For over a decade, Dawnie Wong built her career in the commercial insurance industry, managing complex accounts and supporting clients across a range of sectors. As cyber threats began to dominate risk conversations, Dawnie realized she needed to expand her expertise. She enrolled in the Certified Cyber Insurance Specialist (CCIS) Designation, an opportunity made possible through the Cyber Insurance Academy Scholarship Program aimed at empowering professionals from diverse insurance backgrounds to upskill in cyber insurance education.
Bridging the Gap with Cyber Insurance Education
For Dawnie, the CCIS course was a way to bridge two worlds that are increasingly interconnected. The blend of cyber insurance education gave her a dual perspective: how cyber policies are designed and how they protect against the real-world threats companies face every day. “During the CCIS program, I found the learning experience to be both engaging and valuable,” she says. “One of the most important takeaways for me was gaining a deeper understanding of cyber insurance, not only from an insurance perspective but also from the technical side of cybersecurity and IT infrastructure.”
Empowering Professional Growth Through Cyber Insurance Education
Dawnie’s story reflects a growing movement among insurance professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve through specialized cyber insurance education. Since completing the CCIS program, Dawnie has continued to excel with a strong focus on cyber coverage. “My long-term goal is to help make cyber coverage as essential and standard as property and liability insurance,” she shares. “The knowledge I gained through the CCIS has been instrumental in shaping this vision and enhancing my professional development.” As the industry evolves, the ability to translate complex cyber risks into tailored coverage solutions is becoming one of the most valuable skills in insurance.
The CCIS scholarship program underscores the importance of accessibility and inclusion in cyber insurance education. By opening doors for professionals like Dawnie, it’s helping to cultivate a more diverse and knowledgeable workforce. As Dawnie puts it, “Education is empowerment. The more we understand cyber risks, the better we can protect our clients, our companies, and our communities.”

