After graduating from FSU’s Risk Management/Insurance program, Tom Budz began his insurance career at AmTrust, where he held several underwriting positions including Specialty Practice Underwriter working with specialty verticals and national brokers. Tom currently works as a Middle Market Underwriter for Chubb and works part-time at the local fire department and as a volunteer with the Big Brother Big Sister program. In today’s episode of the In The Know podcast, Chris Hampshire sits down with Tom for a look at the lessons that firefighting can teach insurance about safety and success. He highlights his decision to join the insurance industry, what he sees as a middle-market underwriter, and how his role as a firefighter contrasts with his work as an underwriter.   Key Takeaways Tom’s career in insurance began with a simple interview. How insurance programs can better promote themselves to close the industry talent gap. Tom’s experience as an underwriter hasn’t been anything like he expected. Firefighting keeps Tom plenty busy outside his day job hours. Perspectives that Tom has gained as he has surveyed fire damage. Trusting the insurance experts allows things to get done faster. The counterintuitive lessons learned from lifting equipment and fire extinguishers. Tom’s training experience in the fire department translates to his work in the insurance office. Whether relocating for work or working remotely, attracting new talent to the industry requires options and flexibility. Tom’s take on the value of a hybrid work schedule. Life lessons from Tom’s work as a firefighter that apply to anyone. Tom’s success and progress encouragement for his early-career self.