Hartford Business Journal

www.HartfordBusiness.com • August 5, 2019 • Hartford Business Journal 19 40 UNDER FORTY 2019 B en Reder is driven by an entre- preneurial spirit. After gradu- ating from Trinity College he started a residential painting com- pany, which led to a 10-year career in construction and real estate. Looking for a new challenge, he migrated to the insurance world in 2012. He started The Reder Agency from scratch, and in the past five years, has grown his life insurance brokerage to cover a dozen major markets from coast to coast. What's been your biggest profes- sional accomplishment so far in your career? My biggest accomplishment — aside from helping clients on a daily basis — has been taking individuals who may have needed direction with their careers and giving them an oppor- tunity to work with my agency, learn about insurance, thrive as independent agents, and make a good living. How are you involved in the community? My two biggest commitments are to Capitol Squash (volunteering with the organization since 2016 and serving on the board of directors since 2017) and to the Crohn's and Colitis Founda- tion of America (running three half- marathons across the county with the team challenge program while raising money to find a cure). What do you like to do outside of work? I like to spend time with my fam- ily (wife, Sarah, and one-year-old son, Teddy), or attempt some physical activ- ity, be it playing squash, running, biking, golfing or fishing. In my 'wish it would happen more' time, I like to travel to Napa and drink red wine. Four reasons why you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty: • Successful entrepreneur who founded The Reder Agency, a life insurance brokerage, five years ago. • The agency has helped protect over 20,000 individuals and has provid- ed over $200 million in insurance benefits. • Has developed proprietary direct- mail program and social-media campaigns to reach agency's niche markets. • Serves on the Capitol Squash board of directors and volunteers men- toring and teaching the game of squash to Hartford youth. FUN FACT Founded my first company in 1988: Ben's Pencils (a hit with all the second graders). Ben Reder Owner/Broker, The Reder Agency Age: 38 No. of years with current company: 7 Town where I live: West Hartford Town where I work: West Hartford College: Trinity College Highest degree: Bachelor's degree in American studies Who is your favorite superhero? Silver Surfer PHOTOS | J. FIERECK PHOTOGRAPHY

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