Sophia Gatewood, the Assistant Vice President of Risk Management at Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), discusses her role in safeguarding the organization's assets. DART, which serves 13 cities in the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex, is funded through a 1% sales tax, state and federal grants and ridership revenue. Despite the state of Texas not mandating liability insurance for DART due to governmental immunity, the federal FAST Act requires DART to carry $323 million in rail liability insurance. To manage this requirement, DART collaborates with smaller transit authorities to share insurance costs.

The episode also explores Sophia's career transition from private insurance to public risk management as well as the organizations and associations that have helped in her journey to dealing with transit risk.

Nakeschi Watkins, the Director of Risk Management and Insurance at Cornell University, shares her insights and experiences in managing risks for a large, research-driven institution with multiple global locations. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and relationship-building with stakeholders to effectively identify and mitigate both insurable and non-insurable risks. The episode highlights the unique challenges posed by the political landscape and the innovative nature of university research, which can introduce unforeseen risks. 

Additionally, the episode discusses the evolving work models post-pandemic and the strategic adjustments required in risk management. Nakeschi offers advice to women entering the field, highlighting the dynamic and rewarding aspects of higher education risk management.

Catrina Gilbert, Vice President of Risk Management at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, shares insights from her extensive career in risk management across different sectors, including transportation, aviation, retail, the medical field and janitorial companies. She discusses the comprehensive risk management strategies at DFW, covering financial, reputational and operational risks, and details the implementation of various mitigation strategies.

The episode delves into the complexities of managing a large airport, which functions similarly to a small city with its own essential services like fire and police departments, clinics and hotels. She stresses the significance of community engagement and efficient operations, which are supported by a governing board appointed by the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth. The podcast wraps up advice to those aspiring to a career in risk management, encouraging them to pursue their passions and explore diverse opportunities in various industries.

Sam McClelland, the Director of Risk Management at George Mason University, shares insights into the evolving role of women in risk management within educational settings. The episode highlights the university's innovative approach to integrating AI into their systems by appointing a VP for AI, aiming to address the unique challenges AI presents in education.

The conversation also explores the broad scope of risk management in higher education, emphasizing the need for adequate resources and strategic planning. Her approach is deeply influenced by her background in law enforcement, focusing on empathy and the importance of listening.

Desiree Ramirez, the Chief Integrity Officer at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, discusses the critical role of comprehensive participation in risk management within an organization. She highlights the unique compliance and integrity program at UNT HSC, the development of an integrity framework and emphasizes the importance of transparency, communication and education in risk mitigation.

She also shares insights into her personal journey into the field of compliance and risk management, underscoring the evolving nature of the profession and its significant impact on both institutions and individuals.

Rachel Pluviose, Senior Director of Risk Management at Johns Hopkins University, discusses her accidental journey into risk management from a planned medical career. She highlights the complexities of managing risks in a large educational and health institution, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the field influenced by societal changes like the MeToo movement. She also stresses the importance of mentorship and the need for the industry to actively develop the next generation of risk managers. The episode underscores the evolving educational landscape in risk management and the ongoing need to bridge the gap between seasoned professionals and emerging talent.

Sandy Mitchell, Director of Insurance at MIT, discusses her extensive experience in risk management. She shares insights into the diverse and dynamic nature of risk management, her journey through various roles in the industry and the importance of continuous learning and engagement in her field. 

Sandy also emphasizes the significance of mentorship and community in risk management, sharing personal stories about the impact of mentors and her efforts to guide younger professionals. The episode highlights the challenges and opportunities in risk management within higher education, providing valuable perspectives for professionals in the field.

Listen to the the first episode of the series, Women in risk and education (WIRE), where we dive into a fresh perspective of what it means to be a woman of color and risk manager for a preeminent higher educational institution. Hear from Courtney Davis Curtis, Assistant Vice President for Risk Management and Resilience Planning for The University of Chicago, about her considerations and life experiences of ascending to a prestigious position of importance at the University of Chicago. 

We also discuss how we can develop a pipeline of students interested in risk management, the importance of mentorship, DEIB and excitement of working in the field of risk management.