Over 40 Jurisdictions and 70 Organizations Tuned In to the IAIABC 108th Convention
The IAIABC 108th Convention, held in Scottsdale, Arizona from September 12-15, 2022, was the IAIABC’s first in-person Convention since 2019. In addition, many sessions were available live online for attendees who participated virtually. Professionals from 41 jurisdictions and 75 organizations tuned in and carried on a century-long tradition of gathering to consider, collaborate, and debate new ideas and solutions to help reduce harm and aid recovery for workers and their employers.
Through a mix of presentations, jurisdictional forums, discussion sessions, committee meetings, and social events, participants had several opportunities to gain new knowledge and insights and to connect with peers.
Issues addressed during the Convention included innovation, work disability prevention and mitigation, implementing DEI initiatives, interoperability of data, post-pandemic mental health issues, using active listening, and more.
The Convention began with a keynote address by Richard Picciotto, FDNY Chief and highest-ranking firefighter to survive the World Trade Center Collapse. Author of the book, Last Man Down, Chief Picciotto delivered a moving recollection of 9/11 by focusing not on the death and destruction, but on a renewed belief in what is truly important.
Later in the Convention, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives were discussed at the Leveling the Playing Field session. Clarence “Bucky” McGill, one of the “Syracuse 8” discussed his personal story of participating in a civil rights protest that affected the course of his life and his career. Following McGill’s talk, a panel of three jurisdictional representatives discussed actions their agencies have taken regarding DEI initiatives.
Said Gregor Kemper, the Convention’s presiding President and the first-ever IAIABC President from outside North America, “The IAIABC Convention brought together leaders from around the world to share ideas for improving occupational accident systems and strategies for preventing accidents and the onset of work disability. Through the valuable content and opportunities to connect and learn from each other, attendees gained tremendous insights. I am proud to have been a part of it.”
As the IAIABC’s first-ever hybrid event, both virtual and in-person attendees have access to recordings of many of the Convention’s educational programs.
The IAIABC 108th Convention was a resounding success, with one attendee stating, “This is hands down my favorite conference I attend.” The IAIABC looks forward to continuing to support those in the workers’ compensation industry now and in the future through its conferences and many other member services.
About the IAIABC
The International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions is a not-for-profit association representing government agencies charged with the administration of workers’ compensation systems as well as other workers’ compensation professionals in the private sector. Its mission is to find solutions to reduce harm and aid recovery from occupational injuries and illnesses. Learn more about the IAIABC at www.iaiabc.org.
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Contact: Cameron Nudleman, IAIABC Membership & Communications Manager
Phone: (608) 410-2216
Email: cnudleman@iaiabc.org