Title: Underwriter Trainee, Associate Underwriter
Company: IAT Insurance Group
Location: Raleigh, NC
Education: BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, Shaw University, Sum Cum Laude (2023); Coursework in Communication and Media Studies, NC State University (2012)
Career History: Associate Underwriter, Underwriter Trainee, IAT Insurance Group (2023-Present); Pest Specialist, Termite Specialist, Innovative Pest Solutions (2021-2023); Triangle Lawn Care and Branch Manger, Triangle Pest Control (2017-2021); Lawn Care Technician, Trugreen, Morrisville, NC (2016-2017); Crew Member, Trader Joe’s, Chapel Hill, NC (2014-2016)
Corinthas Patterson, Underwriter Trainee and Associate Underwriter at IAT Insurance Group, has been recognized as a Marquis Emerging Leader for their contributions and achievements in the field of insurance.
With completed coursework in communication and media studies from North Carolina State University in 2012, Mr. Patterson gained a strong work ethic over the next decade, including at Trader Joe’s, as a lawn care technician and branch manager at Triangle Pest Control from 2017 to 2021, and as a specialist with Innovative Pest Solutions from 2021 to 2023, climbing the ranks in the industry and building strong relationships with his team. In the midst of working, though, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in interdisciplinary studies from Shaw University, graduating summa cum laude in 2023, shifting his career focus to insurance.
Currently an associate underwriter for IAT’s commercial truck division, Mr. Patterson has progressed quickly since starting in 2023. He adapted quickly within a program that typically takes several years, advancing from trainee in less than a year, providing him with the authority to make decisions for the company. In his role, he manages relationships with assigned agencies; confirms appropriate coverage for clients; analyzes and makes decisions on insurance applications; collaborates with agents to provide clarity on products; and trains new employees on software and processes. In addition, he stays updated on industry trends and regulations, ensures compliance with company policies, assists in the development of competitive quotes, and participates in team meetings and discussions.
As a testament to his achievements at the company, Mr. Patterson has won the IAT Silver Spot Award two years in a row, in 2024 and 2025. He attributes his success to the support and belief of those who gave him a chance throughout his career. He believes his opportunities came from hiring managers and interviewers who recognized his potential. While he can learn job skills, he understands that his personal qualities are crucial to his success. He values the support he received early in his career, seeing it as important for both personal and professional growth.
Looking ahead, Mr. Patterson aims to advance into a management track within the trucking department. He has shared his aspirations with his manager, who acknowledges his contributions so far. Although there is no designated management role on his current team, he remains optimistic about the growth and advancement opportunities his company offers. In addition to his management goals, he’s committed to earning the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation, which demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the field. Outside of work hours, he enjoys playing basketball, spending time in nature, going on hikes, and traveling.