Stay ahead in the RMI landscape with expert insights, practical tips, and innovative solutions designed to help you elevate your career and drive organizational success.
Angela Pilotti
New technologies, emerging risks, and evolving market dynamics are reshaping how risk management and insurance (RMI) professionals work and what skills matter most...
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The Impact of AI in Insurance: Transforming Claims, Underwriting, Risk Management, and More
By Adam Carmichael, CPCUThe entire risk management and insurance landscape is in the middle of a significant culture shift as artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes traditional workflows and decision-making processes. Not only is it changing business operations and efficiencies, but it’s also transforming the way professionals need to think. In fact, 77% percent of executives believe that generative AI will have a bigger impact on broader society in the next 3 to 5 years than any other emerging technology.
The adoption of AI integration into claims, underwriting, marketing, sales, and risk management is not a distant future—it’s happening today. The organizations that embrace AI in insurance functions and equip their teams with the right skills will gain a competitive edge through enhanced efficiency and predictive accuracy.
Read on to explore how AI is already impacting risk management and insurance functions, and how your organization can leverage its benefits!
There’s no arguing that AI has enabled faster and more accurate claims processing and resolutions. Virtual assistants like chatbots are improving claims transparency and handling customer inquiries faster, creating a more efficient claims experience. Behind the scenes, AI is also automating daily tasks such as fraud detection, document review, and claims triage that might otherwise go unnoticed. All of this is leading to increased customer service expectations, which can’t be met without continuous investments in these technologies.
However, the human element of claims management remains more essential than ever. While claims professionals can now invest less time in repetitive tasks, they instead need to know how to interpret AI outputs correctly to make informed decisions. This shift allows them to focus more time on complex claims that require human judgment and provide a personal touch customers still expect.
New AI-based tools, like telematics devices in vehicles and smart sensors in buildings, are analyzing IoT data to provide unprecedented granular insights that are reshaping the entire underwriting function. As a result, underwriters are transitioning from task-based work to strategic risk advisory functions. Explore what this looks like for commercial vs. personal lines underwriting processes:
Commercial Underwriting: AI and machine learning streamlines data collection, providing real-time risk insights and predictive models that change how underwriters approach their work. The most successful commercial underwriters are transitioning from manual evaluations to managing AI-driven risk analytics.
Personal Lines Underwriting: AI enables more personalized pricing, policy recommendations, and customer segmentation. Personal lines underwriters must learn to translate AI recommendations into clear explanations for customers as their focus shifts from routine assessments to exception handling and relationship management.
By leveraging the power of AI technology, marketers are more empowered than ever to take the guesswork out of their promotional strategies. Not only do predictive customer behavior models allow marketing teams to better anticipate customer needs and preferences, but other AI technology also enables hyper-focused segmentation and real-time campaign adjustments. All of this helps organizations send the right message to the right customers at the right time.
At the same time, marketers need to balance creativity with data literacy. This includes collaborating effectively with data scientists to interpret AI insights, applying analytics to creative strategy development, and understanding how to leverage AI tools for campaign optimization. By blending the art of marketing with the science of AI and data literacy, RMI professionals can speak the language of data to deliver better, measurable results.
AI tools are empowering sales teams to work smarter by prioritizing leads and helping them focus on high-value prospects. For example, generative AI is a great asset for crafting personalized proposals tailored to each client’s needs. Automated renewals reduce administrative burdens and improve retention rates. And AI-driven insights align insurance products with customer behavior and preferences.
The most successful sales professionals now combine relationship-building skills with AI literacy to better understand customer profiles and anticipate their needs. This powerful combination helps them create more meaningful and productive client relationships, while also improving the reputation of your organization.
The advancements AI has made in claims, underwriting, sales, and marketing are incredible, but the most transformative impact AI has had might be in risk assessments and management. This rapidly evolving technology is able to leverage real-time and historical data to predict risks. Wearable and IoT devices provide continuous data streams that allow for immediate risk detection and in real-time mitigation, while other AI-powered tools can predict weather-related losses and enable insurers to advise clients on preemptive measures.
AI technology has only accelerated the profound shift toward the Predict & Prevent® approach, which is focused on predicting and preventing losses before they occur, rather than responding after a loss. Now, risk management roles are evolving to focus on interpreting AI predictions and creating actionable strategies from those insights. For real-world examples of these transformations, tune into the Predict & Prevent® podcast, where RMI leaders share their experiences implementing AI-driven risk management.
AI isn't a future technology—it’s already transforming the RMI landscape today. And the most successful risk management and insurance companies are those embracing AI solutions in their day-to-day work and using it to enhance their capabilities.
By empowering your team to invest in AI skills development now, you can position your organization to be at the forefront of innovation. That's why The Institutes Knowledge Group offers standalone, introductory AI online courses that are designed specifically for various roles in risk management and insurance. In as little as one hour, your employees can build a solid foundation in AI literacy and learn how to leverage AI in their day-to-day work.
Take the next step in preparing your team for success in an AI-enhanced landscape today!
Adam Carmichael, CPCU, is President of The Institutes Knowledge Group. He leads the strategic development and delivery of courses and exams for risk management and insurance designation programs. He also oversees new course creation to ensure The Institutes’ education aligns with professional development needs. With more than 25 years in research and assessments, he brings deep expertise in professional development.
Risk Management and Insurance Goal Setting: A Practical Approach for 2026
By Angela Pilotti, CPCU, AReNew technologies, emerging risks, and evolving market dynamics are reshaping how risk management and insurance (RMI) professionals work and what skills matter most. In this environment, setting intentional professional development goals isn't optional. It's your competitive advantage.
The good news? Risk management and insurance goal setting doesn't require predicting the future or mapping out every career move. Instead, it's about identifying where growth will make the biggest impact for you personally, then taking realistic steps to get there. This approach keeps you focused, motivated, and adaptable, no matter what changes come your way.
Ready to build an RMI career that keeps pace with your field? Let's explore how to set meaningful professional development goals that actually stick.
Many professionals set ambitious resolutions in January, only to abandon them by February. The difference between goals that fade and goals that stick isn't ambition—it's strategy.
Career growth rarely happens all at once. Instead of aiming for a perfect outcome, focus on steady progress. Small steps, like completing a course or building confidence in a new skill, can add up over time. Celebrate these milestones. They matter.
A promotion sounds great, but here's what's more valuable: the skills that make you promotable. Skills-based goals help you improve your effectiveness today while preparing you for tomorrow's opportunities. They're also easier to measure and control.
Trying to do everything at once can lead to burnout. By narrowing your focus to a handful of meaningful goals, you create space to actually follow through. Consider setting SMART goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound.
Your specific goals should reflect what's actually changing in the risk management and insurance community. Understanding these shifts helps you make strategic choices about where to invest your learning time. Several trends are reshaping professional priorities right now:
Skill-based goal setting helps you stay adaptable and prepared, no matter how the landscape changes.
Setting a goal is one thing. Knowing where to start is another. Here are five common professional development goals for risk management professionals in 2026—and concrete pathways to achieve them:
If you are relatively new to RMI or just want to strengthen your core knowledge to feel more confident in your role, The Institutes Designations’ Associate in Insurance (AINS®) builds a strong foundation in insurance principles. Time commitment: 3–6 months.
Ready to use data more effectively in risk analysis? The Associate in Insurance Data Analytics® (AIDA™) teaches you to apply analytics across the insurance value chain without requiring a technical background. Time commitment: 6–9 months.
Want a high-level grasp of how AI is transforming risk management? Our AI online courses take as little as one hour each and introduce practical applications across underwriting, claims, marketing, and more.
The Associate in Cyber Risk Management™ (ACRM™) helps you identify, manage, and mitigate cyber risk while building organizational resilience. Time commitment: 6–9 months.
For long-term career growth, CPCU® is widely recognized as the leadership standard in risk management and insurance, helping you build the practical skills needed to lead the future. Time commitment: 18–24 months.
Goals are only as good as your follow-through. These strategies help you maintain momentum. Think of them as simple ways to turn good intentions into steady progress.
You don't need a perfect plan to move forward. Choose one meaningful goal aligned with where you want to grow in your RMI career, explore learning options that support it, and commit to steady progress.
Professional development isn't just about staying current—it's about building the skills and confidence to shape your career intentionally. Start now, stay focused, and trust that small, consistent steps lead to meaningful growth.
Ready to achieve your RMI goals? Explore all of our learning pathways today.
Angela Pilotti, CPCU, ARe, is Head of Education at The Institutes, where she leads the development of innovative learning resources and assessments for risk and insurance professionals. With leadership experience spanning reinsurance, underwriting, and content development, she brings deep expertise to risk and insurance education. .
The Retirement Wave: Filling Your Leadership Pipeline to Shape the Future of Insurance
By Eric CzerwinThe coming retirement wave is the single largest talent disruptor facing risk management and insurance (RMI) today. Half of the current insurance workforce will retire by 2035, leaving a gap of over 400,000 positions, according to a report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The RMI landscape has often adapted well to change, yet the next nine years represent both a challenge and a defining opportunity.
As we kick off 2026, learning and development (L&D) and talent management leaders can bring renewed momentum in facing the growing talent shortage. This is a chance to invest in your people, strengthen your leadership pipeline, and shape what the future of insurance and risk management will look like.
Explore how professionals in the Property & Casualty market believe the looming retirement wave could affect critical knowledge and leadership readiness, as well as present opportunities for growth and renewal across the RMI space.
What impact will the retirement wave have on the insurance landscape? The numbers tell a compelling story: 73% of RMI professionals believe the loss of institutional knowledge will be the most significant impact of the retirement wave, according to a survey conducted by The Institutes Enterprise Research team. This knowledge gap isn't limited to technical expertise: It extends to leadership skills, strategic decision-making, and mentorship. Left unaddressed, this loss of experience can quietly weaken your organization’s leadership pipeline. However, with the right professional development strategy, it can also open the door to developing and defining the next generation of leaders.
As seasoned professionals leave, insurers need to ensure key insights and processes don’t leave with them. One effective approach is building a structured knowledge-transfer system that includes:
By developing your leadership pipeline now, you create stability while preparing for what’s next.
Following that, technical roles that form the backbone of insurance operations are also at risk. 60% of surveyed RMI professionals expect shortages in underwriting, claims, and other technical skills. Additionally, 43% anticipate these roles will decline in the coming years. But why?
Many organizations expect to fill technical role gaps through AI and automation. As a result, those who learn how AI and machine learning is transforming insurer operations and can pair that knowledge with AI expertise will be in high demand. Still, the strongest organizations will focus on developing technically skilled talent who are also ready to step into leadership roles. This balanced approach supports both operational excellence and long-term leadership growth.
However, within this disruption lies opportunity. Organizations that invest in professional development now can emerge with a workforce that is more confident, more skilled, and more resilient than ever.
For L&D leaders who have been looking for a reason to expand their professional and leadership development programs, now is the time. Continuous learning is one of the most effective ways to address the talent shortage, as it allows professionals at all levels to grow their expertise and remain resilient. But it only works when programs are intentional, well-structured, and aligned with business goals. Consider supporting employees through clear career pathways that equip them with in-demand technical and leadership skills. This is where trusted, RMI-specific education becomes invaluable.
For example, The Institutes Knowledge Group offers a wide range of online courses and Institutes Designations designed to help build foundational, technical, and leadership skills to stay ahead of evolving RMI trends. Each program is backed by The Institutes’ more than 115 years of experience as a not-for-profit, committed to educating, elevating, and connecting those interested in risk management and insurance to create a more informed, resilient world.
As you strengthen internal talent development, your hiring practices should also evolve. 58% survey respondents expect entry-level positions to be filled from outside the current RMI job market. This shift will require organizations to move beyond traditional competency-and-experience-based recruiting models toward skills-based hiring approaches.
Not only will this expand the pool of potential candidates, it will also likely bring fresh perspectives into your organization. Those who haven’t worked in risk management and insurance before but have transferable soft skills—like customer service and critical thinking—will be able to grow their knowledge in entry-level positions and can bring innovative thinking to current business models. The key is creating onboarding and mentorship programs that effectively integrate these new hires.
Don’t forget: The retirement wave is already underway. But with the right strategy, it can unlock a new era of risk management and insurance that builds on the work previous generations have already started. Early- and mid-career professionals will find new opportunities to advance, while organizations can intentionally address the skills gap and invest in future leaders.
Want to dive deeper into the data behind these trends? Take a look at our benchmarking whitepaper for insights that can guide your strategic planning.
Eric Czerwin is Director of Sales for The Institutes Knowledge Group. With a background in risk management and underwriting, he bridges strategic insight with practical execution while fostering long-term relationships. His focus is on empowering carrier workforces with enhanced skills and insurance field knowledge through organizational learning and development initiatives.
Building Resilience: Risk Management Frameworks for Today’s Dynamic Environment
By Skills Edge TeamThe risk management and insurance (RMI) landscape is shifting rapidly, and many professionals find themselves caught between reacting to immediate threats and preparing for what comes next. The good news is that structured, forward-thinking risk management frameworks can change that equation, empowering you and your organization to predict and prevent exposures rather than being purely reactive.
Let's explore how this approach can help you navigate today’s complex challenges with clarity and confidence.
At its core, a risk management framework provides a structured approach for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks. Rather than reacting to isolated events, frameworks help RMI leaders evaluate interconnected exposures, prioritize decisions, and consistently manage risk over time.
This approach is essential because traditional, siloed responses are no longer sufficient. Organizations today face a growing mix of cyber threats, natural disasters, and human-caused catastrophes. According to the Insurance Information Institute, global insured losses from natural catastrophes reached $145 billion in 2024, while the potential total loss from cybercrime climbed to $16.6 billion, up from $12.5 billion just one year prior. These types of exposures require a unified, strategic approach.
When threats intersect across operational, financial, regulatory, and human areas, you need a process that accounts for all these layers simultaneously. A well-designed framework moves RMI teams from short-term fixes to long-term resilience by helping them address these four key points:
These capabilities are central to effective risk management strategies and essential for those seeking clarity on how to manage emerging risk in a dynamic environment.
Backed by more than 115 years of experience as a not-for-profit, The Institutes are committed to educating, elevating, and connecting people and ideas to create a more informed, resilient world—especially in today’s ever-changing risk landscape.
The development of The Institutes Designations’ Associate in Cyber Risk Management (ACRM™) and the Associate in Catastrophe Risk and Resiliency (ACRR™) over the past year reflects this ongoing commitment. Both programs address the distinct challenges posed by cyber threats and catastrophe risks while remaining grounded in core risk management principles.
While the risks may differ, the goal is the same: to equip RMI learners with frameworks that last. By focusing on structured decision-making, risk assessment, and resilience, these programs help learners apply skills confidently, regardless of how threats change.
Although cyber incidents can ripple across operations, reputation, compliance, and financial stability, some might still see them as purely technical issues that are handled by IT. In addition, 87% of decision makers say their company lacks adequate protection against cyber-attacks, according to a 2024 global survey by Munich Re.
ACRM helps to address this gap. Now past its one-year milestone, the designation focuses on building durable skills that remain relevant even as cyber threats evolve. It emphasizes enterprise-wide frameworks that help learners evaluate vulnerabilities, understand coverage options, and address the human behaviors that often contribute to cyber incidents.
As recent learners explain:
“Cyber risk is ever-evolving and continues to be one of the fastest-growing exposures for organizations of all sizes. The Institutes Designations’ Associate in Cyber Risk Management™ (ACRM™) provided a deeper understanding of how to identify, manage, and monitor the rapidly changing threat landscape that organizations face today.”
- Nick Talarico, ACRM, AAI
“ From managing and assessing cyber risks to understanding holistic risk governance, leveraging data, and building successful compliance strategies, this program provided insights that are valuable across industries. I would definitely recommend ACRM to anyone interested in learning more about cyber risk management and becoming a more cyber-resilient employee.”
- Heather MacIver, CPCU, ACRM, AIS
Students gain skills that support collaboration across IT, leadership, and risk functions, ultimately strengthening cyber resilience over time.
Catastrophe risks are also changing in scale and complexity. Natural disasters such as floods and wildfires increasingly intersect with human-caused risks like geopolitical instability and supply chain disruption. Managing these exposures requires a holistic view that goes beyond insurance placement alone.
The recently released ACRR program helps address this reality. ACRR applies risk management frameworks to both natural and human-caused catastrophes, helping learners anticipate impacts, evaluate financial consequences, and strengthen organizational and community resilience.
After completing ACRR, RMI professionals will be better prepared to:
Collectively, these skills support more informed strategic planning and risk management decisions as catastrophe risks grow more complex and interconnected.
Lastly, as cyber threats intensify and catastrophe exposures expand, one truth remains clear: structured risk management frameworks will remain central to effective decision-making. Education that combines evergreen principles with emerging insights ensures you and your team stay prepared, not surprised.
The risk landscape has changed, but so have the tools available to manage it. By embracing frameworks grounded in proven principles and designed for today's challenges, organizations can move forward with greater strategy and resilience.
Ready to strengthen your risk management approach? Try the free sample courses to see how ACRM and ACRR can help build your skills and prepare your community for emerging risks. The next step toward greater resilience starts today.
Our Skills Edge Team brings together insurance researchers and subject matter experts dedicated to advancing knowledge in risk management and insurance. Backed by more than 115 years of experience as a not-for-profit, the team at The Institutes is committed to educating, elevating, and connecting people and ideas to create a more informed, resilient world.
How to Streamline Insurance Continuing Education (CE) Across Your Organization: A Guide for Corporate Leaders
By Hunter FausnachtSupporting your team as they complete their continuing education (CE) requirements is key to a strong learning and development program. For most licensed professionals in risk management and insurance, finding time to fit CE into their busy schedules can be a challenge. However, one of the best ways to support your licensed team members is to make earning their CE as convenient and efficient as possible—and that starts with choosing the right insurance continuing education solution.
Insurance continuing education is a type of professional development that’s tailored to licensed insurance producers and adjusters. It's required for anyone who has a state-issued insurance license, as most need to renew their license every two years. This requirement ensures that licensed professionals complete approved courses and other programming to remain competent, informed, and compliant as the RMI landscape evolves.
While CE is often curated for license types like Property and Casualty and Life and Health, it also deepens licensed professionals’ understanding of risk management, regulatory changes, and more. A comprehensive CE solution should make it easy for individuals to access the right courses for their license type and complete all their CE requirements at a pace that works best for them.
When evaluating online insurance continuing education options for your licensed professionals, be sure you fully understand what you're looking for to ensure the solution you choose truly supports their growth and serves your organization. Here are some factors to consider when looking for the right CE solution for your organization:
On-demand CE courses provide the freedom to learn anywhere at any time, whether it’s between meetings, on their commute, or during dedicated focus time. Look for CE solutions that:
Flexibility like this can reduce stress and reinforce knowledge retention, helping your team gain practical understanding rather than just checking off a requirement.
Live webinars are a popular format for insurance continuing education that allows participants to ask questions and learn directly from experts. Since these webinars are interactive and presented in real-time, they often cover timely topics that help risk management and insurance professionals stay ahead. For organizations focused on engagement and collaboration, including live webinars in your CE offering can even foster a stronger learning culture.
A corporate insurance CE solution that eliminates or reduces administrative work frees organizations from time-consuming tasks like tracking usage or handling CE reporting. With simplified billing, seamless content access, and built-in state filing support, teams can focus on strategic priorities rather than paperwork. The result is a smoother user experience, more efficient compliance management, and lower overall administrative costs.
Cost transparency is key when choosing CE for insurance licenses. Even small, unexpected costs—like per-course fees or separate state reporting charges—can add up quickly across a team. Before committing to a provider, make sure you know exactly what’s included in the price. Transparent education solutions will list all fees upfront, with no surprise add-ons at checkout, to help you manage your budget more effectively.
Paying per course or webinar can severely limit your licensed team members’ access to the full range of CE courses, webinars, and other opportunities available to them. A more efficient model to consider is one that charges a fixed annual rate per licensed individual and gives them unlimited access to a library of courses and webinars. This flexibility empowers them to explore content that’s most relevant to their role and career goals, while learning from an array of timely and relevant information.
Most importantly, the CE solution you choose should come from a trusted name within risk management and insurance education. Your team deserves to complete their education requirements from experts who understand the complexities of insurance, compliance, and professional development.
All of the above reasons are why we recommend CEU Unlimited+. As an affiliate of The Institutes, CEU is supported by The Institutes’ 115+ years of expertise. CEU Unlimited+ provides access to over 150 on-demand courses, weekly webinars, all-inclusive pricing, and more. Simply put, it brings together everything your organization needs to help meet their CE requirements quickly and conveniently.
Learn more about CEU Unlimited+ and explore what a partnership opportunity could look like for your organization today!
Hunter Fausnacht is President of the Agent & Broker Group at The Institutes, leading strategy, broker engagement, and client-relationship initiatives. He partners with top insurance brokers to advance knowledge development solutions and serves as the primary liaison to the Insurance Broker Advisory Board.
What 4 Catastrophe Risk Trends are Shaping the Future of Risk Management and Insurance?
By Diane HanlonDisasters that used to be considered once-in-a-lifetime events are now happening every few years. In 2024 alone, U.S. natural catastrophes caused more than $112 billion in insured losses, according to the Insurance Information Institute. This escalating trend is challenging traditional catastrophe risk models and pushing insurers to rethink how they measure, model, and manage risk.
For learning and development (L&D) and talent management leaders, the growing frequency and severity of catastrophe risks also highlight an urgent need: helping those in risk management and insurance evolve their skills so they can recognize and address a wide range of threats. By understanding key catastrophe risk trends, you can position your organization to not only withstand the next global catastrophic risk but lead with confidence through it.
Let’s explore four key trends shaping how today’s leaders can adapt through data, technology, and education.
Across the globe, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other natural disasters are striking more often and with greater intensity. In the first half of 2025, global insured losses from natural catastrophes reached approximately $80 billion, nearly double the 10-year average from 2014-2024, according to a report from Swiss Re Institute. Total losses for the full year could reach $150 billion or more.
And it’s not only natural catastrophes. Human-caused catastrophes, like cyber incidents and geopolitical conflicts, are also growing more complex. They’re forcing organizations to expand their corporate risk management strategy by exploring lesser-known geopolitical, industrial, and mass violence risks. In fact, EY’s 2025 Global Insurance Outlook found that 98% of global insurance CEOs plan to alter investments due to geopolitical factors.
Simply put, each major catastrophe can affect underwriting margins, pressure reinsurance capacity, and increase the likelihood that insurance carriers will retreat from high-risk regions. Catastrophe risk assessment and management must be an ongoing priority.
Traditional catastrophe risk models can’t keep up with today’s evolving threats, so risk management and insurance professionals are using advanced technology to make smarter decisions:
To illustrate, the Predict & Prevent® podcast—which addresses some of the biggest risk challenges facing society today— recently released an episode that explores how Faura's technology identifies which homes are more likely to survive wildfires, hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and hail. Using quick homeowner self-assessments, Faura helps insurers replace costly inspections. Emerging technologies like these are critical to staying ahead of catastrophe risk.
As global catastrophic risks grow, insurers are finding new ways to share financial exposure. Traditionally, insurers relied on reinsurance when losses were too high. However, insurers are more often turning to alternative capital sources, including catastrophe bonds and insurance-linked securities (ILS), which connect financial markets directly to disaster events.
Parametric insurance is also more widely available than ever. Instead of waiting for a traditional loss assessment, payouts are triggered automatically when certain conditions—like wind speed or rainfall—reach a set level. This speeds up recovery and stabilizes finances after a major event.
Ultimately, this means that catastrophe risk has become a financial system challenge, not just an actuarial one. Understanding how insurance and capital markets work together will be key for staying resilient in the years ahead.
Forward-thinking RMI leaders are focusing more on proactive risk mitigation. Many companies now reward policyholders who take steps to reduce their risks by reinforcing buildings, installing advanced fire protection systems, and more. They may even provide policyholders with preventative technology up front, like sensors to monitor electrical issues or mitigate water damage from burst pipes or sprinklers. Likewise, organizations are also embracing scenario-based planning, using simulations to test their readiness for different disaster situations.
This shift is also impacting organizational culture. A resilient organization today ensures that every employee is well equipped for disaster readiness. L&D leaders play a crucial role by helping staff build the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively when catastrophe risk becomes reality.
The bottom line is that in the wake of growing global catastrophic risk, education and upskilling aren’t optional; they’re essential to close resilience and talent gaps. The Institutes Designations’ new Associate in Catastrophe Risk and Resiliency™ (ACRR™) helps RMI professionals meet this challenge and gain in-demand skills to manage natural and human-caused catastrophe risk.
Plus, ACRR is backed by The Institutes’ more than 115 years of experience as a not-for-profit, committed to educating, elevating, and connecting those interested in risk management and insurance to create a more informed, resilient world.
Empower your team to turn catastrophe risk into readiness with ACRR, the first of its kind that addresses catastrophes specifically within the RMI context.
Diane Hanlon is Head of Sales and Market Development at The Institutes, where she leads sales strategy and client partnerships. She works with Learning and Development leaders to design workforce learning pathways and serves on the Board of the Society of Insurance Trainers and Educators.
How to Prepare for The Institutes’ Final Testing Window of the Year
By Skills Edge TeamFrom October 15 through December 15, the final testing window of the year is your last chance to complete an Institutes Designation course and end the year with a strong sense of achievement in risk management and insurance (RMI). But it also arrives during one of the busiest times of the year, when projects wrap up, holidays approach, and travel plans may fill your schedule.
So, whether it’s your first course or the last one you need to earn a credential, success during this season requires a focused yet flexible approach. The tips below will help you create a practical plan, maintain momentum through the holidays, and show up confident on exam day.
First, pick a date within the window of October 15 to December 15, then plan backward from there. Working in reverse helps you visualize how much time you have for each step, such as reviewing study materials, taking practice exams, and scheduling a lighter review in the final week leading up to your exam.
Mark any major work deadlines, family gatherings, and travel dates on your calendar first. Then, fill the open spaces with study sessions. This method keeps your schedule realistic and prevents conflicts that could derail your preparation. Aim to complete your main studying a week or two before exam day, giving yourself time for final review and some flexibility if you need to retake an exam within the same testing window.
Next, let the people around you know about your exam goals well in advance. A quick conversation with your manager or family members can help protect your study hours and reduce stress when schedules inevitably fill up. When colleagues and loved ones understand your commitment to advancing your career, they're more likely to support your efforts during this busy season. Plus, they can help motivate you along the way!
According to research published by The Psychonomic Society in 2023, distributing your review across multiple sessions improves long-term retention of material compared to cramming study into one block. Consistency matters more than intensity. Aim for three short study sessions (20 to 30 minutes) and one longer review (60 to 90 minutes) each week. This steady rhythm keeps information fresh and helps you avoid last-minute cramming.
In addition, try to fit in reviewing study materials and studying habits to the routines you already have. Set goals to answer questions in the mobile app during your commute, discuss key concepts with colleagues over lunch, or tackle practice quizzes before bed. Some courses also include interactive exam practice questions and an AI Assignment Assistant to help weave studying into your schedule. When study time feels like part of your day instead of an extra task, it’s much easier to maintain.
Most importantly, reserve time for when you intend to complete the simulated exam, which reflects the style and structure of the actual exam questions. It’s an excellent opportunity to check your understanding, identify weak spots, and review course materials as necessary to build confidence on test day. Keep in mind that you can only take it once, so aim to complete it when you feel confident and ready after all assignments and quizzes.
Create a travel-ready study kit that includes flashcards, a notebook, and noise-canceling headphones to help you focus. This portable setup allows you to review during short breaks or while traveling. Even a few minutes of focused review while waiting at the airport or between family events can reinforce your learning and keep concepts fresh.
However, remember that rest plays a crucial role in memory retention and focus. Try to:
If stress starts to build, try a short breathing or mindfulness exercise before studying. Even a one-minute breathing exercise can boost energy and concentration, according to a 2024 article in Psychology Today.
The Institutes Designations’ exams are designed to measure how well you can apply key principles to professional risk management and insurance situations—not just how much you can memorize. Expect questions that reflect real-world scenarios you might encounter in the risk management and insurance landscape.
Focusing on the educational objectives in your RMI course materials can help you understand how central themes connect to on-the-job situations. Again, if your course includes a simulated exam, use it to test not only your knowledge but also get a feel for the environment and your thought process under the exam conditions.
Tip: If a challenging question appears, mark it and return to it later. Maintaining forward momentum helps you stay calm, confident, and in control throughout your exam.
In the days leading up to your exam, focus exclusively on light review and confidence-building activities. Skim chapter summaries, run through your flashcards one more time, and revisit key practice questions you've marked. This is the time to reinforce what you already know, not overload your mind with fresh concepts.
All Institutes Designation exams use virtual proctoring technology to ensure fairness for all students and maintain the integrity, value, and credibility of your achievements. Review the virtual exam proctoring guidelines and FAQs before exam day. Also, be sure to:
Taking care of these technical details in advance allows you to focus fully on demonstrating your knowledge during the exam.
This final testing window represents your chance to close out the year with pride and enter the new year with stronger skills in risk management and insurance. With a structured plan, flexible study habits, and a calm mindset, you can successfully balance the season's demands while taking the next step toward your designation. Your dedication during this busy season will help set you up for success in the year ahead, supported by The Institutes’ 115-year legacy of trust, purpose-driven education, and commitment to helping RMI professionals serve those in need.
For more study support, explore:
Our Skills Edge Team brings together insurance researchers and subject matter experts dedicated to advancing knowledge in risk management and insurance. Backed by more than 115 years of experience as a not-for-profit, the team at The Institutes is committed to educating, elevating, and connecting people and ideas to create a more informed, resilient world.
Is There a Competitive Advantage Through Education? How The Norfolk & Dedham Group Drives Continuing Professional Development
By Skills Edge TeamProfessional development and education are not nice-to-have perks anymore; they are a competitive advantage for you, your employees, and your organization at large. In fact, 70% of employees say learning improves their sense of connection to their organization. Organizations that invest in education will be able to future-proof their workforce and attract, prepare, and retain the next generation of risk management and insurance leaders.
We had the opportunity to speak with Joel P. Murray, CPCU, Board Chair, President, and CEO of The Norfolk & Dedham Group (N&D) as well as Michael J. Tufts, CPCU, Senior Vice President, People & Administration of N&D®. They shared how their extensive professional development efforts have been a competitive differentiator for their organization, how N&D leverages The Institutes Designations to drive career development pathways, and why their clients ultimately benefit from these initiatives.
N&D has a unique learning and development culture that ensures employees have the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in their current and future roles.
“Professional development is a strategic differentiator for us as we demonstrate to our employees we care about their future,” Murray commented. “Our partnership with The Institutes signals to candidates that we're serious about their growth. Internally, designation holders have an advantage over those who do not pursue [designations] as a result of their elevated subject matter expertise.”
This advantage comes in the form of streamlined paths to career advancement, as further explained by Murray:
“Our career development pathways are deeply embedded in our culture. We've designed structured progression models for underwriting, claims, and project management roles that emphasize continuous education, including CPCU® and other designations.”
In practice, Michael Tufts broke down what a career pathway might look like for a Commercial Lines Underwriter starting at N&D.
“When it comes to our talent practices, we’ve recently developed career pathways for our Commercial Lines Underwriters, from Day 1 through Year 7. There are two pathways: with CPCU and without CPCU. If employees earn their CPCU, they'll be able to go from an Associate Commercial Lines Underwriter, to a Commercial Lines Underwriter, to a senior role in four years. Without earning CPCU, it will take about 7 years. CPCU is so valuable from a technical knowledge standpoint that employees need a lot more on-the-job training and skill development to fill the knowledge gap.”
N&D’s professional development support extends far beyond promotion criteria, however. They cover the costs of employees’ course materials and even offer incentives for earning Institutes Designations.
“We pay for all the materials and exams employees need for every Institutes Designation,” said Tufts. “Physical books, online materials, their first exam attempt, everything. When they earn any designation, we award them $1,000. If they earn their CPCU we give them $3,500 and pay for them to attend the conferment conference.”
Thanks to their extensive training programs, N&D has been able to embrace knowledge and skills-based recruiting, which allows them to hire from a wider pool of candidates who may not have worked in risk management and insurance before, but have the transferable skills needed to grow their knowledge in entry-level positions.
As Tufts put it, “We’ve had to shift from a competency-and-experience-based recruiting model to a skills-based model. For an entry level job, like Auto Claims Examiner, we’re recruiting for skills. For example, somebody who has been a server in a restaurant and can communicate effectively with people, handle stress, and has good customer service skills will likely do well in that role. Those hospitality skills really lend themselves to what we’re looking for. Ultimately, that means we’re bringing a lot of new people into the company who have no domain knowledge in insurance. We created the learning journey to help address this gap.”
Next, once these new hires start, N&D quickly sets them on their learning journey.
“During an employee’s first year, 11-12 subject matter experts from within the company present a wide range of topics that are relevant to a mutual insurance company,” explained Tufts. “Two-hour sessions, once a month, over the course of a year. Alongside that, each employee will also be working toward their Associate in Insurance (AINS®) designation.
“By the end of the year, every new employee has achieved at least a baseline of domain knowledge of our industry, has earned AINS, and is ready to enter a specialized learning track. Then if they want to work towards their Associate in Claims (AIC™), they move onto track A. If they want to earn CPCU, they move onto track B. And so forth. We always try to leverage existing expertise and credit earned from The Institutes Designations across the organization.”
The Institutes Designations’ CPCU® is central to N&D’s professional development programs because it’s regarded as the leadership standard for risk management and insurance.
Murray stated, “At N&D, we view the CPCU designation as a cornerstone of professional excellence. Employees who earn their CPCU demonstrate not only technical mastery of property and casualty insurance but also a commitment to ethical standards and continuous learning. This translates into stronger underwriting decisions, better risk assessment, and improved profitability. They become subject matter experts and trusted resources for their teams, which elevates the entire organization.”
Understanding that earning one’s CPCU is a huge accomplishment, backed by years of hard work and dedication, N&D makes sure to recognize and celebrate their CPCUs. In addition to awarding completers $3,500 and paying for them to attend the conferment conference, they also post their accomplishments on social media and in the office.
“We have an entire wall in our office dedicated to the diplomas of all CPCUs in our organization," Tufts shared. “It really is a wall of honor for our employees—26 CPCUs in a company of 160. And we don't just recognize them on the wall. We recognize them during our annual town hall meeting, create a LinkedIn post celebrating them, and post their accomplishment around the office. It's a big deal and we want to acknowledge that.”
According to Murray, robust employee training and learning experiences provide N&D’s clients with an overall better experience on just about every front.
“Our mission is to provide financial security and peace of mind to our policyholders,” said Murray. “That starts with having knowledgeable, empowered employees. Through CPCU and other learning programs, our staff gain the technical expertise and business acumen needed to deliver exceptional service. Clients benefit from faster, more accurate underwriting, responsive claims handling, and personalized service. Our agents appreciate working with professionals who understand the nuances of coverage and risk. Ultimately, our investment in people translates into trust, loyalty, and long-term relationships with our agency partners, which serve as the foundation of everything we do.”
The bottom line: If you’re looking to build or revamp learning and development programs for your organization, The Institutes Knowledge Group can help! Reach out to our team at Sales@TheInstitutes.org for advice and best practices on building a culture of continuing professional development and lifelong learning.
Our Skills Edge Team brings together insurance researchers and subject matter experts dedicated to advancing knowledge in risk management and insurance. Backed by more than 115 years of experience as a not-for-profit, the team at The Institutes is committed to educating, elevating, and connecting people and ideas to create a more informed, resilient world.
The Institutes Launch a New Catastrophe Risk Designation as Extreme Weather Losses Triple
By Skills Edge TeamThe frequency of extreme weather events causing billion-dollar losses has more than tripled in the United States over the past five years, jumping from an average of seven events annually to 23. This dramatic escalation in catastrophe risk has prompted The Institutes Knowledge Group to develop a comprehensive new professional designation specifically focused on both natural and human-caused catastrophe risks and resilience.
Risk & Insurance, which is affiliated with The Institutes, recently spoke with Adam Carmichael, CPCU, the President of The Institutes Knowledge Group, about a new Institutes Designation. You can read the original article on the Risk & Insurance website now. The Institutes Designations’ Associate in Catastrophe Risk and Resiliency™ (ACRR™) addresses the urgent need for specialized catastrophe risk management expertise.
“The primary motivation for creating this designation was to address the growing and evolving threat of catastrophe risk and help both people and companies become more resilient in the face of those risks,” said Carmichael. “Catastrophes can result in physical and financial losses and often impact entire communities.”
The new Associate in Catastrophe Risk and Resiliency™ (ACRR™) designation, now available, represents one of the few programs in the risk management and insurance space comprehensively addressing both natural and human-caused catastrophe risks. The program was developed in response to clear demand, with The Institutes Knowledge Group’s advisory board providing immediate and positive confirmation that professional development in this area was critically needed.
Risk management and insurance faces unprecedented challenges from catastrophe risks that continue to evolve in both frequency and severity. Natural disasters have become more intense, while human-caused catastrophes like cyber-attacks have expanded in scope, creating intricate interdependencies that cause ripple effects across industries and communities.
“When you combine all the various catastrophes, this represents one of the largest risks the risk management and insurance sectors face, affecting a broad range of professionals across the field,” Carmichael said. The designation was specifically created to provide risk professionals with the skills needed to implement holistic risk mitigation and prevention strategies.
The program’s focus also extends beyond simply responding to catastrophes after they occur. “This designation was created to provide risk professionals with the skills needed to implement holistic risk mitigation strategies, strengthen resilience, and apply insurance and reinsurance solutions while looking beyond financial protection to predict and prevent potential losses,” Carmichael explained.
In developing the ACRR designation, The Institutes Knowledge Group employed a rigorous methodology drawing from multiple sources to ensure thoroughness and practical applicability. The development process began with comprehensive research into catastrophe risk, examining the various areas within this complex field.
“We pull from a variety of sources because what we’re trying to build is a holistic framework for managing both natural and human-caused risks,” Carmichael said. This research was then combined with input from subject matter experts who work directly in the risk management and insurance sectors, ensuring the program addresses real-world challenges that professionals face daily.
The goal throughout the development process was to design courses that help professionals build practical, applicable skills for their jobs. “These skills enable them to solve problems, develop strategies for handling complex risks, and ultimately work to mitigate, predict, and prevent catastrophes,” Carmichael noted.
The ACRR designation consists of four required courses that can be completed in six to nine months, with each individual course typically taking four to six weeks. The program includes:
All courses are delivered in a completely digital format, featuring scenario-based learning experiences that reflect real-world situations. “Each course has a related exam where participants can demonstrate application of the concepts covered, and these exams are also digital and can be taken anywhere,” Carmichael said. There is also a free sample course for those who want to experience the program format before enrolling.
The designation applies to a wide range of risk and insurance professionals, with particular relevance for those in specific roles. “Specifically, anyone who wants to better understand catastrophe risk and how to build resiliency would benefit, including risk managers, brokers who want to ensure their clients are protected against catastrophe risk, and underwriters who deal with this risk in their daily work,” Carmichael explained.
Professionals in the reinsurance sector should especially consider this designation, as catastrophe risk plays a critical role in that area. Additionally, those working in Insurtech could benefit from a better understanding of the risks that technology may be able to help predict and prevent.
The program equips professionals to build frameworks for assessing and managing risk that remain relevant even as catastrophe risks evolve and change over time. Participants learn to employ effective catastrophe risk management techniques and improve cross-organizational communication by raising awareness, fostering preparedness, better translating complex data into understandable information, and building a culture of vigilance.
“Anyone who cares about their organization’s bottom line should be interested in this,” Carmichael said, emphasizing the broad applicability of the skills developed through the program.
Looking ahead, the importance of education in catastrophe risk management cannot be overstated. “Catastrophe risk can be devastating. The more we understand these risks and are able to plan and build strategies to predict, prevent, and mitigate them, the more significant the difference we can make,” Carmichael said.
While some catastrophic events are inevitable, there are proactive measures that can be implemented to improve outcomes. “Education in this space is crucial because while some of these events are inevitable, there are proactive measures we can take. When we implement these measures in advance, it creates better outcomes for everyone involved,” Carmichael noted.
With more than 115 years of experience as a not-for-profit committed to educating, elevating, and connecting those interested in risk management and insurance, The Institutes have positioned this new designation to help create a more informed and resilient world in the face of growing catastrophe risks.
To learn how your organization can turn catastrophe risk into readiness, explore The Institutes Designations’ NEW Associate in Catastrophe Risk and Resiliency™ (ACRR™) today.
Our Skills Edge Team brings together insurance researchers and subject matter experts dedicated to advancing knowledge in risk management and insurance. Backed by more than 115 years of experience as a not-for-profit, the team at The Institutes is committed to educating, elevating, and connecting people and ideas to create a more informed, resilient world.
Lead the Next Chapter: Risk Management and Insurance Masterclasses for Evolving Leaders
By Adam Carmichael, CPCUThe risk management and insurance (RMI) landscape is transforming at a rapid pace. Experienced professionals are retiring at a high rate, AI is revolutionizing almost every function from underwriting to claims, and teams are becoming more global. If you've earned an Institutes Designation, you've already built a solid foundation, but keeping your skills sharp requires continuous growth.
That’s why we created new risk management and insurance Masterclasses: concise, skills-focused courses designed to help you lead with greater impact. In just 3-5 hours per course, you'll gain actionable insights you can apply immediately, plus a digital badge to showcase your commitment to excellence.
Ready to discover how these targeted learning experiences can accelerate your professional development? Let's explore why these skills matter and which Masterclass might be your perfect next step.
The risk management and insurance field is evolving. Shifts in workforce demographics and digital innovation are reshaping expectations for leaders, demanding stronger communication, data fluency, and strategic agility. This is predicted to have a significant impact on middle management roles.
What does this mean for you? Technical expertise alone is no longer enough. Today's employers seek RMI leaders who can:
Key Takeaway: Today’s leaders must evolve their skill sets to help organizations navigate employee turnover, technological transformation, and workforce globalization.
Each Masterclass addresses a critical skill gap in today's RMI community, delivering practical tools you can implement immediately.
Ideal for those preparing for increased roles or seeking to expand their influence in the risk management and insurance landscape, this course helps you identify your leadership strengths and gaps while building your ability to make sound decisions under pressure. You'll learn what inspires colleagues to follow your lead and how to become a steady, calming presence in your organization.
Designed for those driving digital transformation, this Masterclass breaks down the intersection of data analytics and AI technology. You'll gain the vocabulary to collaborate effectively with data scientists, understand how AI enhances everything from underwriting to customer experience, and discover practical applications for your specific RMI role.
Essential for anyone working with diverse teams within the insurance sector, this course explores how personality and cultural differences influence workplace communication. You'll master techniques for adjusting your messaging strategies, building cultural intelligence (CQ), and fostering inclusive collaboration that drives results.
For leaders building high-performing teams, this Masterclass develops your ability to set clear expectations, apply empathy in challenging work situations, and guide others toward their own solutions. You'll learn active listening techniques, and skills that build trust and accelerate team growth.
Consider which skill will have the biggest positive impact on your work right now.
Each course stands alone, so you can start anywhere and complete them in any order. With just a few hours of focused learning, you'll gain skills that differentiate you in the risk management and insurance marketplace, earn recognition through digital badges and email certificates, and demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement.
In conclusion, leadership in risk management and insurance isn't a destination. It's an ongoing journey of growth and adaptation. In a field experiencing ongoing changes, those who continuously sharpen their skills will thrive.
The Institutes' Masterclasses offer you a practical path forward, combining 115+ years of trusted expertise with modern, actionable learning designed for busy professionals. Whether you're looking to enhance your AI literacy, strengthen your cross-cultural communication, develop emerging talent, or step confidently into a leadership role, these courses deliver the focused development you need.
Explore our new Masterclasses today and take the next step in your professional RMI leadership journey. Your future self—and your organization—will thank you.
Adam Carmichael, CPCU, is President of The Institutes Knowledge Group. He leads the strategic development and delivery of courses and exams for risk management and insurance designation programs. He also oversees new course creation to ensure The Institutes’ education aligns with professional development needs. With more than 25 years in research and assessments, he brings deep expertise in professional development.
The Rising Cost of Catastrophe Risks: What Every RMI Professional Should Know
By Adam Carmichael, CPCUEvery September, National Preparedness Month serves as a reminder that readiness is essential in today’s risk landscape. For risk management and insurance (RMI) professionals, this year’s observance is especially timely. The physical and financial toll of catastrophes continues to rise due to events like hurricanes, wildfires, and geopolitical unrest.
In response to this rapidly growing and evolving threat, The Institutes Designations recently launched the new Associate in Catastrophe Risk and Resiliency™ (ACRR™). This program was developed to help professionals gain in-demand skills to identify exposures, implement holistic mitigation strategies, and strengthen the resiliency of organizations and communities.
Catastrophe risk refers to the potential for large-scale losses caused by natural events like hurricanes, floods, and wildfires or by human-caused disasters such as cyberattacks or political unrest. According to the Insurance Information Institute, an event is considered a catastrophe when insured losses exceed $25 million and affect many policyholders.
A catastrophe risk model is a tool insurers and risk managers use to estimate potential losses from catastrophic events. These models combine historical data, scientific research, and exposure information to help organizations plan for worst-case scenarios.
The cost of catastrophe risk is surging for several reasons:
According to the Insurance Information Institute, there are various key stats on catastrophic risks that make the urgency clear:
In summary, these numbers reflect more than insurance payouts. They represent lost homes, disrupted communities, and long-term business interruptions that strain organizations far beyond the initial disaster.
Insurance alone cannot absorb the impacts of today’s catastrophe risks. Coverage gaps and rising deductibles make it harder for organizations to rely solely on traditional transfer strategies.
At the same time, interdependencies are straining existing approaches to catastrophe risk management:
Ultimately, catastrophe risks are no longer isolated events; they create a complex web of challenges that can ripple across industries and communities.
Data and catastrophe risk models help RMI professionals, but they cannot completely eliminate the uncertainty these risks bring. Simply put: Preparedness now requires holistic, forward-looking strategies that extend beyond financial protection. Steps that strengthen catastrophe risk management include:
RMI professionals must adapt their skill sets as catastrophe risks continue to evolve. The Institutes Designations’ new Associate in Catastrophe Risk and Resiliency™ (ACRR™) provides a framework for managing both natural and human-caused catastrophe risks that will remain relevant even as threats change over time.
ACRR equips RMI professionals to:
Learn more about ACRR and how it can help you strengthen resiliency for organizations and communities. You can also try the free ACRR sample course to preview the content and determine if the program fits your professional goals.
Introducing the Assignment Assistant: Your AI-Powered Study Partner
By Adam Carmichael, CPCUStudying for a designation can be both rewarding and challenging. Many learners tell us they spend extra time searching for explanations, looking up examples, or re-reading tough concepts when studying their assignments.
That’s why we’re excited to introduce the Assignment Assistant—a new AI-powered tool built right into CPCU and AIC courses to help you study smarter, not harder.
The Assignment Assistant is an AI-driven study companion designed specifically for The Institutes’ designation courses. Unlike generic AI tools, it’s trained on our course materials, ensuring you get accurate, course-specific guidance aligned with your learning objectives.
If you select the course package that includes the Assignment Assistant, it’s available directly in your CPCU and AIC course dashboard and ready to use whenever you are.
The Assignment Assistant was designed to make your study journey more efficient. It’s not here to replace the effort you put into mastering your material—it’s here to make that effort more effective.
By removing barriers and saving you time, the tool helps you stay on track, boost your confidence, and get the most out of your learning experience.
If you already have this course package, accessing the Assignment Assistant is simple—just open it directly from your AIC or CPCU course dashboard. Give it a try on your next assignment and see how much time you can save.
Launch the Assignment Assistant Now
Are you currently a CPCU or AIC student, or looking to start either program? Learn more about this new, exciting tool and find out if it’s for you!
