What drives outcomes in surety isn’t just underwriting or claims handling, it’s the alignment of stakeholders across the project lifecycle. From contractors and sureties to lenders and advisors, today’s environment demands a broader, more integrated perspective.
That perspective will be front and center at the ABA 2026 TIPS FSLC Surety Spring Conference, taking place May 13–15, 2026 at Hilton Sedona Resort in Sedona, AZ.
The conference will explore the evolving landscape of surety through a series of expert-led sessions and discussions. Attendees will gain insight into how claim handling influences the business of surety, how emerging trends in construction and indemnity are reshaping risk allocation, and how collaboration across stakeholders impacts outcomes.
On Thursday, May 14, Vertex Chairman of the Board Bill McConnell, PhD, MSCE, JD, MBA, PE will participate in a panel discussion featuring leading industry voices on the future of surety.
Vertex will participate as an Emerald Sponsor, supporting the conference program and opportunities for meaningful industry engagement throughout the event. The agenda is designed to move beyond technical concepts, offering a more holistic view of the surety industry—from unique bond structures and intercreditor relationships to proactive risk mitigation strategies. The program emphasizes practical, forward-looking insight that reflects the realities of today’s projects and disputes.
Meet the Vertex Team
Vertex attendees will include:
- Chairman of the Board Bill McConnell, PhD, MSCE, JD, MBA, PE
- Senior Managing Director and Practice Area Lead Diana Minchella
- Surety Senior Managing Director Frank Benway
- Surety Senior Managing Director Nick Deeley
- Surety Senior Director Jonathan Hahn
- Surety Senior Managing Consultant Tatum Rhyne
They will engage with industry professionals across the conference, contributing perspectives on surety claims, dispute resolution, and risk management while strengthening connections within the surety and legal communities.
Through participation in events such as the ABA Surety Spring Conference, Vertex continues to support informed dialogue and contribute to the advancement of surety practices across the industry.
For additional information about the event, please visit: https://events.americanbar.org/event/a4d89970-d715-4c54-a57a-cbe5e6b7f399/summary
To learn more about Vertex’s Technical Claims and Disputes and Surety Claims Consulting services or to speak with an expert, call 888.298.5162 or submit an inquiry here.
