Affordability and accessibility were the two main reasons Shane Ross of Elyria chose to attend Lorain County Community College. Both allowed him to explore different career pathways to find the right fit.  

But when Ross, 21, stumbled upon LCCC’s Insurance Fast Track Certificate program, which provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to work in the growing insurance industry, he knew he found the pathway for him. 

“I was always good at solving problems and helping others,” he said. “So, I thought that this would be the perfect program for me.” 

It has been. The 12-week Fast Track program prepares participants for remote work positions with local companies like Progressive Insurance and Erie Insurance, which are actively hiring for well-paying entry-level positions. With only three online classes, students like Ross are prepared to land a job that fits their life. 

“When I graduate from the program and pass the state licensing exam, I plan to work for a big insurance company and work my way up from there,” Ross said. 

That’s the goal for employers too, especially Progressive Insurance which touts its fast-paced employee promotions.  

“Most people don’t dream of working in the insurance industry,” said Kevin McGrath, Progressive Insurance Director of Engineering and Data Center Operations. “With our strong culture, people often come for a job and stay for a career. The possibilities are endless once you get in the door. People find what they like to do, and then they grow their career in whatever part of the business that they find most interesting.” 

McGrath said Progressive Insurance partnered with LCCC to create a continuous flow of potential new hires. And the program has been building momentum since its 2023 start. 

“The spring 2025 cohort will be the fourth so far and the program has grown continuously with every passing semester,” McGrath said. “We want to continue that momentum. And we’ve guaranteed interviews for everyone who goes through the program and passes the state license exam. So that’s a great first step.” 

Beyond the high probability of landing a high-paying entry-level job with a local insurance company, Ross said he’s graduating from LCCC without any debt.  

“I am so grateful to LCCC for their low-cost tuition,” Ross said. “If LCCC didn’t exist, I wouldn’t have had nearly as many opportunities to enhance my career outlook as I have currently.”