Celebrating Ing & McKee Insurance’s Rich History in Alberta
February 14, 2024
Ing & McKee Insurance has a deep-rooted history that intertwines with the growth and development of Red Deer, Alberta. From its humble beginnings to becoming a prominent insurance brokerage, the journey of Ing & McKee Insurance is a testament to the enduring strength of the community.
The Foundation
The story of Ing & McKee Insurance traces back to the 1920s when Mr. Botterill laid the foundation for what would eventually evolve into the renowned insurance brokerage. Post-World War II, Mr. McKee joined forces with Mr. Botterill, marking a significant collaboration that would shape the company’s future.
Transformation and Growth
The 1950s saw the entry of Ken Ing, which led to the company’s transformation into K. Ing Insurance Associates. Subsequently, the merger of K. Ing Insurance Associates and Botterill McKee Cunningham Real Estate and Insurance gave birth to Ing & McKee Insurance in 1966, marking a pivotal moment in the agency’s history. This historic event also saw the agency open for business in downtown Red Deer, solidifying its presence within the community.
In 1974, Tom Skinner joined Ken Ing at Ing & McKee Insurance, marking the beginning of a partnership that would again shape the agency’s future. Ken Ing’s successful 32-year tenure concluded with his retirement in 1990. In 2007, Tom Skinner retired after 33 years, signifying a transition to a new era for Ing & McKee Insurance. Then, in 2016, ownership and operation passed to Brad Romans as managing partner and president, Jeff Skinner (Tom Skinner’s son), and Jonathan Wenger, accompanied by an expanded team of over 55 employees province-wide. These pivotal moments reflect the agency’s legacy of enduring leadership and commitment to growth. The acquisition of Adanac Insurance Services in 2016 enriched Ing & McKee Insurance, leading to an integrated team at the Head Office location in Red Deer.
In 2019, Ing & McKee Insurance witnessed further evolution as Brad Romans, Jeff Skinner, Jonathan Wenger, Clayton Dexter, Scott Romans, and Kevin McFarlane became partners, leading a team of over 70 employees province-wide. The agency made a significant move in 2020, relocating its Head Office to new premises at 6000 – 20 Sharpe Avenue in Red Deer on February 10, coinciding with Kevin Hallet’s appointment as a managing partner in November 2020. In 2021, Jonathan Wenger assumed the role of president and managing partner, while Jeanette Laidler also became a managing partner, signifying a key leadership transition within the agency.
Alliances and integrations, such as the union with Hunley Insurance in Rocky Mountain House and Caroline and the integration of the Blackfalds location into the Red Deer Head office, further strengthened the agency’s operational focus and extended its reach.
Embracing the Future
On February 10th, 2024, Ing & McKee Insurance proudly celebrates four years at its Head Office in Red Deer; the brokerage stands tall with 113 dedicated employees and five locations in Alberta, embodying its commitment to the community it calls home.
It all began on January 1, 1966, when Ing & McKee established their name as Ing & McKee Insurance, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey and now celebrating over fifty years of dedicated service and leadership excellence.
The celebration of Ing & McKee Insurance’s rich history is a testament to the agency’s continued growth and steadfast commitment to its community and clients. As Ing & McKee Insurance continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains constant: dedication to their clients and the community they call home.