The Lasting Value of Connection

May 19, 2026, 15:24 by Rob Reiskytl, CCA President

 

One of the most rewarding aspects of serving as President of the Conference of Consulting Actuaries (CCA) is connecting with members and hearing their stories—especially those newer to the organization. These conversations highlight not only why people join CCA, but how that purpose evolves over time.

Recently, I spoke with Dan Constantine, head of transition management at State Street Investment Management, whose journey reflects a path many actuaries may recognize. Dan spent the first decade of his career as a retirement consultant and pension actuary, building a strong technical foundation. As his career evolved beyond traditional consulting, he faced a challenge familiar to many in non-traditional roles: maintaining credentials while staying connected to the profession.

This challenge became particularly clear when it came to meeting Enrolled Actuary continuing education requirements. As demands shifted, it became more difficult to keep up, and he eventually allowed his enrollment to go inactive. At that point, colleagues encouraged him to consider CCA membership.

Dan initially joined CCA for practical reasons—primarily flexibility. He needed accessible, cost-effective options to meet continuing education requirements, and CCA provided exactly that through webinars, series programming, and the Virtual Enrolled Actuary Conference.

What’s especially meaningful about Dan’s experience is how his perspective evolved over time.

While flexibility brought him in, connection became the lasting value. Attending the CCA Annual Meeting in Las Vegas marked a turning point. There, he reconnected with former colleagues, built new relationships, and re-engaged with the actuarial community.

That sense of connection is a defining strength of CCA. Whether you are early in your career, maturing in your role, or exploring new directions, having a professional community that supports you makes a significant difference.

Dan also spoke about another important phase of career growth: the shift toward giving back. He reflected on the mentors and managers who shaped his career and noted that he is now at a point where mentorship and contribution are increasingly important to him.

This transition is something we see often among our members. Over time, professional priorities expand beyond credential maintenance to include sharing knowledge, supporting peers, and strengthening the profession.

CCA supports that evolution by offering opportunities to engage—whether through mentorship, volunteer roles, or participation in events.

Dan’s story is a reminder that there is no single path within the actuarial profession. Careers change, roles evolve, and priorities shift. What remains constant is the importance of staying connected to a professional community.

For some, CCA begins as a practical resource. Over time, it becomes something more: a place to build relationships, stay engaged, and contribute in meaningful ways.

I’m grateful to Dan for sharing his perspective, and I look forward to continuing these conversations. Each member story reinforces what makes this community strong—adaptability, connection, and a shared commitment to the profession.