RIMS-CRMP Stories

Candace Heron leads claims management at Toronto Hydro and was named the RIMS 2026 Volunteer of the Year for her achievements as co-chair and co-founder of RIMS Ontario Chapter’s Rising Risk Professional Network. She earned her RIMS-CRMP in 2024 and discussed how her passion for volunteerism has enabled a seamless recertification process.

 

RIMS: What inspired you to pursue the RIMS-CRMP?

Heron: I had heard about RIMS-CRMP through my local chapter, Ontario RIMS and wanted to do a self-study qualification that could showcase my development in the risk management space. RIMS-CRMP had self-study options where I could go at my own pace and being through RIMS, I knew it would be a recognized qualification.

 

RIMS: You are still in the first chapter of your career in risk and insurance. How did your experience prepare you for the exam?

Heron: Learning is something I truly enjoy. My curiosity leads me to ask many questions to understand how things work or why things are the way they are. When preparing for the exam I was surprised at how many of the concepts I had already come across through different work roles and was able to move my thinking from knowing to applying because of previous experiences and education.

 

RIMS: When did you know or realize that the RIMS-CRMP was enhancing your work and your professional profile?

Heron: RIMS-CRMP does get attention from being noted in my email signature. But I first realized how it enhanced my career when I went to update my experiences to keep my certification active through the recertification process. The recertification requirements are something that encourages you to get involved in the industry and helps you keep up to date and contribute back to the profession.

 

RIMS: How did you study or prepare for the exam?

Heron: I utilized the resources on RIMS.org for the exam and did self-study. When I came across something new or something that I felt I could grasp but could not apply, I found a mentor in the area to have discussions about the topic.

 

RIMS: Why should more risk professionals in Canada pursue the RIMS-CRMP?

Heron: Keeping up to date and involved in the industry is an important part of risk management. I believe that type of growth culture is a major contributor to why we have such an amazing insurance and risk community throughout the world. The RIMS-CRMP gives you a qualification, but more importantly it requires your involvement after you get the qualification, which benefits you and others.

 

RIMS: On a related note, how does the RIMS-CRMP supplement your other education, like your coursework at the Insurance Institute of Canada?

Heron: Having the RIMS-CRMP is another way to show my competency and hard work towards growing and developing as an insurance and risk professional. It supplements my other credentials because it shows that I don’t just have the knowledge, I can apply the knowledge.

 

RIMS: How has your volunteer work contributed to recertification points?

Heron: Volunteering is one of my passions and luckily, I get lots of recertification points for it. Getting involved as a speaker, organizing an educational a session, or attending a session rewards you in the moment and lets you grow while maintaining the RIMS-CRMP.

Candace Heron (middle) receives the RIMS Volunteer of the Year Award at RISKWORLD 2026.

 

Hear more from Candace Heron on RIMScast Canada.

See the full RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep calendar.

Interview by Justin Smulison, RIMS Business Content Manager