Description: In physics and engineering education, Fermi problems require solutions based on good approximate calculations with little or no actual data, involving making justified guesses and deducing bounds without using sophisticated tools. The idea of Fermi problems are of particular relevance to today's actuaries, as pricing, reserving, and financial reporting involve more and more complex stochastic components. The paper discusses some approximate solutions developed in academia in the spirit of Fermi problems.

Description: This newsletter column by the Modeling Section Chair reflects on his attendance at the 2015 Actuarial Research Conference in Toronto and the relationships between practicing actuaries in industry and those in academia, and specifically those involved in research. How can we help promote academics research that is effective and relevant for practical use? Hopefully the Modeling Section might facilitate that effort.