In 2017, the IIRC continued building the talent pipeline as part of its mission. IIRC efforts have resulted in greater awareness among those most likely to benefit from opportunities within the industry. Here are the highlights… 

Renewing the IIRC Commitment

In April, Governor John Kasich stated, "We've got to put our foot on the gas. I know other states see our success, and they want it. So staying on the right track means keeping up the same energy that got us here and building on the ideas that we know work."

Governor Kasich followed up by reconvening Ohio's insurance executives. He urged them to continue their work to reach out more broadly to attract students and career seekers. Building great talent in the insurance industry is good for business and good for Ohio.

The University of Akron Launches the 10th RMI Program

Ohio's Director of Insurance Jillian Froment celebrated the launch and advised students to take advantage of the offering. She stated, "Put an RMI degree with your interests or major, and you'll get a great career." 

Learn more »

The Insurance Collegiate Challenge

The first statewide insurance competition for higher education students, the Insurance Collegiate Challenge hosted by the IIRC and Fundación MAPFRE, took place on September 30, 2017 at Ohio Dominican University. The team from the University of Akron took top honors.

Find out more »

Partnering on Pathways

Ohio Dominican University has partnered with IIRC member Motorists Insurance Group along with The Institutes and Canal Winchester High School (CWHS) to offer an insurance pathway program. The Risk Management Technician Pathway allows students to earn industry certifications and college credits.

As CWHS teacher Crystal Dortch puts it, "The pathway provides CWHS students with a unique, exclusive, and fully funded opportunity to propel their careers. Whether a student plans to work immediately after high school, attend college or join the military, the field of insurance provides enough flexibility to accommodate any and all of these pursuits, while providing income and advancement opportunities."

See the announcement »

In Memoriam

Sadly, we lost one of our tireless champions, Tim Miesse, who led the Insurance Studies program at Owens Community College. Tim exemplified the dedication of our education partners.

One of the last emails that the IIRC received from Tim, following a request was this:

"Yes, I always have time for you…"

Our education partners don't leave the office behind at 5 p.m. They are available to their students around the clock because they are wholly committed to their students' success.

Welcome New Members

Mennonite Mutual

MAPFRE Insurance

Thank you IIRC members for a great year!

What's Next

The IIRC continues its mission to promote rewarding careers in insurance. Look for events throughout the year, beginning with the IIRC collaboration with Gamma Iota Sigma at the 2018 Ohio Regional Conference on January 26, and The Pipeline on February 13.

We leave you with some thoughts from our IIRC member executives and partners on how they define the insurance industry today.

                                    Insurance is ...

The IIRC is funded by:

Celina Insurance Group

Central Mutual Insurance Company

The Cincinnati Insurance Company

Grange Insurance

Hylant Group

Liberty Mutual Insurance

MAPFRE Insurance

Mennonite Mutual

Molina Healthcare of Ohio

Motorists Insurance Group

Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company

Ohio Insurance Agents Association, Inc.

Ohio Mutual Insurance Group

State Auto Insurance Company of Ohio

Wayne Insurance Group

Westfield Insurance Company