The Inland Marine Underwriters Association (IMUA) has unveiled the agenda for its 93rd Annual Meeting & Educational Symposium, themed 'Unlocking Opportunities.' Scheduled to address pressing issues in the inland marine industry, the event will also provide professional development resources for attendees.
IMUA President and CEO Kevin O'Brien highlighted the meeting's unique opening session and executive panel, which will feature perspectives from a broker, an underwriter, and a reinsurer. 'Their discussion on issues facing the inland marine industry should set the stage for what we expect to be among one of the most memorable meetings to date,' O'Brien said.
The agenda covers a diverse range of timely topics, including recent court rulings on builders risk insurance claims, transportation challenges like fictitious pickups and double-brokered loads, the impact of convective storms and climate change, and the intricacies of modular construction. These sessions aim to equip attendees with actionable insights to navigate an evolving landscape.
Recognizing the importance of nurturing industry talent, IMUA offers a 'Parallel Track' program tailored for newer and less experienced underwriting and claims professionals. This dedicated track covers foundational concepts in inland marine insurance, builders risk, contractors equipment, and transportation insurance, ensuring that the next generation of professionals is well-prepared.
IMUA Chairperson Tony Falcone, Region President at Intact Insurance, expressed pride in the association's accomplishments and commitment to enriching the member experience. 'Our end goal, of course, is to enrich and enhance the member experience. Part of our commitment to our membership is the acclaimed Annual Meeting, an event that is one of a kind in our niche,' Falcone stated.
The symposium's importance extends beyond education; it serves as a platform for industry leaders to collaborate on solutions to systemic challenges. For instance, the session on fictitious pickups and double-brokered loads addresses a growing problem in transportation insurance that costs the industry millions annually. Similarly, the discussion on convective storms and climate change underscores the need for updated risk models as weather patterns become more volatile.
By focusing on both foundational knowledge and cutting-edge issues, the IMUA Annual Meeting positions itself as a critical event for professionals seeking to stay ahead in the inland marine sector. The inclusion of a parallel track for newcomers further ensures that the industry's future workforce is equipped with the skills needed to address emerging risks.
