Kathy Earle started as an actuary at Guardian Life Insurance Co. of America after graduating from college.
“People either never heard about it, or they think it has something to do with birds,” Earle joked about the job title.
Actuaries such as Earle manage risk for other businesses and individuals. It can be a demanding job: Earle said four out 10 people typically fail actuarial exams on the first try. But upon entering risk-management careers, people find the rewards can be great, she said.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says 2017 median annual pay for actuaries was $101,560, and employment in the field is predicted to grow 22 percent through 2026. The field also carries a 1.7 unemployment rate, Earle said.
“It’s one of the best jobs in the STEM careers,” said Earle, referring to science, technology, engineering and math.
Added fellow Guardian employee Alison Rothrock, in a quasi-tradition at Guardian for adult workers who pass the actuarial exams, “Don’t forget the happy hour.”
