Malvern, PA – September 27, 2025 – In an era where emerging risks like cyber threats, climate change, and artificial intelligence are reshaping the global landscape, The Institutes – formerly known as the Insurance Institute of America (IIA) – continues to stand as a beacon of excellence in professional education and certification for the insurance and risk management industries. Established over a century ago, this premier organization is not just adapting to change; it’s leading the charge, equipping professionals with the tools to navigate tomorrow’s challenges today.
Founded in 1909 as the Insurance Institute of America, the IIA was born out of a pressing need for structured training in the burgeoning field of insurance. From its inception, the organization dedicated itself to fostering expertise among individuals pursuing careers in property, casualty, and liability underwriting. A pivotal collaboration in 1953 with the American Institute for Property and Liability Underwriters (AIPLU) marked a turning point, expanding its reach and influence. This partnership laid the groundwork for innovative programs that would become industry standards.
Fast forward to 2009, and the IIA underwent a transformative rebranding to The Institutes, reflecting its evolved mission and modernized approach to education. Today, headquartered in Malvern, Pennsylvania, The Institutes offers more than 25 designations, including the prestigious Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) program, alongside a suite of online courses and resources tailored for risk managers, agents, brokers, and underwriters. “Our goal has always been to bridge the gap between theory and practice,” says Dr. Lisa O. Montgomery, President and CEO of The Institutes. “In a world of rapid disruption, our programs don’t just teach insurance – they teach resilience.”
One of The Institutes’ flagship offerings is the Professional Risk Consultant (PRC®) designation, developed in partnership with The Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers. This program provides foundational knowledge for emerging agents and brokers, emphasizing strategic risk-solving and client-centric advisory skills. For those eyeing advanced credentials, the CPCU designation – supported by rigorous courses delivered through The Institutes – opens doors to full membership in the CPCU Society, a global network of over 60,000 professionals committed to ethical leadership and innovation.
The Institutes’ commitment to accessibility is evident in its free sample courses and AI-focused introductory modules, which can be completed in as little as one hour. These resources demystify how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing claims processing, underwriting, and risk assessment, empowering users regardless of their role in the industry. As Tracie Warder, CPCU, AU, AINS, and Commercial Farm Ranch Consultant at American Family Insurance, shares: “The Institutes gave me the skills to effectively manage complex risks – from farm operations to ranch exposures – and elevated my career in ways I never imagined.”
Beyond education, The Institutes serves as a thought leader, producing cutting-edge research and resources that inform public policy and industry best practices. Collaborations with organizations like the Insurance Information Institute (III) highlight the broad spectrum of career opportunities in insurance, from self-insurance strategies via the Self-Insurance Institute of America (SIIA) to data-driven insights that empower consumers. In Illinois, for instance, recent advocacy underscores how balanced underwriting practices enhance coverage affordability and availability, a stance echoed in The Institutes’ broader mission.
As the insurance sector grapples with a projected $100 billion in U.S. catastrophe losses from 2024 alone – driven by wildfires and storms – The Institutes is doubling down on sustainability and innovation. Upcoming initiatives include expanded AI literacy programs and partnerships to address climate-resilient risk management. “We’re not just training the next generation; we’re building an industry that’s proactive, inclusive, and unbreakable,” adds Montgomery.
For professionals ready to advance, The Institutes invites you to explore their offerings at web.theinstitutes.org. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a newcomer, the path to mastery starts here.
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About The Institutes
The Institutes is a leading provider of education, research, and designators for the risk management and insurance industry. With a legacy spanning more than 115 years, it supports over 15,000 learners annually through innovative programs that drive professional growth and industry excellence. For more information, visit web.theinstitutes.org.