What if we told you that you can predict the future based on the past? That’s what actuaries do, using not-quite-so-magical tools such as math and statistical models. If you decide to become an actuary, you could play a crucial role in helping your employer plan for the future by evaluating financial risk and uncertainty.

To bring you further insights on this field, we interviewed a panel of experienced actuaries for LaunchPad, including Adelaida and Ken. According to Adelaida, “Actuaries assess the likelihood of bad events that could result in financial loss.” Ken describes actuaries as “engineers of financial security” who use math to evaluate risk.

However, it’s important to note that math is just one of many tools in your toolbox. Our actuaries agreed that you need to be comfortable with the basics of math—but you don’t need to be a math genius.

Overall, actuaries combine math, statistics, finance, and problem-solving skills to manage risk, find solutions to complicated issues, and communicate with decision makers to play an influential role in business.