Brad Ekonen has built a career defined by relationship-building, leadership, and a genuine commitment to personal and professional growth. Early in his career, he challenged himself to step outside his comfort zone by attending networking events and meeting new people, despite the nerves that often came with those experiences. What began as a deliberate effort to grow soon became a passion for connecting with others, learning from different perspectives, and building meaningful relationships that have helped shape both his career and character.
Today, Brad serves as Commercial Lines Marketing Coordinator at Korotkin Insurance Group (KIG), where he works to support clients and colleagues through collaboration, strategic thinking, and a team-first mindset. A former football player at Kalamazoo College, Brad credits athletics with teaching him the values of teamwork, discipline, leadership, and accountability. Those lessons continue to guide his professional approach and his commitment to serving others.
PODCAST:
Aug. 5, 2026 ~ Discover how a lifelong passion for teamwork and leadership, shaped by years on the football field, helped Brad Ekonen build a career in marketing and relationship-building at Korotkin Insurance Group. In this Rising Stars conversation, Brad shares insights on servant leadership, professional networking, and the value of community involvement while helping connect and strengthen Southeast Michigan’s business community.
CONTINUED: A dedicated leader within the Detroit Economic Club, Brad has been a member since 2021 and has played an active role in advancing the organization’s mission. He has served on the Young Leaders Board for the past three years, contributes to the Programming Committee, and has helped shape the Young Leader Conference as Vice Chair of the Speaker Committee in 2025 and Chair of the Speaker Committee for the 2026 conference. Through these leadership roles, he has helped create opportunities for young professionals to learn, connect, and grow throughout Southeast Michigan.
Brad’s commitment to service extends well beyond the Detroit Economic Club. He serves on the board of the Risk Management Association (RMA) as Co-Chair of Young Professionals, helping foster leadership development within the industry. He also gives back to his alma mater as a mentor for Kalamazoo College football players interested in pursuing careers in business, offering guidance and encouragement to students as they navigate their own professional journeys. Additionally, he volunteered as a judge for the NeighborHUB Grant program through the Detroit Regional Chamber, supporting initiatives that strengthen local communities.
As he continues to grow both personally and professionally, Brad is hopeful for opportunities to connect with great people who challenge and inspire him. His achievements in business, leadership, mentorship, and community engagement make him a deserving recipient of recognition as a 2026 Detroit Economic Club Rising Star.
