If you ask John McNeil, there’s a great deal to like about a career in the insurance industry.
McNeil, who’s associate dean of Continuous Professional Learning with Humber Polytechnic’s Longo Faculty of Business, calls it a stable career – which is saying something considering the rapidly changing workplace landscape. It offers a variety of careers paths – from underwriting to claims and more – along with attractive compensation and benefits.
“Insurance is often described as the oxygen that keeps the economy alive,” said McNeil, noting that insurance is something that is utilized by almost all industries and individuals in some capacity.
He added there’s currently a dire need for talent in the sector along with a diversity of employees.
That’s why McNeil is so excited about the new partnership the Longo Faculty of Business has established with Lloyd’s and the Canadian Association of Black Insurance Professionals (CABIP) that will benefit students enrolled in Humber’s Insurance Management – Property and Casualty program.
The program, which still has room in its Winter 2026 intake, is securing student’s careers with 95 per cent of those graduating finding employment in the industry, according to McNeil.
Through the agreement, Lloyd’s has established the Lloyd’s Inclusive Futures Scholarship that provides financial support to Black students enrolled in the Insurance Management - Property and Casualty program. The initiative is part of Lloyd’s global Inclusive Futures Program, which is committed to addressing racial inequities in the insurance sector and building a more inclusive talent pipeline.
The scholarship, valued at $28,050 over five years, will be awarded annually beginning in Winter 2026.
In addition to financial support, Lloyd’s will play an active role in enriching the academic experience of Insurance Management – Property and Casualty students. This includes participation in technical panels on emerging industry issues, guest lectures and speaking engagements led by senior Lloyd’s representatives as well as opportunities for students to gain exposure to global insurance markets and practices. Together, these activities will help bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional realities, providing students with direct insights from one of the most globally recognized names in insurance.
Meanwhile, Humber will be hosting a pair of online recruitment events for the program happening Monday, Nov. 17 at 12 p.m. and Monday, Nov. 24 at 6:30 p.m. The events are for those looking to switch fields, are in between jobs or are looking to take the next step in their careers. Participants will hear how Humber’s mix of in-classroom and hands-on learning prepares graduates for success in one of this country’s most essential sectors.
Through the partnership, the Get into Insurance events will feature representatives from both Lloyd’s and CABIP including Ingrid Wilson, director, Governance and Gavin Douglas, Board director.
The one-year Insurance Management – Property and Casualty program Ontario Graduate Certificate program is two academic semesters with a work-integrated learning placement.
McNeil noted that the program is recognized by the Insurance Institute of Canada and that, upon completion, graduates will have seven courses towards receiving their Chartered Insurance Professional designation. As well, the program is recognized by the Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario and prepares learners to write a modified Level One licensing exam.
Find out more by visiting the Insurance Management – Property and Casualty program webpage.