Incoming—A New Generation of Industry Professionals

Employment for a number of positions in the employee benefits and related industries is projected to grow much faster than expected from 2020 to 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Increased openings for financial managers, compensation and benefits specialists, actuaries, and risk managers are expected to result from retirements of seasoned professionals across the industries.

How will these positions be filled? Who will replace those leaving and how will they be prepared to meet the health and retirement plan needs of employees and clients? Today’s reality makes these questions even more important. The benefits landscape changes rapidly in “normal” times. The pandemic has elevated the importance of providing support for employees’ physical, emotional, mental and financial well-being, and the need for on-going education regarding benefits.

The future of the industry points to university students and early professionals. Gamma Iota Sigma, a professional fraternity with chapters in over 95 universities and more than 20 alumni groups, helps prepare students and recent graduates for careers in the benefits and related industries. Gamma Iota Sigma engages and connects top talent with the insurance industry through education, industry partnerships, and networking opportunities.

How can you help engage and prepare the industry’s future professionals?

• Reach out to universities and alumni groups, and offer to speak or attend their career fairs
• Share your story and experiences with these students
• Provide examples of positions available in the industry
• Help them understand the importance and satisfaction of this work
• Explain the value of professional designations like CEBS® that are available to help them prepare for and excel in these positions.

This is a great way to spotlight your organization and opportunities there, pay it forward and continue to support the benefits industry!

A Power Point presentation with specific information on the benefits of earning the CEBS designation as a student or early career professional is available for speaking events. Please contact Sandy Tellefson, CEBS, at sandyt@ifebp.org.

Sandy Tellefson, CEBS
Manager, Education Services CEBS/ISCEBS