Challenging the next generation to model the future
Julianne Callaway, Vice President and Actuary, Strategic Research, Global Actuarial Pricing and Research
The actuarial profession is the heart of our industry. With their world-leading mathematical skills and cutting-edge modelling techniques, RGA’s actuaries provide the scientific underpinning for all our products and services.
To support and inspire the next generation of actuaries, RGA Foundation sponsors the Modeling the Future Challenge – a math modelling and data analysis competition that challenges U.S. high school students to create mathematical models to solve real-world problems.
Teams of students make recommendations to companies, organizations, government agencies or other groups based on their own mathematical models, real-world data analysis, and risk management. Those who make it through to the second round are assigned an actuarial mentor who helps refine their project proposals. A group of finalists are invited to present their work at an annual symposium. The top four teams share an award purse of $60,000 in college scholarships.
In addition to the challenge, the MTF Symposium also provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students to participate in career sessions, problem-solving activities, tours, and other unique experiences offered by industry partners.
Addressing the participants at the 2021 awards ceremony, Julianne Callaway, RGA’s Vice President and Actuary, Strategic Research, Global Actuarial Pricing and Research, said “We are constantly looking for new and innovative solutions to help move the industry forward, and we want to support the future of the industry through this program. I hope you continue to solve interesting problems, and as you consider your career in the actuarial profession, you think about how you can make a difference in the world.”
One hundred ninety-three teams from 25 states submitted proposals in 2021. Topics explored by the participants included cybersecurity, wildfires, climate change, pollution, and COVID-19. The 2022 challenge is underway with winners due to be announced in May.
“We want to support the future of the industry”
Julianne Callaway, Vice President and Actuary, Strategic Research, Global Actuarial Pricing and Research
The challenge is hosted annually by the Actuarial Foundation and managed by the Institute of Competition Sciences. It is sponsored by the RGA Foundation, the Lincoln Financial Group, and the Principal Foundation, among others.
More information about the Modeling the Future Challenge can be found at www.actuarialfoundation.org
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