While representing Cornerstone Safety Group at the WRMC this year, we were also able to take part in some fascinating discussions with both members and industry leaders on their fresh insights. We like to look at these opportunities for in-person connection as more than just an event for learning about industry trends; it’s a hub where the evolving landscape of risk management intersects with the innovations and challenges of travel. 

Here are a few of the themes and insights that resonated with us, along with reflections from the team on what these mean for our work and yours.

Recently, Cornerstone Risk Management Advisor, Mike Armstrong, attended a conference which offered a deep dive into the principles of Human and Organizational Performance (HOP). This innovative approach to safety management is gaining traction across industries, from power and manufacturing to aviation and oil and gas. While HOP has primarily been adopted by industries known for their high-risk environments, the lessons learned at the conference have powerful implications for leaders in the tour and travel sectors as well.

For travel companies, making available a meaningful travel insurance option so that participants have the appropriate level of travel insurance is crucial—not just for compliance, but for protecting both travelers and indirectly the business. With ongoing global challenges as well as an individual traveler's personal needs, having a robust travel insurance policy in place is more important than ever.

This month, the Student Youth Travel Association (SYTA) Conference in New York City brought together leaders and professionals from across the student travel industry. It was an event filled with educational opportunities, valuable networking, and, as always, a sense of community that makes SYTA so special. For those who couldn’t attend or are looking to revisit the key moments, here are some of the highlights and takeaways that stood out to us.

Heat illness is a serious concern for travelers, especially those engaging in outdoor and physically demanding activities. As travel and experiential education company owners, it’s imperative to understand how to prevent heat-related illnesses to ensure the safety and well-being of your participants. This blog provides an overview of heat illness prevention, highlighting the importance of preparedness and the use of tools like the Heat Index and Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) device.

At Cornerstone, we specialize in assisting our members in navigating a wide range of challenges that can arise during travel. When those challenges encompass issues related to mental health and medical needs, these can significantly impact an individual's ability to travel or return home, especially in cases involving a psychotic break.

Sexual assault prevention and response are critical responsibilities for owners of travel and experiential education companies. Unfortunately, we’re seeing trends in which participant to participant cases are increasing across the industry. Ensuring the safety and well-being of travelers is paramount, requiring a proactive approach to both prevention and response. This blog outlines best practices for preventing and responding to sexual assault, emphasizing the importance of human-centered strategies, clear communication, and ethical conduct.

As the sun sets on our first leadership retreat, we find ourselves filled with inspiration, reflection, and a renewed sense of purpose. Over several days in April, CEOs and business leaders from member organizations gathered to delve deep into the challenges and opportunities of our industry. Here are some key takeaways from our time together.

Duty of Care is not merely a legal obligation; it's a moral imperative that organizations in the travel and experiential education industry must prioritize the well-being, security, and safety of their participants. However, the landscape of duty of care is as dynamic as the industry itself, constantly evolving with societal changes and industry advancements. In this blog, we explore the fluid and ever-changing nature of Duty of Care, emphasizing its practical application for organizations to operate confidently in a rapidly changing environment.

Embarking on a transformative travel program with minors is a rewarding endeavor that contributes to their growth, resilience, and global awareness. While these programs create profound impacts, they also come with unique challenges and responsibilities. At Cornerstone Safety Group, we recognize the importance of addressing the logistical and protective aspects of working with minors in travel and experiential education.