Andrew Sabolic: Assistant Director for the Division of Workers’ Compensation and Executive Director of The Workers’ Compensation Institute (WCI)

Bloom Magazine is proud to spotlight Andrew Sabolic, a well-respected leader in the workers' compensation community who serves as Assistant Director for the Division of Workers’ Compensation and Executive Director of The Workers’ Compensation Institute (WCI). With decades of experience and a clear vision for the future, Andrew is a driving force behind industry education, collaboration, and innovation.

At the helm of WCI, Andrew oversees the planning and execution of the Workers’ Compensation Educational Conference, the largest event of its kind in the nation. Under his leadership, the conference continues to grow in scope and influence, attracting thousands of professionals from across the industry. His team is responsible for every aspect of the event—from logistics and fundraising to developing meaningful, forward-thinking content. “Our goal is to keep the educational programming not just relevant, but engaging,” he says. “We’re focused on securing top-tier speakers, covering timely topics, and maintaining affordability for attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors alike.”

Andrew’s entry into the world of workers’ compensation was unexpected. Originally working in government and regulatory affairs with the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) in the late 1980s, he accepted a position that took him to St. Louis. That opportunity became the springboard for a long and fulfilling career in workers’ comp. In 2002, he moved to Tallahassee to join the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation, where he rose through the ranks into leadership roles before ultimately taking on the role of Executive Director at WCI in 2022.

Now, with the 2024 conference on the horizon, Andrew and his team are delivering one of the most ambitious programs to date. This year’s event will feature 437 speakers and nearly 170 educational sessions, diving into everything from claims handling to cutting-edge topics like artificial intelligence in workplace safety. A major highlight is the Industry Keynote hosted by Kimberly George and Mark Walls, which will explore emerging trends in risk management.

Attendees can also look forward to a Celebrity Keynote by best-selling author Brad Meltzer, as well as special events like a Monday night concert headlined by Daughtry and the Super Tuesday Soiree featuring NFL legend Jerome Bettis.

Beyond education and entertainment, Andrew is passionate about using the WCI platform for good. Under his leadership, the organization has deepened its commitment to giving back through partnerships with Give Kids The World and Kids’ Chance of Florida, raising over $1 million in support of children with critical illnesses and providing scholarships to families affected by workplace injuries. “These initiatives reflect the heart of our industry,” he notes. “They’re a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.”

Looking to the future, Andrew sees an evolving landscape—one shaped by innovation, collaboration, and responsiveness to both employers’ and workers’ needs. “Workers’ compensation must grow alongside societal and technological changes,” he says. “Our job is to keep the conversation moving forward while staying grounded in our mission to support and protect the workforce.”

For those just entering the field, Andrew encourages embracing the opportunity to create real impact. “Every role matters—from claims to compliance to policy. And along the way, you’ll build connections that can truly shape your career.”

Through his leadership at WCI and the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation, Andrew Sabolic continues to raise the standard for what’s possible in the industry. His unwavering focus on education, advocacy, and innovation ensures the workers’ compensation community is not only equipped for today’s challenges—but inspired to shape a stronger, more connected future.