Beyond Underwriting: Celebrating Diverse Career Paths in Insurance

When many people think about careers in insurance, they picture familiar roles like underwriting or claims. In reality, today’s insurance organizations depend on a much broader mix of skills and professions – many of which aren’t traditionally associated with the industry at all.

At CNA, employees from a wide range of backgrounds have found fulfilling careers by applying their expertise in unexpected ways. As part of Insurance Careers Month, CNA is proud to spotlight professionals who discovered meaningful opportunities beyond the industry’s conventional paths.

Military Experience Fuels a New Kind of Impact

While many professionals pivot into insurance from finance or business, Maria Iraheta – an equipment breakdown representative based in Connecticut – began her career as a mechanical engineer in the United States Navy.

After 23 years of active duty, Maria never imagined her next chapter would lead to insurance. However, she learned about CNA through the Military Service Transition Program, which helped her recognize how her technical expertise aligned with highly specialized equipment breakdown work.

In her role, Maria investigates, evaluates and resolves insurance claims related to mechanical, electrical and pressure system equipment failures.

With guidance from her mentor, Maria has confidently translated decades of Navy expertise into her new profession. More than two years into her role, she says she’s been surprised to see how broad, technical and fast-evolving the insurance industry truly is.

She’s also energized by the rapid pace of change as new equipment and technologies shape how CNA supports customers.

Maria’s experience highlights how technical and operational expertise can flourish in insurance.

A Purpose Driven Path into Talent Development

For others, like Brady Bair, the journey into insurance began not with engineering, but with people-focused work in talent development.

As director of talent development based in Carmel, Indiana, Brady has always prided himself on building a career that is rooted in purpose. He didn’t imagine “purpose” would lead him into insurance, until a recruiter introduced him to an opportunity in talent development at CNA.

Brady soon learned that strong talent development is essential in an industry built on expertise, sound judgment and human connection. In his role, Brady designs and delivers learning experiences that help CNA employees build the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to grow and lead.

After four years in his role, Brady said the most rewarding part of his work is partnering with passionate colleagues who genuinely care about their impact. Brady is also inspired by the depth of humanity that is found in insurance work. Behind every policy is a person, a business or a family depending on CNA’s support.

As the industry continues to evolve, Brady remains energized by the role talent development plays in shaping CNA’s future.

Explore More Non-Traditional Career Paths

If you know someone who’s curious about a career in insurance – or looking for a role with real purpose and impact – share the link below and encourage them to join our Virtual Exploring Insurance Career Day.