Experienced alumni, including a committed advisory board, play a vital role in enhancing the experiences of Wisconsin MBA students specializing in risk management and insurance, primarily through mentoring and providing educational opportunities via guest lectures, visits, and consulting projects. In particular, our alumni provide career development and networking opportunities for students at conferences. For example, MBA students regularly attend the Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS) Annual Conference & Exhibition to network and hear presentations from the biggest names in the industry on topics such as globalization, big data implementation, and emerging cyber risks.

Advisory board members and alumni actively connect with students through networking, presenting current topics, and sharing real-world insights on industry topics.

Connect with an Influential Alumni Network

Carl Bartlett

“I've had the privilege of interacting with many risk professionals this year, and in none of my interactions did I approach it as a task to be checked off my list. Rather, it was a genuine opportunity to build relationships with successful professionals who, at one point, were standing in my shoes. Based on their experience, they are often able to connect dots that we as young professionals don't even know exist yet.”

—Carl Barlett, MBA

Will Dickson

“Before the semester officially began, team RMI hit the ground running with an alumni event involving six risk professionals who shared their collective wisdom with first- and second-year students alike. The event featured both recent graduates and seasoned professionals who discussed topics ranging from discovering and navigating career paths to standing out professionally by exhibiting perseverance and ‘grit.’ ”

—Will Dickson, MBA

Jim Swanke

“I am dedicated to the success of the risk management and insurance specialization, so I remain active with current students. Like many of my fellow alumni, I mentor students, attend alumni receptions, recruit high-caliber talent for internships and full-time jobs, and participate in other ways. I have also been fortunate to connect with students in the classroom, while facilitating an applied learning project with Willis Towers Watson and as a lecturer in the Wisconsin MBA program. The connection alumni have to the program is invaluable and I am proud to be a Badger.”

—Jim Swanke, MBA
Managing Principal, Willis Towers Watson

Meet Our Risk Management and Insurance Advisory Board