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Empowering Women and Innovating Technology: CIWA's New Initiatives

The California Insurance Wholesalers Association (CIWA) is taking significant steps to promote leadership and innovation within the insurance sector. Recently, CIWA announced the formation of two new committees: CIWA Women and the InsurTech Committee. Both initiatives aim to enhance the professional landscape and embrace technology to streamline operations in the property and casualty insurance industry.

CIWA Women: Empowering Female Leaders

One of the primary objectives of the CIWA Women initiative is to support and empower women in the insurance field. Under the guidance of Committee Chair Yana Connors, the committee has been established to cultivate a space for networking, mentorship, and professional growth. Members include influential leaders such as Sarah Sloan from Paragon Insurance Holdings and Elizabeth Mertel from Seneca Insurance Company.

Yana Connors expressed the committee’s vision, stating, “CIWA Women strives to provide a dedicated and supportive space within the California wholesale market to foster networking, mentorship, and professional growth.” The committee's activities will not only center on creating in-person events focused on personal and professional development but may also expand into virtual workshops, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities.

InsurTech Committee: Bridging Tradition and Technology

In conjunction with the CIWA Women initiative, the new InsurTech Committee has been formed in response to the increasing relevance of technology in the insurance landscape. This committee seeks to unite insurtech innovators with traditional wholesale and carrier insurance professionals, creating a dialogue that enhances operational efficiency and business practices.

Garett Kaneko, the chair of the InsurTech Committee, explained the intent behind this committee, highlighting the necessity of adapting to technological advancements: “Our industry is continuously adapting to new technological advancements. Through the InsurTech Committee, we're building a collaborative environment where industry professionals can navigate the steady stream of new systems and tools, finding innovative ways to enhance underwriting, distribution, and the customer experience.” This initiative aims to address challenges and opportunities posed by emerging technologies while supporting traditional systems surviving in a digital era.

Both CIWA initiatives reflect a commitment to advancing success in the excess and surplus insurance market through strategic leadership and innovation. As the property and casualty insurance field evolves, CIWA stands at the forefront of developing programs that embrace inclusivity and technological progress, ensuring a dynamic future for the industry.

About CIWA

Founded as a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the California Insurance Wholesalers Association focuses on the education, advocacy, and advancement of wholesale insurance professionals and their business counterparts. For more information, visit their official site at ciwa.net.

In summary, with the launch of CIWA Women and the InsurTech Committee, CIWA is not just fostering a progressive professional environment; it is pioneering efforts that recognize underrepresented voices and necessitate technology’s role in shaping the future of insurance. This significant step demonstrates CIWA's dedication to fostering a vibrant and equitable insurance industry focused on collective progress and innovation.