The Captive Insurance Companies Association (CICA) has named the top three finalist student teams for its 2026 ‘Captive Insurance Solutions for Today’s Risk Management Challenges’ essay contest. Sponsored by Hylant Global Captive Solutions (Hylant GCS), the contest features finalist teams from Temple University, St. Mary’s University – San Antonio, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In the competitive contest, two-person teams were asked to describe how and why a captive insurance company could be used as a cost-effective means of alternative risk financing for new and growing risk challenges. These finalists will now work with mentors from Hylant GCS to revise and enhance their work before a final round of judging. CICA president Dan Towle says: “We received a record number of submissions this year and were so pleased with the exceptional quality of each submission. The finalist teams have done excellent work, and we look forward to having them share their presentations at the conference.” He adds: “This chance to present not only exposes students to what’s possible for their career in captive insurance, but also jumpstarts their network and professional portfolio.” Winners will be announced during the CICA International Conference, held 8-10 March in Palm Desert, California. In addition to cash prizes, finalists will present their essays during an education session and have them published by Captive Insurance Times. Anne Marie Towle, CEO of Hylant GCS, comments: “Engaging students before they graduate from college in this industry is crucial for opening doors to employment and long-term career growth. The high-quality essays from this year’s finalists show how these students can contribute to the overall development of the industry. This gives students a platform for their future success to build on.” John Savage, publisher of Captive Insurance Times, adds: “We are proud to partner with CICA as the exclusive publisher of the finalists' essays. This has been a fantastic initiative by CICA that provides a vital platform for students, introducing the next generation of graduates to the captive industry and the industry to them.”
