Mia Hicks

DISA Global Solutions | Manager of Risk and Compliance

<p>Mia Hicks is the Manager of Risk and Compliance at DISA Global Solutions, where she expertly leverages her extensive background in operations management and quality assurance to uphold the highest standards of compliance and risk mitigation.</p>

About Mia

With over two decades of experience, Mia leads a dedicated team of compliance professionals responsible for maintaining a corporate compliance program that meets the Department of Justice’s standards of compliance and corporate responsibility. Her deep expertise in recruiting, onboarding, and training has been instrumental in building resilient teams equipped to manage complex compliance challenges across dynamic environments.

Mia pursued a major in Liberal Arts at Lonestar College. This broadened her perspective and honed her critical thinking skills, making her well-equipped to tackle the complex and ever-evolving landscape of compliance. The interdisciplinary nature of Liberal Arts education nurtured her ability to consider diverse viewpoints, collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, and make ethical decisions that align with regulatory requirements. Also, Mia holds a Certificate in Substance Abuse Program Administration signifying her expertise in program planning, implementation, evaluation, and adherence to ethical standards in substance abuse treatment and prevention. Her leadership is defined by a hands-on approach to coaching and robust team building, significantly enhancing team performance and fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration. Mia oversees and provides Management Information System (MIS) statistical reporting for DOT consortium random programs, supporting over 7,000 policyholders. She meticulously monitors internal process compliance with policies and procedures across 15 DOT and non-DOT drug testing programs, impacting over 25,000 policyholders.

Her role extends to interpreting complex DOT regulations and non-DOT policy guidelines, ensuring her staff maintains thorough regulatory knowledge. Mia developed and facilitated a DOT Designated Employer Representative (DER) training course, recognized by the CCDAPP (Certification Commission for Drug and Alcohol Program Professionals) Certification Commission as a qualified continuing education offering. She reviews state and federal laws, regulations, and accreditation standards, keeping DISA and its clients well-informed of legislative changes. Additionally, Mia manages subpoenas and litigation requests and supports the discovery process with outside counsel, drafting business correspondence related to litigious issues and regulatory changes. Her proactive and consultative approach to establishing solid relationships with DOT program administrators, investigators, and third-party auditors underscores her commitment to excellence in compliance management.

Latest by Mia Hicks

male posing at the camera in cabin of passenger aircraft

The FAA Drug Test Refusal Ruling and What Aviation Employers Must Know About It

The D.C. Circuit ruled the FAA must independently review employer drug test refusals. Here's what aviation employers should do now to stay compliant. 

addictive substances workplace drug and alcohol testing

Ohio Updates Voluntary Drug and Alcohol Testing Program

Ohio’s new SUPR program replaces DFSP, offering 4 compliance levels with incentives, training, and reimbursements for workplace drug testing. 

oral fluid swab test

What Employers Should Know About DOT Oral Fluid Testing Rules

DOT now allows oral fluid drug testing, but implementation is pending. Learn what employers need to prepare for full compliance in 2025. 

employee and collector for urine analysis direct observation collection

How Executive Orders Could Reshape Direct Observation Drug Testing for Transgender Employees

Explore how Executive Order 14168 could change DOT drug testing rules for transgender employees and what employers must know to stay compliant. 

Contruction workers wearing safety equipment

Understanding Safety-Sensitive Positions and Their Impact on Workplace Compliance

Learn how to define safety-sensitive positions and stay compliant with DOT and state drug testing laws in regulated and non-regulated industries.

Female truck driver sitting in an 18-wheeler

DISA Global Solutions Joins Women In Trucking

DISA joins Women In Trucking to promote diversity, inclusion, and compliance in the transportation industry. Learn how we’re supporting women in trucking.

doctor holding a clipboard with a Substance Abuse Report form

What Happens When an Employee Refuses a Drug Test?

Learn the legal and workplace consequences of refusing a drug test, including DOT and non-DOT rules, termination, and best practices for employers.

Medical Technician putting a swab of oral fluid into a test tube

Part 40 Final Rule: DOT Summary of Changes and What It Means for Employers and Collectors

DOT final rule adds oral fluid drug testing. Learn key updates for employers, collectors, and service agents starting Dec 5, 2024.

Gavel and cannabis leaf

November 2024 Elections Bring About Cannabis Changes

Get election updates on cannabis laws in FL, NE, ND & SD. Learn how these changes may impact workplace policies and compliance.

businessman checking off boxes

DISA Pushes DOT to Allow Electronic Alcohol Testing Forms – Proposed Rule Announced

DISA pushes for DOT’s proposed rule allowing electronic forms for alcohol testing, reducing delays in drug and alcohol testing processes.

woman analyzing drug test urine sample

Random Drug Testing: A Comprehensive Guide for Employers

Learn the best practices for random drug testing in your workplace to enhance safety and productivity.

Pittsburgh writing medical cannabis prescription

Pittsburgh Bans Discrimination Against Medical Cannabis Patients

Pittsburgh bans discrimination against medical cannabis users, impacting workplace drug testing and employer policies. Learn how this affects you.