The California Insurance Wholesalers Association (CIWA) has launched two key initiatives—CIWA Women and an Insurtech Committee—to enhance the excess and surplus lines insurance sector while driving industry innovation.
CIWA Women: Empowering Women in Insurance
CIWA Women has been established to advocate for the interests, growth, and advancement of women in the property and casualty insurance industry.
Led by Committee Chair Yana Connors, the inaugural committee includes prominent industry professionals: Sarah Sloan of Paragon Insurance Holdings, Elizabeth Mertel of Seneca Insurance Company, Grainne Bohan of UFG Specialty, Yiana Stavrakis of Monarch E&S, Dena Kaplan of The Insurance Journal, and Holly Valiquette of Pacific Inspections.
The committee aims to foster professional and personal development through an in-person event, with future initiatives potentially including virtual workshops, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs.
Insurtech Committee: Bridging Technology and Insurance
Recognizing the transformative role of technology in the property and casualty insurance landscape, CIWA has also introduced an Insurtech Committee. This group brings together Insurtech professionals, wholesalers, and carrier representatives to integrate emerging technological advancements with traditional insurance practices.
These initiatives align with CIWA’s commitment to leadership, professional development, and technological progress in the excess and surplus lines insurance market.
Expanding Opportunities for Students
The launch of these initiatives follows CIWA’s recent introduction of its internship program, designed to provide college students with hands-on experience in the evolving excess and surplus lines insurance sector.
Developed after CIWA’s annual meeting in January, the internship program offers students professional development, networking opportunities, and exposure to industry operations through events organized and sponsored by CIWA.
With these strategic initiatives, CIWA continues to drive innovation, inclusivity, and growth within the insurance industry.
