13,000, excluding total losses. Additionally, 20% of Nationwide-insured cars that are damaged by hail are declared a total loss and taken off the road after a hail event.  

According to insights provided by Tomorrow.io, the following regions are hail hotspots in the U.S.  

• Hail Alley: This region, stretching across parts of eastern Colorado, western Nebraska, and eastern Wyoming, is notorious for its frequent and severe hailstorms. Cities like Cheyenne, Denver, and Colorado Springs often experience multiple hailstorms each year. 
• The Great Plains: States like Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska experience a high number of hailstorms annually. A favorable overlap of specific atmospheric conditions in this region often creates an ideal scenario for hail. Dallas, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Wichita, Kansas City, and Omaha are particularly vulnerable. 
• The Midwest: Areas such as Missouri, Iowa, and Illinois also see significant hail activity. The varied weather patterns and frequent thunderstorms in cities like St. Louis, Des Moines, and Chicago contribute to the prevalence of hailstorms. 

How to prepare for hail at home: 

• Tidy up the garage to park vehicles inside when a hailstorm is approaching.  
• Before a hailstorm, move vehicles into the garage or a covered spot. Make sure to close the garage door completely.  
• Ensure that pets and family are safely indoors before the storm. 

How to be protected from hail when on the road: 

• Stay inside your vehicle during a hailstorm. 
• Drive to a covered spot such as a parking garage to shelter. Do not stop under an overpass or bridge and block traffic. 
• Once the vehicle has stopped, ensure safety by shielding your eyes with something like a piece of clothing. If possible, get onto the floor face down or lie on the seat with your back to the windows. 

Eligible Nationwide members may click here for more information on how to enroll in the alert program. Nationwide’s hail and weather alert service is available to members in all states except Hawaii, Alaska, Florida and California. Hail is the first type of targeted weather alert offered to eligible Nationwide members, with plans to expand the program to alerts for other perils.  

¹Nationwide customers who have Auto and Multi-line Auto and Homeowner coverage

Devastating wildfires have affected thousands of people and businesses this year, leaving a lasting impact. The Nature Conservancy (TNC), a global environmental nonprofit and the world’s leading nonprofit organization addressing fire issues, conducts controlled burns to restore health and diversity to natural lands. Since 1962, TNC has conducted controlled burns to balance the role of fire in nature and help communities prepare for, manage and live safely with fire.

Recognizing the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires, the Nationwide Foundation has approved $750,000 in funding since 2023 to help support TNC’s North America Fire program and fire practitioner networks. For the past 20 years, this program has been instrumental in restoring the natural role of fire in ecosystems.  

“Understanding the critical need for proactive measures, our investment in The Nature Conservancy aims to mitigate the impact of disasters like destructive wildfires,” said Chad Jester, president of the Nationwide Foundation. “By supporting controlled burns and other fire management practices, we can help restore the natural balance of ecosystems, building a safer, more resilient future for all.”

TNC uses controlled burns to maintain healthy landscapes by mimicking natural, low intensity burns that reduce flammable vegetation and accumulated fuels. Controlled burns have been proven to enhance biodiversity, lower risks over time and support the health and sustainability of natural habitats. The vital work and research conducted by TNC supports communities and nature in over 80 countries and territories and protects more than 125 million acres of land.

“We’re so appreciative of the partnership with the Nationwide Foundation. We’ve received some federal funding in support of our work, but the private foundation funding is just so critical to support the diversity of practitioners,” said Marek Smith, TNC North America Fire Director and Fire Networks Co-Director.

Mark Berven, President and Chief Operating Officer of Nationwide Property & Casualty, recently spoke with Marek Smith on how TNC is working to reduce environmental risks as well as science-backed strategies and practical approaches to build resiliency in communities.

Click here to watch Mark and Marek’s full discussion, and learn more about TNC's Many Paths Project. 

This partnership comes at a time when regulatory compliance is challenging many businesses: a recent Nationwide survey found that at least 1 in 5 commercial insurance customers feel their business is unprepared to respond to new regulations. Furthermore, rules and standards for propane distributors can vary significantly from one state to another, adding another layer of complexity.

Now, Nationwide customers who work with P3 Propane can benefit from expert resources to help enhance their regulatory compliance and meet critical local and federal requirements and best practices in a more cost-effective way. Nationwide policyholders are eligible for preferred pricing on these services.

“Nationwide is committed to providing our customers with the best tools and resources to ensure their safety and productivity,” said Laramie Sandquist, Nationwide Agribusiness Risk Management leader. “Our partnership with P3 Propane Safety is a testament to this commitment, offering innovative solutions that help fuel distributors navigate complex and lengthy regulations and reduce operational risks. No matter where you’re at with propane safety, P3 will work with you to prioritize areas of improvement and develop a more complete safety and compliance program.”

“Nationwide is a well-respected insurance provider within the propane industry whose core values align closely with ours,” said Jerry Schimmel, vice president of sales at P3 Propane Safety. “We look forward to working together to offer our mutual customers the high-quality care and attention that both P3 Propane Safety and Nationwide are known for.”

Customers interested in learning more about Nationwide’s new partnership with P3 Propane Safety can visit P3Propane.com/nationwide-insurance-partner.

Additional resources for agriculture customers
This new partnership adds to a robust suite of risk management tools and capabilities available to Nationwide’s agriculture insurance customers at a preferred pricing rate, including services tailored for fuel distributors.

In 2022, the insurer announced a partnership with Razor Tracking, offering telematics and fleet management solutions. Razor Tracking’s solutions provide fuel distributors with real-time fleet tracking, driver performance monitoring and vehicle diagnostics, helping to improve driver safety as well as delivery reliability.   

Nationwide customers also have discounted access to SambaSafety’s comprehensive driver risk management solution. SambaSafety centralizes motor vehicle record, DOT and telematics data into a single view, delivering actionable alerts and targeted training to help fuel distributors easily manage driver safety and comply with licensing requirements.  

“Our dedication to risk management and increasing customer access to critical safety services is unwavering,” said Sandquist. “By collaborating with industry leaders like P3 Propane Safety, Razor Tracking, SambaSafety and many others, Nationwide provides our agriculture customers with comprehensive solutions that address their unique needs and challenges.”

To learn more about risk management tools and capabilities for agriculture insurance customers, visit Nationwide’s Agtech solutions webpage.  

Nationwide's survey of commercial property stakeholders, including commercial property owners, new construction builders and business owners, revealed a significant increase in concern about severe weather since 2023. This heightened level of concern is particularly notable among residents in states susceptible to wildfires or hurricanes.

“Our research shows one-third of property owners have faced natural disaster damage in the past five years, and that number jumps significantly to over half in wildfire-prone states and nearly two-thirds in hurricane-prone states,” said Mark McGhiey, Risk Management and Client Services leader at Nationwide. “This data highlights the urgent need for property stakeholders to not only be aware of these risks, but to take proactive steps in mitigating them.”

Property Stakeholders are on high alarm
More than two thirds (67%) of commercial property stakeholders are highly concerned about damages from severe weather and natural disasters, a 5-point increase from 2023, but this rises to 93% (+28 points) and 86% (+16 points) in wildfire- and hurricane-prone states, respectively.

Of the perceived weather risks they face, national property stakeholders are most concerned about damaging winds (88%), flooding (78%), lightning (78%) and tropical storms or hurricanes (75%) – with levels of concern across each having increased more than 10 percentage points since 2023.

Respondents are also more concerned about the impacts of business interruption (41%, +13 points) and structural damage (50%, +8 points) to their company properties compared to 2023.

Businesses are taking on financial risks
Despite their weather concerns, 26% of commercial property stakeholders admit knowingly carrying inadequate insurance coverage to account for severe weather events, an 8-point increase. Most insurance agents also say at least 4 in 10 commercial customers they serve are underinsured for severe weather impacts.

At the same time, property owners are looking for relief on insurance costs. Three-quarters (76%) are actively seeking opportunities to cut costs on their insurance policies and 42% say they’re willing to reduce insurance coverage to shrink premiums.

Stakeholders are also doing less to proactively mitigate risks, suggesting economic uncertainty and increased construction costs are barriers to taking action.

• Only 31% report willingness to invest in measures that improve their properties’ resilience to weather events, a 22-point drop from 2023.
• Those who are willing to improve their properties are open to paying up to $10,000 to do so, down 50% from 2023*.

Protection requires more than a policy
While 95% of national property stakeholders say they have a response plan in place in the event of severe weather damage, 1 in 5 agents (19%) estimate that less than half of their clients have a risk management plan in place to prevent weather disruptions.

The research also suggests agents and carriers can do more to help fill these gaps with customers. Only 34% of agents prioritize sharing carrier-provided risk management resources for their clients related to weather preparation. Another 33% only do so when asked by their customers.

"Protection against severe weather requires more than just insurance policies; it demands a robust business continuity plan. Without a comprehensive approach that includes both, business owners will be stuck in an endless cycle of financial strain and disruption as weather becomes more dangerous and unpredictable across the US, not just on the coasts,” said McGhiey. “It's imperative that property owners, agents and carriers work together to bridge these protection gaps and ensure resilience against future climate risks."

Learn more about weather risks and risk management resources, and view the full findings from Nationwide’s Agency Forward survey here.

Methodology:
Nationwide commissioned Edelman Data and Intelligence to conduct a national online survey of 500 commercial property stakeholders and 400 independent insurance agents from January 24 to February 13, 2025.

*Sample size <100, directional findings only.

Nationwide has tapped Michael Tripp to lead its Personal Lines Sales and Distribution organization. He will report to Casey Kempton, Nationwide’s President of P&C Personal Lines.  

Tripp brings a wealth of knowledge and experience most recently from his time at AmTrust as the head of MidAmerica Region, where he successfully drove significant growth in premium while effectively managing portfolio and profit targets. Prior to that he held positions at Chubb, The Hanover Insurance Group and The Hartford.   

“I’m thrilled to join Nationwide at such a pivotal time for Personal Lines.  As we deepen our commitment to the independent agency channel, my focus is on strengthening distribution, expanding our geographic reach, and driving performance through sharper insights and robust partnerships.  We have the team, the strategy, and the momentum to take this business to the next level.” said Tripp.   

At Chubb, Michael served as vice president, Small Business Sales, and led the Southwest Region as Small Commercial RVP. Prior to Chubb, he held sales leadership positions at The Hanover and The Hartford, demonstrating his ability to drive profitable growth across local, regional and national territories with independent agency partners.  

“Michael is known for his collaborative approach, working seamlessly with product, underwriting, actuarial and field sales teams,” said Kempton. “Tripp has embraced agent feedback to achieve outstanding results. His strategic insights and proven track record will be instrumental as Nationwide elevates our sales strategies and enhances the agent experience.”  

Tripp started his new role on April 28. 

To help address this trend, Nationwide created the Golden Owl Award in partnership with state FFA organizations to celebrate and invest in the educators keeping agriculture strong. Just ask Jeffrey Stimmell, who was named Ohio’s 2023 Ag Educator of the Year. When he was hired in 2014 by the Delaware Area Career Center to take over the agricultural science program in the Big Walnut Local School District, he had about 40 students. Today, more than 230 students are enrolled in the program – so many that he had to hire a second teacher. “Together, we work to show students the different ways they can get engaged in agriculture,” Stimmell said.

After receiving more than 4,600 nominations across 13 states for the 2024-2025 Golden Owl Award, Nationwide and its partners are proud to recognize 96 educators as finalists.

California:

• Vernon Clark, Bakersfield-Foothill High School
• Marc DeBernardi, Santa Maria High School
• Carrie Phillips, Altaville-Bret Harte High School
• Lori Porter, Livermore High School

Iowa:

• Meghan Bond, Central Jr. & Sr. High of Elkader
• Laura Brecht, Prairie High School of Cedar Rapids
• Ryan Faught, Forest City High School
• Kaylea Hansmann, West Sioux High School of Hawarden
• Andrew Johnson, Clarinda High School
• Alex Rodgers, Southeast Warren High School of Liberty Center
• Andrea Rouse, Des Moines Area Community College of Ankeny

Illinois:

• Ralph Allen, Mt. Pulaski High School
• Darin Blunier, Midland High School
• Jessica Chipman, Flanagan Cornell High School
• Jeff Robison, Goreville High School
• Bill Waggoner, Kaskaskia College
• Kirsten Wyatt, Paxton-Buckley-Loda High School

Indiana:

• Jamie Earnhart, Central Noble High School
• Chris Kauffman, Westfield High School
• Jeff Miller, Sullivan High School
• Janna Morgan, North Putnam High School
• Rebekah Peterson, DeKalb High School
• Kenna Slough, Shakamak High School
• McCord Snider, East Central High School
• Jim Wildermuth, North Miami High School

Kansas:

• Melisa Bertz, Prairie View High School
• Steve Buss, Jefferson West High School
• Janet Gottstine, Logan High School
• Emma Lehmann, Neodesha High School
• Elissa Mullinix, Manhattan High School
• Kelly Sipes, Stanton Co. High School
• Lauren VanAllen, Clearwater High School

Kentucky:

• Keely Cooper, Madison Central High School
• Carrie Davis, Greenup County High School
• Wesley Estes, Logan County High School
• Jacob Falwell, Calloway County High School
• Harvey Franklin, Lincoln County High School
• Frank Gifford, Robertson County High School
• Greg Hillard, Ohio County High School
• Lewis Mink, Rockcastle County High School
• Jacklyn Post, Owen County High School
• Jeffrey Shaffer, Western Hills High School
• Makenzie Thomas, Marion County High School
• Maen Woods, Caldwell County High School

Maryland:

• Rachael Coffey, Cecil County School of Technology
• Erika Edwards, Hereford High School
• Amanda Farmer, Boonsboro High School
• Brittany Sentelle, Frederick High School
• Kathy Wojcik, Applications and Research Laboratory

Missouri:

• Tonya Jedlicka, Southern Missouri Technical Institute
• Randy Plattner, Grand River Technical School
• Gary Reichel, California R-I High School
• Jay Shepherd, Mount Vernon High School
• Michael Slater, Grand River Technical School
• Rylyn Small, East Prairie High School
• Scott Stone, Centralia High School

Nebraska:

• Cole Blomendahl, Mead Public High School
• Kathleen Craig, North Platte Public Schools
• Dave Ference, Ord Public School
• Amy Kohtz, Friend Public School - Exeter-Milligan/Friend FFA Chapter
• Joel Miller, Hampon Public School
• Ellen Trahan, Keya Paha County Schools

New York:

• Tara Burke, Tri-Valley Secondary School
• Matthew Greene, Alexandria Central High School
• Lily Anne Lachnor, Marion Junior/Senior High School
• Chelsey Mahany, Groton Junior/Senior High School
• Amy Maxwell, Salem Central School District
• Katie Mitrowski, Cattaraugus Little Valley High School
• Tanya Nickerson, Springville Griffith Institute
• McKensey Periard, Owen D Young Central School
• Cathleen Reeder, Afton Junior/Senior High School
• Tamara Stanford, John Bowne High School

Ohio:

• Jaime Chenevey, West Holmes High School
• Haley Davis, New Lexington High School
• Alison Derringer, Twin Valley South High School
• Kris Guthrie, Ridgedale High School
• Donna Hohman, Carey High School
• Tom Holton, East Knox High School
• Alexis Howell, Evergreen High School
• Laura Kackley, Meadowbrook High School
• Jamie Loudon, Georgetown High School
• Nejla Shaheen, Bio-Med Science Academy High School

Pennsylvania:

• Gretchen Dingman, Tri-Valley High School
• Nicole Hall, Millville Area High School
• Krista Pontius, Greenwood High School
• Kara Ruffalo, Avella High School

South Dakota:

• Austin Bishop, Belle Fourche High School
• Josh Christiansen, Harrisburg High School
• Sara Colombe, Milbank High School
• Reed Johnson, Philip High School
• Nathan Knutson, Viborg-Hurley High School
• Sarah McClure, Gettysburg High School
• Susan Roudabush, Ethan High School
• Dan Tonak, Willow Lake High School

“Behind every thriving ag program is a dedicated teacher planting the seeds for tomorrow’s food and farm innovations,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “By spotlighting their impact through the Golden Owl Award, we’re not only honoring their commitment, we’re also investing in the future of agriculture and the students who will shape it.”

Each year, the selected honorees, chosen by established state committees, are awarded $500^2,3 in recognition of their contributions. One finalist in each state is then selected as the Ag Educator of the Year and receives an additional $3,000^2,3 and the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy. Nationwide also contributes $5,000 to each of the participating state FFA organizations.

To read more about the state honorees, see past winners, or learn about the nomination process in select states, visit www.GoldenOwlAward.com.

Nationwide’s April 2025 survey, which polled both personal drivers and company drivers, offers insurers, agents and fleet managers a full-spectrum view of roadway behavior in 2025.

Driving feels more dangerous today, but people feel their own cell phone use is acceptable
Compared to last year, roughly 9 in 10 consumers feel other motorists are using their phones more behind the wheel (92%), driving faster (92%), more aggressive (92%) and more reckless (88%).

Given these worries, only 15% of consumers rate other motorists around them as “very good” or “excellent” drivers, but 8 in 10 rate their own driving highly.

However, these beliefs fly in the face of their own risky behaviors on the roads:

• 20% admit to texting while driving
• 15% use social media
• 13% are watching videos
• 11% are reading or writing emails

Phones aren’t the only devices stealing drivers’ attention on the roads.

• Nearly half (47%, a 6-point increase from 2024) also express concerns that built-in touchscreens and displays designed for navigation, communication and entertainment contribute to driver distraction.

“Far too many people believe they’re immune to distraction or that a ‘quick check’ won’t hurt,” says Casey Kempton, Nationwide’s president of Personal Lines. “Our latest survey data clearly reveals that these split-second decisions can have serious consequences. Nationwide is committed to driver safety and, no matter the use, a phone in the hand while driving is a dangerous distraction.” 

Explore the full personal lines findings here.

As risks mount, 7 in 10 company drivers worry about death, injury or lawsuits on work routes
The research also found that while company drivers routinely dodge distracted motorists on their work routes, many also confess to risky behaviors behind the wheel that could lead to dangerous and costly accidents. As roads become more dangerous, 70% of company drivers say they worry about being killed or hurt in a collision, or being held liable for the damages.

In line with consumers, 89% of company drivers rate their own driving as good or excellent, but less than 60% say the same of other drivers.

While 75% of company drivers believe that the use of phones by other motorists has increased over the past year, at least 1 in 5 company drivers (21%) also admit to frequent distractions while driving for work. These distractions mainly include adjusting their GPS systems, using cell phones (calls, texts and social media), eating or drinking, and fiddling with their radio or music.  

Staffing shortages may also be fueling riskier behaviors. Four in 10 drivers (44%, a 5-point increase from 2024) say their employer is struggling to hire or retain qualified drivers, a challenge that’s leading to:

• Increased workloads (72%, +11 points)
• Longer driving hours (71%, +13 points)
• Difficulty meeting deadlines (57%, +10 points)
• Decreased training quality (54%, +15 points)
• Reduced focus on safety (49%, +15 points)

These added pressures are showing up behind the wheel as 53% regularly take work phone calls and roughly a quarter are reading/responding to work text messages (28%) or emails (24%) while driving. Notably, this number clashes with the 1 in 5 company drivers who admit to feeling distracted while driving, suggesting that many respondents participate in these risky behaviors but may not actually perceive them as leading to distractions – a significant and dangerous perception gap. Even more alarming, 41% of drivers believe staffing shortages have negatively impacted their own driving, a 20-point increase from 2024.

“Company drivers are overwhelmed, distracted and in many cases, worried. When nearly half say staffing shortages are affecting their driving, and 70% fear serious consequences from a crash, it’s a clear signal that fleet drivers are under stress,” said Mark McGhiey, Risk Management and Client Services leader at Nationwide. “While comprehensive fleet safety programs are critical for all employers with drivers, this isn’t just about better planning or stricter rules; it’s about building a culture of safety that supports drivers through robust training, smarter tools, and a commitment to their wellbeing every time they start the engine.”

Access the full commercial driver findings here.

Modern problems are calling for smarter solutions
Both employers and insurers are turning to innovative tools to help drivers stay focused and safe. Nationwide’s research shows that technology like dash cams, telematics and hands-free policies are gaining significant traction and reshaping how drivers and companies manage risk.

On the commercial side, fleet operators are making meaningful strides with tools like dash cams, hands-free policies and ongoing driver monitoring.

• Dash cam usage among company drivers has jumped 29 points year-over-year, now installed in 84% of work vehicles.
• Nearly two-thirds of drivers say their employer requires them, and more companies are also enforcing hands-free policies (44%) and using continuous motor vehicle record monitoring (71%) to proactively address risk. 

For personal drivers, although only 20% currently use dash cams, drivers overwhelmingly agree the right tools can make a measurable difference.

• Nationwide has launched Focused Driver Rewards^®* – a first of its kind program that rewards all drivers, regardless of their insurer, for reducing phone use while driving. The mobile app tracks phone handling events and allows participants to earn gift cards – up to $60 every six months – for staying focused on the road. In a recent pilot program, nearly half of participants improved their driving focus, with distractions dropping by an average of 48%.

“The path forward is clear: smarter, data-driven solutions are key to building safer roads and more confident drivers,” said Kempton. “It will take continued collaboration between insurers, employers and everyday drivers to turn these insights into impact.”

^{Methodology:
Nationwide commissioned Edelman Data & Intelligence (DXI) to conduct a nationally representative online survey of 1,000 general consumers and 400 commercial drivers** from March 5-18, 2025.} 

^{*Focused Driving Rewards is not currently available in AK, CA, FL, HI, LA, MA, NY or OK.  Drivers 29 years and younger can earn up to $60 every 6 months. Drivers 30 years and older can earn $2.50 every 2 weeks, up to $30 every 6 months. Focused Driving Rewards is not insurance and does not require the purchase of a policy or a quote. Participation is optional and subject to terms and conditions. Nationwide may terminate the program at any time.}

^{**Commercial driver audience does not include long-haul trucking, tow trucks, app-based delivery drivers (e.g., DoorDash), or large corporate delivery drivers (FedEx, Amazon, UPS, etc.)}

Phones continue to distract 
While most drivers are familiar with distracted driving laws—such as texting restrictions (81%), hands-free requirements (76%), handheld phone bans (74%), and related penalties (67%)—many remain skeptical about their impact. In fact, fewer than half (48%) believe these regulations are effective in reducing distracted driving behaviors. 

“Far too many people believe they’re immune to distraction or that a ‘quick check’ won’t hurt,” says Casey Kempton, Nationwide’s President of Personal Lines. “Our latest survey data clearly reveals that these split-second decisions can have serious consequences. Nationwide is committed to driver safety, a phone in the hand while driving is a dangerous distraction.” 

Phones aren’t the only devices that are taking drivers’ attention off the road. Nearly half (47% up +6% from 2024) of consumers also express concerns that built-in touch screens and displays designed for navigation, communication, and entertainment actually contribute significantly to driver distraction. 

When used correctly tech can be a solution for safer driving 
While the data highlights the pervasive nature of distraction, it also points to solutions.  

Drivers who take conscious steps to limit phone use and other temptations can meaningfully reduce their likelihood of accidents. The Nationwide survey also shows growing consumer support for telematics tools like dashcams and AI-enabled monitoring systems to encourage safer driving behavior: 

• 85% of consumers agree dashcams encourage safer driving practices. 
• 94% of consumers say dashcams provide valuable evidence during accidents or disputes, including rideshare contexts.  
• 20% already have dashcams installed, and 60% indicate comfort with AI-enabled dashcams that monitor driver behaviors.  
• 41% believe using AI-powered dashcams should qualify drivers for lower insurance premiums. 

Nationwide’s ‘Focused Driving Rewards®’ Can Encourage Safer Habits 
To help combat these issues, Nationwide is introducing the new Focused Driving Rewards (FDR) program*, a first-of-its-kind initiative that rewards all drivers, both existing Nationwide members and non-customers, for reducing phone use behind the wheel.  

Key details include: 

• App-Based Participation: The program is managed through the Nationwide app, with participants earning points redeemable for gift cards when they avoid distractions over time. 
• Rewards Pilot Success: Preliminary results from an FDR pilot program suggests that about half of approximately 1,000 driver participants saw their distraction levels decrease—and for those who improved, distractions dropped by an average of 48%. 
• No Strings Attached: FDR is open to everyone, not just Nationwide customers, and offers up to $60 every six months in gift cards for those that keep their focus on the roads while driving. 
• Simplicity & Focus: The program only considers phone handling events (like tapping, hand-held calls, or phone motion), making it an easy way to try out a telematics experience and be rewarded for improved focus. 

“We believe that putting your phone down while driving can save lives and make roads safer and we’re willing to reward people for it,” says Kelly Hernandez, Nationwide’s AVP of Personal Lines Telematics. “With Focused Driving Rewards, we’re offering an incentive that’s simple, and open to all, because every driver on the road has a stake in making our communities safer.” 

Addressing driver distraction goes beyond a single solution—it requires awareness, commitment, and action on the part of everyone behind the wheel. Through personalized feedback on phone distractions and rewarding safe habits, Nationwide hopes to spark a shift in mindset that will help reduce distractions. 

For more information on Nationwide’s Focused Driving Rewards program click here or download the Nationwide mobile app to get started—also visit the distracted driving resource center for additional resources.   

Methodology 
Nationwide commissioned Edelman Data & Intelligence (DXI) to conduct a nationally representative online survey of 1,000 general consumers and 400 commercial drivers from March 5-18, 2025. 

*Focused Driving Rewards is not currently available in AK, CA, FL, HI, LA, MA, NY or OK.  Drivers 29 years and younger can earn up to $60 every 6 months. Drivers 30 years and older can earn $2.50 every 2 weeks, up to $30 every 6 months. Focused Driving Rewards is not insurance and does not require the purchase of a policy or a quote. Participation is optional and subject to terms and conditions. Nationwide may terminate the program at any time.

The company has also taken a leadership position in defending against common but deadly hazards in rural America. Since initiating its national Grain Bin Safety campaign in 2014, Nationwide and its partners have contributed nearly $2 million in equipment and training to first responders, helping save 13 lives. Additionally, the company’s new Let’s Champion Rider Safety initiative aims to curb alarming statistics around the dangers of improper ATV and UTV use.

On March 31, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig recognized Nationwide with an Ag Leader Award for its efforts to help the agriculture community. The award was presented during the 12th Annual Iowa Ag Leaders Dinner, held on National Ag Day, as part of the state’s weeklong Iowa Ag Week celebration.

Brad Liggett, President of Agribusiness at Nationwide, expressed his gratitude: “We are honored to receive the Ag Leader Award from Secretary Naig. This recognition underscores our commitment to the safety and well-being of the agricultural community. We will continue to champion initiatives that protect and support those who feed America.”

Nationwide continues these advocacy efforts today and encourages interested parties to get involved. Visit Nationwide’s Grain Bin Safety page or Let’s Champion Rider Safety page to learn more.

State of the roadways:

• 89% of company drivers rate their own driving as good or excellent, but less than 60% say the same of other drivers on the road.
• At least 1 in 5 company drivers (21%) admit to being frequently distracted while driving for work—the most common distractions being GPS systems, cell phone use (calls, texts, social media), eating or drinking, and adjusting their radio or music.
• But it’s not just them: compared to a year ago, company drivers think other motorists are using their phones more behind the wheel (69%) and driving faster (66%) and more aggressive (70%) today.
• Employees may also be feeling work pressures: 53% are regularly taking work phone calls and roughly a quarter are reading/responding to work texts (28%) or emails (24%) while driving.
  • Another 40% are frequently taking personal phone calls behind the company wheel.

Staffing shortages and safety effects:
Staffing shortages are likely contributing to the challenges drivers are facing, leading to heavier workloads and heightened safety concerns as 4 in 10 drivers say their company is struggling to hire or retain qualified drivers. This year’s data revealed a 10-point jump across the board in drivers who say staffing shortages have increased their workload (72%), required them to work longer hours (71%), made it harder to meet deadlines (57%), decreased the quality of training (54%) and reduced the focus on safety and compliance (49%).

• 48% also report that their employer has reduced hiring criteria due to talent shortages.
• And most concerning: 41% of drivers say the staffing shortages have negatively impacted their driving.

Increased use of dash cams and hands-free policies:
Many employers are adopting proactive measures to minimize dangerous behaviors and phone distractions among fleet drivers, but there are still opportunities to further enhance safety initiatives. Implementation of dash cam requirements and hands-free driving policies have grown significantly in the past 12 months, but enforcement of those policies varies.

• 84% of company drivers have a dash cam installed in their work vehicle – a 29-point year over year increase that signals a growing commitment to improve driver behavior, reduce liability and improve overall fleet safety.
  • Nearly two-thirds (65%) say their employer requires a dash cam (+27 points) while a quarter say they’re just encouraged and 10% don’t feel any pressure to use one.
• 44% of company drivers report that their employer enforces a hands-free driving policy and monitors their cell phone usage while driving – a 10-point increase from last year.
  • 24% have a hands-free policy but don’t monitor cell phone usage
  • 22% do not allow cell phone use at all while driving
  • 10% don’t have any form of policy or monitoring in place
• 71% also report their employer uses continuous motor vehicle record monitoring, such as SambaSafety.

"The sharp rise in dash cam usage and hands-free policies sends a clear message: employers are serious about tackling distractions and protecting their drivers,” said Mark McGhiey, risk management and client services leader at Nationwide. “With at least 1 in 5 drivers admitting to frequent distractions behind the wheel, and the industry’s belief that this number may be even higher, it’s clear that policy alone isn't enough—consistent driver engagement and training is crucial to turning these efforts into safer roads for everyone.”

Training can help ease concerns:
With collision concerns top of mind, 69% of company drivers fear that a crash will affect their employer’s reputation or their future job prospects. About 1 in 5 (19%) also say their employer has faced legal action in the past due to a driving-related incident. 

While 87% feel their management prioritizes driver safety, 8 in 10 also wish for more training to help prevent accidents.

• Most employers offer training around critical driving safety topics, but at least 3 in 10 do not.
  • Driving in adverse weather – 69%
  • Distracted driving – 67%
  • Preventing accidents and collisions – 67%
  • Proper following distance – 65%
  • Drowsy and fatigued driving – 61%

"In today's challenging driving environment, it's essential to have a comprehensive fleet safety program that ensures qualified and attentive drivers,” said McGhiey. “Enforcing hands-free policies and mobile phone monitoring, along with leveraging technologies like fleet telematics, can significantly reduce risky and dangerous driving habits. And when drivers see their employers taking proactive steps to reduce accidents through technology, policies and training, they may feel more protected—and more likely to stay. Partnering with an agent and carrier who understand your operations and vehicle usage, and can offer a customized insurance package along with risk mitigation advice, is essential for success.”

For more resources and training solutions for commercial drivers, visit Nationwide’s Driver Safety page.

Methodology:
Edelman Data and Intelligence (DXI) conducted a national online survey of 400 commercial drivers* from March 5 to March 19, 2025. As a member in good standing with The Insights Association and ESOMAR, Edelman DXI conducts all research in accordance with local, national and international laws and in line with all Market Research Standards and Guidelines.

*Note: Commercial driver audience does not include long-haul trucking, tow trucks, app-based delivery drivers (e.g. DoorDash), or large corporate delivery drivers (FedEx, Amazon, UPS, etc.)