Set up for success: How Marquette’s Insurance Leadership Program prepares students for an opportunity-rich industry

Today's insurance industry looks vastly different than it did years ago. The influence of artificial intelligence and data analytics has reshaped processes and redefined roles. Marquette's new Insurance Leadership Program, led by Director Jae Junkunc, is preparing students to enter this ever-evolving, opportunity-rich field and hit the ground running.

A seasoned corporate leader with experience at multiple insurance companies, Junkunc joined Marquette in 2025 to spearhead the program which launched in fall of the same year. She has since been named a Notable Leader in Insurance by BizTimes Milwaukee and an 2026 Insurance Power Player by the Independent Insurance Agents of Wisconsin for her leadership and innovation in insurance education.

With well-paying roles and a growing need for young talent, insurance offers a stable career path straight out of college. Junkunc shares how the Insurance Leadership Program prepares students to step into the booming industry with confidence.

What is the Insurance Leadership Program?

Instead of explaining what the program is, it's better to explain the why behind its creation. Insurance is fundamental to the world economy, enabling people and businesses to take smart risks that create growth. In other words, the industry is vital, well-established and growing. The Insurance Leadership Program is designed to prepare graduates with the skills and certifications needed to excel in the field.

What are the benefits for students?

The Insurance Leadership Program equips students with specialized skills and knowledge to meet the growing demand for qualified, young talent in the industry. The program includes comprehensive curriculum, hands-on learning opportunities and pathways to professional certifications. This multifaceted approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for roles in any sector of insurance. This blend of technical skills and industry accreditation positions students to do more than secure their first job in the industry - it helps accelerate their entire career.

How can students get involved?

There are two ways students can get involved with Marquette's Insurance Leadership Program. First, they can join the new Marquette chapter of Gamma Iota Sigma, a professional fraternity for students interested in careers in insurance, risk management and actuarial science. Interested students can email me anytime to learn more about membership and scholarships.

Secondly, interested students can enroll in insurance classes (open to any business major) and/or CFP classes (available to finance majors). The insurance classes start students on the path to earning their Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation, a highly respected credential in insurance. Additionally, finance students who take all four Certified Financial Planner (CFP) courses will be eligible to sit for the CFP exam. This really gives graduates a leg up, as many professionals spend years in the industry before earning the certification.

We also have a study abroad trip scheduled for Spring Break in March 2027. A select 10-12 students will travel to Bermuda, the hub for global insurance, to learn from international leaders who manage billions of dollars of insurance revenue and investment income.

What can students do to get the most out of this program?

In this program, students will get out what they put in. Those who attend events, take leadership roles and network with industry partners will get a headstart on finding internships and career opportunities. In the process, they'll learn how they can be part of the changing industry and build impactful connections that will last their entire career.

What is a piece of advice you'd give to students looking to join this program?

Insurance is a big, complex industry. There are so many facets and opportunities ranging from insuring airplanes to helping a family realize their retirement dreams. Any person with any interest can find a role that matches what they're looking for in a career. Insurance companies hire for all disciplines, are both global and local, and tend to be well-paid and stable - it's an exceptional field to pursue.

If students need support, where can they find help?

Students can reach out to me directly. I am available by email anytime, and I'm on campus regularly for face-to-face conversations.