Speakers

Graham Blackwell will share how Applied Systems is infusing AI across agent and carrier workflows to enable smarter decisions, faster execution, and a more unified, Intelligent Insurance Ecosystem.

Graham is the guy helping steer Applied Systems into its next chapter – and soon he'll be swapping his President title for CEO. A Cleveland native and die-hard sports fan, he's just as comfortable talking about business strategy as he is debating the latest game-day results. He's always up for a good IPA and will gladly make the case for why Pequod's serves the best pizza around.

Taylor Rhodes will discuss the current state of the industry and what most excites him about Applied Systems’ next chapter as he transitions Graham to the role of CEO. He'll also announce for the last time the recipients of the 2026 Pinnacle Award, Applied Systems' highest customer honor. 

Taylor has been the big boss man at Applied Systems for the past seven years, but he's officially passing the torch to Graham just before Applied Net. When he's not chasing powder in the mountains, he's enjoying a good IPA or hanging out with the people (and pets) he likes most. Taylor has three kids he kind of likes (two in the real world, one living his best college life) and an English Bulldog fur baby he loves. 

Brian Langerman will share how ACN helps you maximize your Applied Systems investment while connecting you to a community of peers for learning and networking that extends well beyond the tech. 

Brian (or BLang as we call him) is the head honcho for our user group. He lives in Chicago but, ironically, prefers the beach to the snow. Before Brian landed a career in the insurance and tech industry, he dreamed of becoming a sports agent. Even though that career didn’t pan out, Brian is still a big-time sports guy. He roots for the LA Dodgers and Chicago Bears. He enjoys cooking or attempting to (assuming a crockpot counts). He’s also quite the world traveler, having been to 47 out of 50 states, with Alaska being his next destination.

Anupam Gupta will discuss how Applied is pioneering new AI automation and bringing to life AI agents that work across your operations every day, handling the routine so you can focus on what matters most. 

Anupam heads up our Product helm, which makes him the tech wizard, if you will. He’s been in the tech industry for nearly 25 years – just don’t ask him to write code. Family is everything to Anupam. He has a wife and two kids who keep him grounded and motivated. He lives in rainy Seattle but, ironically, has a sunny disposition that’s hard to miss.

Danielle Cunningham will showcase innovations that are building the future of insurance operations – from AI-powered workflows to new levels of carrier connectivity.  

Danielle knows insurance from both sides of the table. Before joining Applied 16 years ago, she spent a decade and a half as an agent, so she understands the challenges agencies face firsthand. Today, she spends her time helping agencies work more efficiently and get more value from their technology. Known for turning complex topics into practical advice, Danielle enjoys connecting the possibilities of technology with the realities of running an insurance business. When she's not talking insurance, she's usually planning her next adventure in search of great food, local wine, and hidden gems across Italy.