About Us
History
Our
The OSIA was originally formed by some of Oklahoma's largest self-insured employers to facilitate networking and legislative representation. Over the years, the OSIA focused on high deductible and mid-sized employers and served as an organization that provided education and allowed for networking between its members and vendors that it's members used.
Today the organization is inclusive of all sizes of businesses and looks to serve small to large organizations throughout the state. Whether self-insured or fully insured, OWCEA provides education and resources to assist in managing the Worker's Compensation needs of its members.
In the early 1980s Oklahoma Self Insurance Association (OSIA) was originally formed by some of Oklahoma's largest self-insured employers to facilitate networking and legislative representation. Over the years, the OSIA focused on high deductible and mid-sized employers and served as an organization that provided education and allowed for networking between its 400 members and vendors.
Leadership helping to strengthen our mission has included Julius Kubier, Gaylon Stacey, Justin Hill, Patrick Gaines and Wendy Gerdes. The founding and past association leadership has been profoundly impactful for paving the path to where we are at today.
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Due to the increased demand for development and mentorship of Work Compensation program management the OSIA began the journey of changing our platform on how we can be of service to employers in Oklahoma.
In 2022, the OSIA changed its name to the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Education Association, adding Workers’ Compensation education to its mission in addition to its self-insurance advocacy role.
Today the organization is inclusive of all sizes of businesses and looks to serve small to large organizations throughout the state. Whether self-insured or fully insured, OWCEA provides education and resources to assist in managing the Worker's Compensation needs of its members.
Our
Team
Jennifer Milligan
President
Jennifer has over 27 years in Workers Compensation cost containment. Jennifer's passion is educating companies on how to approach program implementation and management using data and employee injury prevention awareness, engagement, and recognition. Teddy Roosevelt award winner (2006 & 2023) by Risk and Insurance.
Lisa Dailey
Vice President
Lisa is currently serving as the Fund Manager for the Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives self-insured workers compensation fund. She is also CEO of Energize Credit Union which caters to the financial needs of electric and telephone cooperative employees in Oklahoma.
Heather Karr
Board Member
Heathers career in claims spans over 25 years, beginning with a national company. After gaining valuable experience, she transitioned to a local third party administrator, where she dedicated 22 years to adjusting claims, advancing to management, and ultimately embracing a business development role. Today, Heather serves as the Client Performance Director at Corvel, within their CareIQ division.
Kimberly Reid
Bio Coming Soon
Carl Carlson III
Officer
Becco Contractors, Inc. Tulsa Becco Contractors Inc’s safety director/ risk manager for 12 years. 32 years’ experience in construction industry (heavy highway road and bridge, environmental remediation), starting as a labor, equipment operator, supervisor, and project manager.
Patrick Parr
Officer
McAnany, Van Cleave & Phillips, P.A., Patrick represents employers and insurance carriers in the defense of workers’ compensation claims. He has spent his entire legal career in the area of Workers’ Compensation and has represented all range of employers in defending their claims, including the Multiple Injury Trust Fund, school districts, self-insured employers and Fortune 500 Companies.
Emanuel W. Smith
Officer
Director of Safety for Cummins Construction Company in Enid. Emanuel has spent over 20 years developing, and training OSHA, MSHA, DOT and DEQ based programs focusing in safety conscious workplace. During his time with Cummins, he has developed & implemented programs that focus culture on prevention and compliance leading teams to achieving safety excellence.
Trent Richey
Officer
With 32 years in the Oil & Gas industry in Finance working at Kerr-McGee Corporation as Manager of Corporate Finance, SandRidge Energy as VP & Treasurer, and Bravo Natural Resources, as CFO. Trent, transitioned to the Work Comp Industry in 2020 and owns AUI-OK LLC. Trent manages self-funded groups & provide excess insurance in the same industry.
Jene Huckabay
Officer
Smart Casualty Claims Oklahoma City Ms. Huckabay has 40+ years of experience in all areas of workers’ compensation. After starting her career with Travelers Insurance, she made the move to Third Party Administration and is currently Claims Office Manager for Smart Casualty Claims in Oklahoma City. She has worked with all levels and types of employers.
La Veta Breath
Officer
Ms. Breath is a native to Oklahoma City. She graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership. She also received her Master of Public Administration from UCO. She has been in insurance for 23+ years. Her career began in workers’ compensation claims and has expanded to include property/liability and safety management.
Cheryl King
Officer
With 31 years in Workers’ Compensation and Risk Management across OK, KS, AR, and TX Cheryl has worked as a self-insured company WC manager, insurance carrier, TPA, broker, and risk manager. She has served on the Oklahoma State Advisory Board for Workers’ Comp and collaborated on workers' comp law issues to improve medical care. Currently, she serve’s on the Board of Directors for the Oklahoma Safety Council and has worked with key professionals in the field throughout her career.
Who
Are We
Advocacy Program
The Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Education Association serves as an advocacy resource for business entities and their providers at the state level on issues affecting workers’ compensation.
Any regulation proposed by the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission — the agency responsible for overseeing workers’ comp in the state — is thoroughly reviewed by the OWCEA board. The board includes former regulatory leaders and current workers’ compensation experts, including employers, claims professionals and vendors.
Education Resource
OWCEA offers in-person training on all aspects of basic workers’ compensation education, regardless of participants’ experience levels. Beginners are welcome.
Training topics include safety and loss prevention, claims handling, return-to-work strategies, litigation strategies, best practices for initial medical care, and more.
Certification Program
OWCEA is developing a certification program for active workers’ compensation professionals and those seeking to enter the industry.
This program will recognize individuals with a well-rounded education in workers’ compensation, making it an invaluable resource for newcomers and seasoned professionals looking to enhance their skills.