July 04, 2019
See how CenturyLink's director, claims and counsel, translates her company's mission of supplying reliable and secure connections to her own work, and the advice she has for other professional peers.
Career Quest
Acton was a private practice business litigation attorney when she says Qwest Communications took a chance on her to manage auto and general liability litigated claims. After a year, she was promoted to claims manager in charge of the casualty claims program. She spent the next several years seeking out training and earning insurance certifications to lay a strong risk management foundation to complement her legal education.
Advice for Newbies
“Earn as many industry certifications as you can. It’s not easy to study after a full day of work, but it will distinguish you from peers and open doors for that next job.”
Highs and Lows
Acton says medical marijuana for workers compensation claimants is now a reality, even though it is still illegal under federal law. While she says there is promise that it can eliminate or reduce opioid usage, in her one experience, it was not the cure-all for one of her injured workers, who only briefly eliminated his opioid use before going back to it.
Litigation Partner Pointers
“I want someone with great analytical skills who can get to the heart of the matter and a resolution efficiently. I probably don’t give as much leeway because I’m an attorney.”
Lessons Learned
“Always show compassion and care to your claimants. It is the right thing to do, and it may just make it easier to settle a claim.”