Today, our APHL spotlight is on Jahniya Knox, an apprentice with Aon and the 2024 Rising Star Apprentice of the Year from the Philadelphia Apprentice Network (PAN). Jahniya started the Aon Apprenticeship Program in 2023 and initially learned of the apprenticeship program as a participant in Summer Search, while thinking about her next steps after high school. Jahniya states, “I decided an apprenticeship program would be the best option for me, as it would allow me to pursue a career and continue schooling.” As an Actuarial Property Casualty apprentice, Jahniya supports her colleagues in the analysis and forecast of emerging risks using mathematics and statistics. We asked her a few questions to summarize her experience as an apprentice.
Q: What does a day in your life look like at your apprenticeship program?
Jahniya: “My day as an apprentice can vary. Within my department, I will modify and analyze data from various companies and/or sit in on calls. To train for my role, I was able to shadow many members of my department, as well as receive training modules and practice work from my colleagues.”
During their work week, Aon apprentices attend classes (related technical instruction) at a partner college and will also participate in check-ins with their mentors/managers.
Q: What is the best part of your apprenticeship program?
J: “The best part of my apprenticeship is the bond that I have built with my cohort and the other apprentice cohorts at Aon. The program encourages connection; therefore, I was able to meet the most inspiring people both within the program and outside of the program.”
Q: What is one thing you would tell others (family, friends, the community) about the benefits of apprenticeship?
J: “I would tell others that growth is obtainable and guaranteed within apprenticeship. Not only is your career growing but you have the chance to grow your mindset with apprenticeship.”
Q: If someone is interested in an apprenticeship, what would you encourage them to do or think about prior to applying to an apprenticeship program?
J: “Prior to applying to an apprenticeship, I would encourage someone to ask questions. Through questions it would be apparent how beneficial apprenticeship programs are to a person’s development.”
Aon’s federally registered apprenticeship program is a two-year program where apprentices spend a combined forty hours per week in the office and in the classroom at a partner community college. The “Learn While You Earn” opportunity offers paid tuition toward an associate degree, a competitive salary, and additional support needed to ensure success. According to Jahniya, the program “allows for apprentices to receive support professionally, academically, and personally.” Jahniya is scheduled to complete Aon’s apprenticeship program in August 2025, where she plans to continue growing in her role at Aon. To learn more about Aon’s apprenticeship program and how to apply, visit their website here.
Are you an apprentice or program sponsor who wants to share a success story? Email [email protected] to learn more.