Rathbun Insurance was proud to be represented by our Chief Operating Officer, Laura Stoken, at this year’s Michigan Rosie the Riveter Day celebration, held at the Capital Region International Airport in Lansing. The event was a moving tribute to the legacy of Rosie the Riveter—honoring the women who stepped up during World War II and those who continue to lead and inspire in today’s workforce.
As a local employer, female business owner, and Board member of the Capital Area Michigan Works! Workforce Development Board, Laura was honored to join to celebrate the grit, determination, and resilience of women in the workforce—past, present, and future.
Speaker after speaker reminded us that the spirit of Rosie lives on—in factory floors, boardrooms, classrooms,
and everywhere women are breaking barriers and building our future. From riveting wartime aircraft to shaping the modern manufacturing industry, the legacy of Michigan’s Rosies is still felt today.
A highlight of the afternoon included special Rosie Awards presented by ALRO Steel, where Laura’s husband Jason, General Manager of Alro Steel
Lansing, proudly took part in recognizing outstanding contributions by women in the manufacturing space. It was a true family affair, as Laura and Jason brought along their children, Brennan and Savannah (pictured), to witness this powerful celebration and learn more about the contributions of women throughout history.
Organized by a collaborative of powerhouse organizations—including the Capital Area Manufacturing Council, Jackson Area Manufacturers Association, Great Lakes Bay Manufacturers Association, Michigan Manufacturers Association, and Michigan Rosies—the event served as a vibrant, multigenerational celebration of women’s impact. From inspiring presentations to interactive activities, Michigan Rosie the Riveter Day was designed to engage everyone from children to retirees, underscoring the enduring impact of Rosie’s legacy.
As shared in the event’s press release:
“During World War II, over 200,000 Michigan women joined the workforce, building bombers, tanks and munitions. They stepped into traditionally male-dominated roles in factories, shipyards and agriculture, proving their determination and grit. Their influence persists today in workshops, factories and elementary school STEM projects we see on a daily basis.”
At Rathbun Insurance, we are proud to support initiatives that celebrate trailblazers and inspire future generations. We stand behind the mission to preserve and amplify the stories of women who’ve paved the way—and those who continue to rise.
Being there matters most.
