Turning Applied Stats into a Career in Insurance Underwriting

Andy Totman ’03 began his journey at RIT as a computer science major, drawn by the problem-solving nature of coding. However, he quickly realized he wanted a career that offered more personal interaction and a less technical focus. RIT proved to be an ideal choice for exploring new paths. "I wanted to learn from subject matter experts alongside ambitious students," he says, drawn to the university’s reputation, academic rigor, and variety of programs. This strong foundation ultimately led him to a successful career in business insurance underwriting.

Commercial lines insurance underwriters assess the risks and determine appropriate terms and conditions on which they may agree to issue insurance policies to organizations. Underwriting, he explains, uniquely blends service with careful risk assessment. “Underwriters act as both the carrier's representatives and risk evaluators, ensuring each client aligns with the company’s risk tolerance. Subject to applicable insurance laws and regulations, they strive to develop tailored insurance programs for clients. This involves quantitative analysis for pricing and limits alongside qualitative evaluations of factors like safety protocols, litigation history, and workplace risks.”

Since starting at The Hartford Financial Services Group, Andy has advanced through various roles, eventually joining Chubb, where he specializes in underwriting businesses in the Life Science industry. His work requires both quantitative and qualitative analysis, assessing risks from property damage to litigation history. "An understanding of statistical principles, rooted in my RIT education, guides my decision-making," he shares.

Andy’s journey from RIT to Chubb exemplifies how a solid foundation in math, statistics, and communication skills can drive success in a dynamic field. Applied Statistics at RIT allowed Andy to combine his passion for math with real-world applications. "The courses I took in math and statistics did a wonderful job of weaving together theoretical foundations with practical applications," he reflects.

Andy also credits several RIT professors for shaping his academic journey, highlighting Dr. Carol Marchetti, Dr. James Marengo and the late Dr. George Georgantas, who "made complex concepts accessible and engaging." This guidance, along with the strong technical foundation he gained, prepared him for the analytical demands of his underwriting career.

Beyond technical expertise, Andy emphasizes the importance of soft skills in the insurance field. “Persuasive writing, verbal communication, and negotiation are key to success,” he notes, encouraging students to explore different roles within the industry and develop well-rounded skills for a successful career.