New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Rogers Corporation and the Wisdom Quotient: Experience, Technology, and Long-Term Financial Perspective

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Rogers Corporation Rogers Corporation typically provides health insurance coverage through its partnership with major insurers such as UnitedHealthcare and other leading healthcare providers. These collaborations allow the company to offer comprehensive health benefits to its employees, ensuring access to necessary medical services. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to rise significantly, driven by a combination of factors including expiring federal subsidies and soaring medical expenses. Some states could see ACA marketplace premiums increase by over 60%, resulting in potential out-of-pocket costs for consumers soaring by as much as 75%. With top insurers reporting record revenues and the loss of enhanced premium tax credits, many employees, including those at Rogers Corporation, may face challenging financial implications unless proactive strategies are implemented to mitigate these rising costs. Click here to learn more

“Rogers Corporation employees who have lived through decades of economic cycles and technological change often bring valuable perspective to retirement planning. Combining long-term experience with thoughtful planning can help individuals evaluate financial decisions with greater context as they approach retirement.” — Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

“Rogers Corporation employees who have experienced multiple economic cycles and technological transformations often develop a broader perspective on long-term financial decisions. Applying that experience to retirement planning can help individuals better evaluate how changing economic conditions may influence their long-term goals.” — Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

(1) how Baby Boomers and early Generation X experienced major geopolitical and economic events,

(2) how technology shifts and market cycles have influenced the modern economy, and

(3) how research on experience and the rise of artificial intelligence connect to long-term decision-making and retirement planning.

A Generation Formed During Major Historical Shifts

Baby Boomers, or those born between 1946 and 1964, as well as those born soon after (early Generation X), have experienced major changes in geopolitics, the economy, and technology over their lifetimes. Many professionals working across industries—including Rogers Corporation employees—belong to generations that have witnessed these transformations firsthand.

Over recent decades, this generation has seen the shift from a largely analog society to one increasingly defined by digital technologies and sophisticated computing. Professionals in large global companies such as Rogers Corporation experienced the rise of personal computing, the expansion of the internet, and the early stages of artificial intelligence applications that now influence many sectors of the global economy. These technological shifts reshaped how organizations analyze data, communicate, and make strategic decisions.

Because this generation has lived through multiple cycles of technological change and economic volatility, their professional experience often includes first-hand exposure to major global events and financial disruptions that helped shape modern economic systems. Employees working across industries, including those at Rogers Corporation, often bring decades of experience navigating these cycles.

Historical Occurrences That Influenced Political and Economic Understanding

One of the defining geopolitical events during the early adulthood of this generation was the Vietnam War, which lasted from 1955 to 1975. Although the largest U.S. military involvement occurred between 1965 and 1973, the conflict shaped global politics and economic conditions during that period. Many individuals who later built long careers—including professionals who would eventually work in companies such as Rogers Corporation—came of age during this era of geopolitical tension.

The world also experienced major geopolitical transformation later in the century. The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked the end of the Cold War and a fundamental shift in global political and economic systems. Historians widely consider the fall of the Soviet Union one of the most consequential geopolitical events of the late twentieth century.

These global developments coincided with changes in financial systems and economic policies across many nations, creating conditions that influenced global markets, industries, and multinational companies such as Rogers Corporation.

Late 20th-Century Economic Volatility

The United States experienced a period of significant inflation and rising interest rates during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Under Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker, the Federal Funds Rate approached 20% in 1980–1981 as the Federal Reserve pursued aggressive policies to combat inflation. These economic conditions influenced borrowing costs and financial decision-making across many industries.

Mortgage interest rates rose dramatically during that time. Freddie Mac data shows that 30-year mortgage rates exceeded 18% in 1981, ¹ making borrowing significantly more expensive than in earlier decades.

The financial industry also faced instability during the savings and loan crisis of the 1980s. Historical reports from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the U.S. Government Accountability Office estimate that the crisis ultimately cost approximately $160 billion, with roughly $124–132 billion paid by U.S. taxpayers. ²

These economic circumstances demonstrated how changes in interest rates and financial regulations can significantly affect financial institutions and the broader economy, lessons that remain relevant for professionals across sectors, including those working at Rogers Corporation.

Market Cycles and Technological Transformation

Technological innovation has also driven major economic cycles. The dot-com crash of 2000–2001 followed a period of rapid investment and growth in internet-based companies. When many firms failed to generate sustainable profits, stock prices in the technology sector declined sharply.

Another major economic event occurred during the global financial crisis of 2008. According to the Financial Crisis Inquiry Commission and institutions such as the International Monetary Fund, the crisis resulted from a combination of risky financial instruments, excessive leverage, and instability within housing markets. Economic events like these affected global markets and industries across the world. In fact, Federal Reserve data indicates that U.S. household net worth declined by approximately $13 trillion between 2007 and 2009. ³

The 21st Century’s Economic Shocks

The early 21st century has also had its fair share of major geopolitical and economic disruptions. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 created widespread economic and social consequences, influencing international relations, government policies, and global market behavior.

More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a sharp global economic downturn. During the early phase of the pandemic, the S&P 500 stock index declined by nearly 34% between February and March of 2020, ⁴ reflecting widespread financial market uncertainty.

Events like these illustrate how global crises can significantly influence financial markets, industries, and economic systems.

Continued Change in the Age of AI

Most recently, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) systems is once again shifting economic and financial realities. As AI is integrated into corporate environments, it is helping to drive new efficiencies. At the same time, it is poised to vastly alter the workplace of the future in ways that are not yet clear.

Despite the uncertainty, people who have navigated major global shifts over several decades may be well-placed to weather these changes—not only in terms of emotional preparedness, but in terms of financial preparedness as well.

Long-Term Financial Perspective and Retirement Planning

Experiencing multiple economic cycles—including periods of high interest rates, financial crises, and market volatility—can shape perspectives on financial planning and retirement readiness. Individuals who have worked through decades of economic change, including professionals at Rogers Corporation, often consider a wide range of long-term financial factors.

When preparing for retirement, individuals frequently evaluate elements such as long-term market cycles, changes in interest rates, recessions and economic disruptions, and the volatility of financial markets.

Understanding how these factors have historically affected economic systems can help individuals evaluate long-term financial strategies.

For those seeking guidance on retirement preparation, The Retirement Group provides educational resources and planning support. Rogers Corporation employees who would like to speak with a specialist about retirement planning strategies can contact The Retirement Group at (800) 900-5867.

Conclusion

Over the past several decades, global economic systems have been shaped by major geopolitical events, technological innovation, and financial disruptions. Events such as the Vietnam War, the fall of the Soviet Union, the high-inflation period of the early 1980s, the dot-com crash, the 2008 financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrate how economic conditions evolve over time. Advancements in artificial intelligence are also changing how organizations analyze information and make decisions. Professionals across industries—including those working at Rogers Corporation—have navigated many of these transitions during their careers.

For individuals preparing for retirement in an evolving economic environment, understanding historical economic trends and maintaining thoughtful financial planning strategies remain important considerations.

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Sources:

1. Freddie Mac Economic and Housing Research. Insight: Mortgage Rates Through the Years . Freddie Mac, July 2017, p. 3. https://www.freddiemac.com/fmac-resources/research/pdf/July%20Insight%2007%2019%2017.pdf.

2. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. History of the Eighties—Lessons for the Future: An Examination of the Banking Crises of the 1980s and Early 1990s . FDIC, 1997, p. 169. https://www.fdic.gov/resources/publications/history-eighties/volume-1/history-80s-volume-1-part1-04.pdf.

3. Bertaut, Carol, and Ralph Tryon. U.S. Household Wealth and the Global Financial Crisis . Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Sept. 2013, p. 3. https://www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/ifdp/2013/1088/ifdp1088.pdf.

4. CNBC. ' Here's a recap of the March 23, 2020 market lows ,' by Jim Cramer and David Faber. Mar. 23, 2021.

What type of retirement plan does Rogers Corporation offer to its employees?

Rogers Corporation offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can employees of Rogers Corporation enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of Rogers Corporation can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment form available through the HR department or the company's benefits portal.

Does Rogers Corporation match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Rogers Corporation offers a matching contribution to employee 401(k) contributions, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Rogers Corporation 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Rogers Corporation 401(k) plan is in accordance with IRS guidelines, which may change annually.

When can employees of Rogers Corporation start contributing to their 401(k) plan?

Employees of Rogers Corporation can start contributing to their 401(k) plan after completing their eligibility period, which is typically outlined in the employee handbook.

Are there any fees associated with the Rogers Corporation 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the Rogers Corporation 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

What investment options are available in the Rogers Corporation 401(k) plan?

The Rogers Corporation 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) savings at Rogers Corporation?

Yes, employees of Rogers Corporation may be eligible to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plans terms and conditions.

What happens to my Rogers Corporation 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave Rogers Corporation, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Rogers Corporation plan if allowed.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the Rogers Corporation 401(k) plan?

Employees of Rogers Corporation can change their contribution amounts during designated enrollment periods or as specified in the plan guidelines.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Rogers Corporation offers a traditional defined benefit pension plan, providing retirement income based on years of service and final average pay. This plan has been frozen, meaning that no new benefit accruals are added based on service or compensation beyond a certain date. Benefits accumulated under the plan are primarily based on a "flat dollar" amount per year of service. Additionally, the company provides a 401(k) plan with company matching contributions to support employees' retirement savings. Employees can access tools and resources online to manage their pension benefits.

Layoffs and Restructuring: Rogers Corporation announced it will lay off approximately 700 employees as part of a restructuring plan to improve operational efficiency. Strategic Focus: The companyHere is a master table summarizing recent news about restructuring, layoffs, company benefit changes, company pension, and 401k changes for the specified companies. This information is crucial due to the current economic, investment, tax, and political environment.

Rogers Corporation offers RSUs that vest over time, providing shares to employees upon vesting. Stock options are also part of their compensation, allowing employees to purchase shares at a fixed price.

Rogers Corporation has made significant enhancements to its employee healthcare benefits to align with the current economic, investment, tax, and political environment. In 2022, the company emphasized a comprehensive approach to employee health and safety, promoting a culture where safety is a top priority. This initiative includes structured environmental, health, and safety (EHS) risk management for new installations and processes, ensuring all equipment and procedures undergo thorough EHS reviews before implementation. These measures are part of Rogers' broader strategy to reduce injury rates and foster a safer workplace environment. In 2023, Rogers continued to build on these efforts by introducing additional health and wellness programs. The company expanded access to preventive healthcare services and mental health support, aiming to provide comprehensive support for employees' physical and emotional well-being. These programs include stress management resources, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and various wellness initiatives. By investing in these robust healthcare benefits, Rogers aims to attract and retain top talent, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth amid economic uncertainties. These initiatives reflect Rogers' dedication to creating a supportive and healthy work environment, which is crucial for maintaining productivity and morale in a competitive market.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Rogers Corporation at 2225 w chandler blvd Chandler, AZ 85224; or by calling them at 480-917-6000.

https://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/pension-plan-2022.pdf - Page 5 https://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/pension-plan-2023.pdf - Page 12 https://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/pension-plan-2024.pdf - Page 15 https://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/401k-plan-2022.pdf - Page 8 https://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/401k-plan-2023.pdf - Page 22 https://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/401k-plan-2024.pdf - Page 28 https://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/rsu-plan-2022.pdf - Page 20 https://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/rsu-plan-2023.pdf - Page 14 https://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/rsu-plan-2024.pdf - Page 17 https://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/healthcare-plan-2022.pdf - Page 23