Two years ago, Andrew Lawlor found himself at a career crossroads. Working in the trades, painting elevators for five years, he felt a growing dissatisfaction and a desire for a different path. This pivotal moment led him to discover the Aon Career Launch Program, an opportunity that would not only redefine his professional trajectory but also significantly enhance his life.
At 28, and residing in Hatboro, Lawlor decided to take proactive steps towards change. He enrolled in online courses at Montgomery County Community College (MCCC) as a Liberal Studies major, balancing his studies with his existing job. Serendipitously, his stepdad, working at the College, and the MCCC’s Career Services platform, “Hire a Mustang,” played crucial roles in bringing the Aon Career Launch Program to his attention. This program, offered by the renowned professional services firm Aon, seemed like the ideal bridge to a fulfilling new career.
The advantages of the Aon Career Launch Program were immediately compelling. For Lawlor, a 2014 graduate of Hatboro-Horsham High School, the program presented a unique “earn-while-you-learn” model. It promised not just invaluable on-the-job training but also comprehensive coverage of tuition and textbook expenses while pursuing an associate degree at MCCC. This financial support, combined with practical experience, made the Aon Career Launch Program an exceptionally attractive prospect.
Aon’s U.S. Apprenticeship Program in Greater Philadelphia, known now as the Aon Career Launch Program, is a structured two-year initiative. It masterfully blends practical workplace learning at Aon with academic study at MCCC. Apprentices receive a salary and benefits from Aon, eliminating financial barriers by covering educational costs, making it a truly accessible pathway to a professional career.
As Lawlor progressed through the application process, his enthusiasm for the Aon Career Launch Program intensified. He recognized its potential to leverage his existing skills from the trades and apply them in a completely new professional domain. The program’s structure, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between Aon and its apprentices, resonated deeply with him. Aon’s investment in its apprentices, he realized, was a powerful motivator to excel and contribute meaningfully.
Upon his acceptance into the program in July 2022, Lawlor initially felt apprehensive about transitioning from a hands-on workshop environment to a corporate office setting. However, these anxieties quickly dissipated as he experienced the robust support system provided by Aon. The Aon Career Launch Program included frequent professional development sessions, workshops, and seminars designed to equip apprentices for every facet of their new careers. This comprehensive support network ensured that Lawlor felt prepared and empowered to succeed professionally, academically, and personally.
His academic journey at MCCC was structured around a hybrid model, combining online courses with in-person classes at the Blue Bell Campus. Despite considering himself an average student before, the supportive environment of the Aon Career Launch Program and MCCC transformed his academic performance. He achieved straight As, a testament to his dedication and the program’s effectiveness. This academic turnaround led to his induction into Phi Theta Kappa, the prestigious international honor society for two-year colleges, further boosting his confidence and motivation.
“It gave me motivation,” Lawlor stated, reflecting on his experience. “A taste of the workforce inspired me to keep going. I had a great support system. The goal of a finish line helped. We have a cohort model of six of us go to the same school and classes. It was nice to have a support system and to study together.” The cohort model of the Aon Career Launch Program fostered a collaborative learning environment, providing peer support and shared goals.
Lawlor studied alongside fellow cohort members Sean Higgins and Y’Nhia Pollard, both Liberal Studies majors at MCCC. Their collective success is evident as Higgins now works in Aon’s accounting department, and Pollard is contributing to retirement solutions – all testament to the Aon Career Launch Program’s effectiveness.
Completing the Aon Career Launch Program in August, Lawlor secured a permanent position as a compliance specialist at Aon’s Fort Washington office, with a hybrid work arrangement. He is now pursuing a property and casualty insurance license and a bachelor’s degree in risk management, further solidifying his career progression.
“My life has changed for the better,” Lawlor concluded. “I’m thankful for the school and Aon for the opportunity. I love Montco; it’s an amazing school. I was very happy. It was very well organized and able to meet my needs. I have nothing but great things to say about Montco. It helped me to start the next step in my career and life.” Andrew Lawlor’s story is a powerful illustration of how the Aon Career Launch Program can be a transformative experience, launching individuals into successful and fulfilling careers.
