GOLDSBORO, N.C. — Brianny Gillis discovered her professional calling in an industry often overlooked by prospective students: risk management and insurance. What began as curiosity about a broad field has evolved into a focused pursuit, with Wayne Community College’s specialized program serving as her foundation.
Gillis enrolled in WCC’s Risk Management and Insurance program seeking accessibility and flexibility. “WCC offered the program close to home and provided the flexibility I needed,” she explained. For Gillis, who has relocated during her studies and manages a demanding schedule, the program’s online delivery proved instrumental. “Being able to complete the program online has allowed me to balance school with appointments and other personal responsibilities,” she said.
A Comprehensive Education in Risk Management
WCC’s Risk Management and Insurance program equips students with the technical expertise and strategic thinking required for careers across the insurance industry. The associate-degree curriculum covers foundational topics including finance, ethics, and business law, alongside specialized courses in various insurance disciplines. This comprehensive approach positions graduates for roles in diverse organizational settings.
The program’s flexibility mirrors industry demands. Students can pursue the degree entirely online, with select evening and hybrid options available for those seeking alternatives. This adaptability has made the program attractive to working professionals and students balancing competing responsibilities.
Strong Career Prospects
Insurance professionals in North Carolina command competitive salaries across multiple specializations. Insurance sales agents earn an average of $57,110 annually, while underwriters command $72,180, and claims adjusters receive $74,830 per year. Beyond these traditional roles, the industry encompasses investigation, fraud analysis, corporate risk assessment, compliance, and emerging fields such as cyber risk management.
Gillis emphasized the program’s breadth: “WCC’s Risk Management and Insurance program prepares you for far more than selling policies or settling claims. It covers investigation, fraud analysis, corporate risk assessment, compliance, underwriting, and even emerging areas like cyber risk.”
Building Professional Networks
Recognizing the value of industry connections, Gillis attended the North Carolina Public Risk Management Association’s annual conference this year. The networking opportunity proved invaluable, introducing her to professionals in municipal, city, and state risk management roles. “I gained contacts, tips, and insight into job opportunities,” Gillis noted. “Some people even reached out after the event because they knew I’m a student eager to start my career.”
Looking Forward
Gillis will complete her degree in spring 2026 and plans to pursue additional education eventually. For now, she remains focused on exploring the diverse career pathways available within the industry. “I’m still exploring,” she said. “There are so many opportunities in this field that I want to try a few paths to find my niche.”
Her confidence stems partly from the practical and theoretical knowledge WCC has provided. “WCC gives you a strong foundation with both practical and theoretical knowledge so you can step into a career that’s stable and constantly evolving,” Gillis said. “A degree in Risk Management and Insurance isn’t just a credential; it’s a launchpad.”
For more information about WCC’s Risk Management and Insurance program, contact WCC Business and Accounting Department Chair Erin LeGrand at [email protected] or 919-739-6880.
