Josh Cotner
Founder & Construction Insurance Expert
Helping contractors navigate insurance complexities with 20+ years of expertise, personal contracting experience, and unwavering 24/7 commitment to client success.
Founded CCA in 2005
Serving contractors nationwide
From Contractor to Insurance Authority
Josh Cotner's journey into insurance began not in a classroom, but on a rooftop. As a successful chimney installation contractor earning $2,500 per week, Josh experienced firsthand the challenges contractors face when a workplace injury changed everything. After falling through a skylight and navigating the complex workers' compensation system—even educating his own attorney and judge about the process—Josh discovered his true calling: protecting fellow contractors from insurance pitfalls.
Using his settlement to pivot careers, Josh entered the insurance industry with a mission. His unique perspective as a former contractor, combined with formal education from Arizona State University (BS in Finance) and CRIS certification from the Insurance Risk Management Institute, positioned him as the rare insurance professional who truly understands both sides of the industry.
In 2005, Josh founded Contractor's Choice Agency with a simple philosophy: be available when contractors need you. This commitment to 24/7 availability—even having "WORK 247" on his license plate—has helped thousands of contractors from $100K startups to $25M+ enterprises navigate insurance complexities across 48 states.
Education & Professional Credentials
Bachelor of Science in Finance
Arizona State University
Graduated Early 2000s
Comprehensive financial education providing deep understanding of risk management, business operations, and financial planning essential for contractor success.
CRIS Certification
Construction Risk & Insurance Specialist
Insurance Risk Management Institute (IRMI)
Elite certification demonstrating mastery of construction insurance, risk management, and industry-specific coverage requirements. Maintained through continuing education.
Continuing Education Commitment
Josh maintains his expertise through regular classes, exams, and industry training to stay current with evolving insurance regulations, construction law changes, and emerging risks across all 48 licensed states.
Professional Journey
Chimney Installation Contractor
Started career as a contractor, earning $2,500/week installing chimneys
Workplace Injury & Career Pivot
Fell through skylight, navigated complex workers' comp claim, used settlement to enter insurance industry
Insurance Industry Entry
Gained experience at ABC Supply, EZBind Inc, National General Insurance
Founded Contractor's Choice Agency
Established CCA to help contractors avoid insurance pitfalls based on firsthand experience
20+ Years of Growth
Expanded to 48 states, serving contractors from $100K to $25M+ in revenue
Areas of Expertise
Comprehensive insurance solutions and business services tailored for contractors of all sizes
Insurance Products
- General Liability Insurance
- Workers' Compensation
- Commercial Auto Insurance
- Builders Risk Insurance
- Umbrella/Excess Liability
- Pollution Liability
- Tool & Equipment Coverage
- Professional Liability
Specialized Markets
- Roofing Contractors
- Spray Foam Contractors
- General Contractors
- HVAC Contractors
- Electrical Contractors
- Plumbing Contractors
- Concrete & Masonry
- 50+ Specialty Trades
Business Services
- Credit Repair & Enhancement
- LLC/Corporation Formation
- Contractor Licensing (All States)
- Risk Transfer Strategies
- Contract Document Review
- Safety Program Development
- Performance Bonds
- Surety Bond Services
Nationwide Licensing Expertise
Licensed in 48 states with comprehensive knowledge of state-specific contractor requirements
State-Level Licensing Required
Local/Municipal Licensing Only
Expert Guidance: Josh navigates complex state and local requirements, ensuring contractors maintain proper licensing and compliance nationwide.
Industry Recognition & Media
"The Spray Foam Insurance Guru"
SprayFoam Magazine Feature
Featured as the go-to expert for spray foam contractors' insurance needs, demonstrating deep specialization in high-risk construction sectors.
Visit SprayFoamInsurance.com →Professional Network
500+ LinkedIn Connections
Extensive professional network spanning contractors, insurance professionals, and industry leaders across the United States.
Connect on LinkedIn →Media Mentions & Features
- August 2022: Profile feature by Quentin Super highlighting Josh's unique contractor-to-insurance-expert journey
- Ongoing: Regular contributor to contractor insurance education and risk management content
- Industry Authority: Recognized expert in construction insurance with specializations in roofing, spray foam, and high-risk trades
Personal Background
Arizona Roots
Military Family Heritage
Born in 1982 at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida, Josh moved to Sierra Vista, Arizona before he could walk. This military family background instilled discipline, dedication, and a service-first mentality that defines his approach to business today.
Personal Interests
Adventure & Growth
When not helping contractors 24/7, Josh pursues rock climbing and mountaineering, drawing inspiration from Everest and K2 literature. This passion for conquering challenges mirrors his approach to solving complex insurance problems for clients.
Family & Community
Josh resides in Chandler, Arizona with his wife Lori. Their partnership extends beyond family life, with Lori supporting the mission of Contractor's Choice Agency. Josh's commitment to the Arizona contractor community stems from deep local roots and genuine desire to see fellow contractors succeed.
Service Philosophy & Commitment
24/7 Availability
"WORK 247" isn't just a license plate—it's a promise. Josh answers calls personally, day or night, because construction doesn't stop at 5 PM.
Risk Management Partner
More than insurance sales—Josh serves as a business consultant and risk management advisor, protecting contractors from unseen pitfalls.
All Contractors Welcome
From $100K startups to $25M+ enterprises, Josh provides the same dedication and expertise to contractors at every stage of growth.
Why Contractors Choose Josh
Understands jobsite realities and business challenges firsthand
Fluent Spanish speaker serving diverse contractor markets
Successfully handles complex legal challenges and claims
Credit repair, business formation, and comprehensive consulting
Ready to Work with Josh?
Get expert insurance guidance from someone who's been in your boots
Email Direct
josh@contractorschoiceagency.comVisit Office
12220 E Riggs Rd
Chandler, AZ 85249
Latest Articles by Josh
Expert insights and guidance on contractor insurance and risk management
Complete Guide to Workers' Compensation
Essential coverage requirements, cost factors, and state-specific rules for contractors.
Read Article →Ghost Workers' Comp Policies Explained
Understanding exemption policies for sole proprietors and single-member LLCs.
Read Article →Arizona Contractor Insurance Guide
Complete requirements for Arizona contractors including ROC compliance and coverage needs.
Read Article →