Eric Hansen Re-Elected as 2025 Chair of California Workers' Compensation Institute

A Commitment to Workers’ Compensation

On May 16, 2025, Eric M. Hansen, Senior Vice President of Preferred Employers Insurance, a Berkley company, was officially re-elected as the Chair of the California Workers’ Compensation Institute (CWCI) Board of Directors. This re-election highlights his longstanding dedication to refining the state's workers' compensation system and ensuring better outcomes for employers and injured workers alike.

Mr. Hansen comes equipped with over thirty years of expertise in the workers' compensation insurance arena, especially in underwriting practices. Throughout his career, he has championed the importance of well-developed risk assessment strategies, pricing models, and underwriting standards, all of which are essential for creating a safe and efficient workers’ compensation market in California.

As Chair of CWCI, Mr. Hansen plays a critical role in enhancing the research, education, and representation within California’s workers' compensation system. His innovative leadership fosters a system that not only adheres to regulatory standards but also recognizes the needs of all stakeholders, including employers, employees, and insurers.

Since his first election to the CWCI Board in 2014, he has made significant contributions alongside his peers. His influence was particularly notable when he took the role of Chair in 2024, where he swiftly established himself as a forward-thinking leader committed to collaboration and improvement.

Focus on Market Dynamics

In his capacity as SVP of Underwriting, Hansen is primarily focused on stabilizing the California workers’ compensation marketplace. By leveraging data analytics and applying quantitative strategies, he ensures that pricing models reflect fair and competitive rates while maintaining the standards necessary for compliance and care delivery.

Hansen’s strategies take into account the changing landscape of workers' compensation, addressing emerging challenges and adapting to feedback from industry stakeholders. This proactive approach aids in creating an environment conducive to both injury recovery and the fiscal responsibilities of employers.

When addressing industry changes, he has emphasized the importance of innovation. For example, integrating technological advancements such as artificial intelligence within underwriting processes enhances accuracy in risk assessments, thus ensuring that the benefits accorded to injured workers meet their needs effectively.

Collaborative Efforts Toward Improvement

Hansen's journey at CWCI has not been singular but rather a collaboration with other professionals who share the common goal of enhancing California’s workers' compensation system. His tenure has seen the introduction of several educational initiatives aimed at increasing awareness about workers' rights and responsibilities among both employers and workers. This not only aims to simplify the claims process but also fosters a culture of transparency in the industry.

In addition to educational reforms, Hansen has actively supported the integration of best practices through research. Under his leadership, CWCI continues to explore ways to leverage new findings in occupational health to inform policy and improve care standards.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As Eric Hansen prepares for his second term as Chair, he expresses optimism about building on the positive changes already set in motion. The upcoming year will be dedicated to further enhancement of California’s workers’ compensation framework, ensuring that it remains responsive to the evolving needs of both the workforce and the employers who support them.

The commitment demonstrated by Hansen exemplifies the importance of strong leadership in navigating complex issues that affect workers’ compensation. With a focus on continuous improvement, engagement with stakeholders, and a willingness to embrace change, his re-election ensures that California's workers' compensation system will not only serve its current constituents but will also be prepared for future challenges and opportunities.

Preferred Employers Insurance, as a leading provider of workers' compensation insurance in California, is well-positioned to continue its mission under Hansen's advocacy. With an emphasis on care, compliance, and continuous enhancement of service quality, Preferred Employers stands firm on its commitment to the injured workers of California, ensuring they receive the gold standard of care.

For more information about Preferred Employers Insurance or the California Workers' Compensation Institute, visit www.peiwc.com and learn how they are transforming the landscape of workers' compensation insurance in the state.