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