A record number of people took part in a free online foundational insurance course sponsored by the Association of Bermuda Insurers and Reinsurers.

Abir partnered with Bermuda College and the Maurice R. Greenberg School of Risk Management, Insurance and Actuarial Science at St John’s University, New York, to offer the Special Topics in Insurance programme for a fourth consecutive year.

John Huff, Abir’s chief executive, said: “The popularity of the course reflects a strong interest in the reinsurance industry, an interest we are happy to feed through Abir’s sponsorship of this course.

“By enabling free and open access to foundational insurance education, this course supports Abir members’ commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.

“We thank our partners, Bermuda College and St John’s University, and the many volunteer presenters from Abir member companies who have been generous in giving their time and sharing their knowledge.”

More than 700 people enrolled, including students, career shifters and others interested in learning more about the industry.

Twenty speakers, including professionals from Abir member companies, featured in the 14-week programme.

The course material was designed to give participants a grounding in basic industry knowledge and potentially a stepping stone towards a reinsurance career.

For the first time, the course included an in-person “speed networking” event, giving up to 100 participants the opportunity to meet industry professionals, ask questions, investigate potential career paths and make connections.

One speed networker said: “As someone looking to transition careers later in life, the Abir networking event was exactly what I needed.

“The industry and HR professionals provided clear guidance as to where my current qualifications could be leveraged and what opportunities were available, as well as what my next steps should be.

“They gave me the confidence boost I needed to put myself forward for positions.”

Necheeka Trott, acting vice-president of academic and student affairs at Bermuda College, said: “The comprehensive course not only fosters a deeper understanding of insurance and reinsurance, but also promotes diversity, equity and inclusion in the field.”

Mark J. Browne, chairman of the faculty of the School of Risk Management at The Peter J. Tobin College of Business, St John’s University, said they were they were pleased to participate “to raise awareness of the importance of the international insurance business in Bermuda”.