In the world of project management, my career journey has been anything but linear. From starting in the nonprofit sector to transitioning into IT and finally becoming a business project manager, my path has been a dynamic and transformative one. Here’s a glimpse into my unique journey, fortified by over 25 years of experience managing multimillion-dollar projects in various countries, encompassing different project methodologies, and wearing diverse hats such as Director, Program Manager, and Senior Project Manager. This journey has enriched me with a treasure trove of experiences and invaluable lessons.

Chapter 1: The Nonprofit Beginnings

My journe y began in the heart of the nonprofit world, managing projects with a pro

found impact on communities in different countries. I had mastered the art of managing multimillion-dollar budgets, large teams, navigating through complex regulations, collaborating with diverse stakeholders, and adapting to constantly changing conditions. In these roles, I managed projects using various methodologies, including traditional Waterfall. The invaluable lesson here was the power of resilience and the ability to do more with less.

Chapter 2: Venturing into IT

The transition to IT project management was a leap into the unknown. It felt like learning a new language. I was now dealing with technical jargon, complex systems, and tight timelines, but I brought with me the wisdom of managing substantial projects across borders, this time utilizing Waterfall Agile, and Scrum methodologies. This phase taught me adaptability, which was crucial in the tech sector’s rapidly changing landscape. During this time, I had encountered numerous challenging project scenarios and had the flexibility to choose the right methodology to fit each unique project.

Chapter 3: Becoming a Business Project Manager

The move into the realm of business project management was a natural progression, empowered by a wealth of international experience and a diverse toolkit of project management methodologies. By now, I had a unique blend of skills, adaptability, and a passion for making a difference. In this space, I learned the value of strategic thinking and was able to apply the right methodology to the right project. I continue to learn and implement Waterfall, Agile and Scrum methodologies. By now I was equipped to lead initiatives that aligned with the company’s overarching goals and contributed to the bottom line.

Key Takeaways:

1. 1. Resilience and Versatility: My nonprofit days taught me to work under constraints and find creative solutions, and I carried these skills with me through my journey, applying them in Waterfall, Agile, and Scrum projects as needed.

1. 1. Adaptability: In the IT sector, the ability to adapt was crucial. I was adept at learning on the go, regardless of the project methodology.

1. 1. Learning on the Go: In IT, there is no room for complacency. With significant experience under my belt, I had mastered the art of learning on the go, of being open to new technologies and methodologies.

1. 1. Strategic Thinking: Business project management, fortified by my extensive experience, showed me the importance of thinking long-term and the value of selecting the right methodology for each project, ensuring they aligned with organizational goals.

1. 1. Passion for Learning: My journey, enriched by over two and a half decades of global project management experience, reaffirmed the importance of a passion for continuous learning in your career. Finding meaning in your work makes the journey worthwhile.

So, if you’re contemplating a career change or facing an unexpected twist in your path, remember that these diversions can lead to the most exciting destinations. Embrace the journey and share what traits have you found to be crucial in your project management? I look forward to being a part of yours, as a mentor and a fellow traveler on the road to learning project management.

#AgileMindset #ContinuousLearning #AgileTransformation #AdaptableLeadership #ProjectManagerLife #CareerJourney

Closing Thoughts:

My journey from nonprofit to IT to business project management, with experience managing large multimillion-dollar projects in different countries and utilizing a range of methodologies, has not only been about managing projects; it’s been a journey of personal growth and transformation. It’s a testament to the power of adaptability, learning, and resilience, and the capacity to apply the right methodology to the right project. I have learned that the skills I gained in one phase of my career can be applied in unexpected ways in another. It’s a reminder that your career is a dynamic, ever-evolving adventure, and every step, no matter how unconventional, has the potential to lead to new heights.

As I continue on this journey, I have found a new purpose: to mentor and guide early and mid-career project managers. With a wealth of experience behind me, I am passionate about passing on the knowledge and insights I have gained to help the next generation of project managers succeed. I firmly believe that mentorship can be a guiding light, helping others navigate their own unique paths in the world of project management.

So, if you’re contemplating a career change or facing an unexpected twist in your path, remember that these diversions can lead to the most exciting destinations. Embrace the journey, and I look forward to being a part of yours, as a mentor and a fellow traveler on the road to success.

My journey from nonprofit to IT to business project management, with experience managing large multimillion-dollar projects in different countries and utilizing a range of methodologies, has not only been about managing projects; it’s been a journey of personal growth and transformation. It’s a testament to the power of adaptability, learning, and resilience, and the capacity to apply the right methodology to the right project. I have learned that the skills I gained in one phase of my career can be applied in unexpected ways in another. It’s a reminder that your career is a dynamic, ever-evolving adventure, and every step, no matter how unconventional, has the potential to lead to new heights.

As I continue on this journey, I have found a new purpose: to mentor and guide early and mid-career project managers. With a wealth of experience behind me, I am passionate about passing on the knowledge and insights I have gained to help the next generation of project managers succeed. I firmly believe that mentorship can be a guiding light, helping others navigate their own unique paths in the world of project management. So, if you’re contemplating a career change or facing an unexpected twist in your path, remember that these diversions can lead to the most exciting destinations. Embrace the journey, and I look forward to being a part of yours as a mentor and a fellow traveler on the road to success.”

Aspiring Project Managers, this one is for you! 

Are you ready to take your project management career to the next level? The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is your ticket to success! Here are the latest requirements and changes you need to know about:

Experience Requirements: To be eligible for the PMP, you need either a 4-year degree (bachelor’s or equivalent) and 3 years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects, or a high school diploma (or equivalent) with 5 years of project management experience and 7,500 hours leading and directing projects.

PMP Exam Updates: The PMP exam content has evolved to reflect the changing landscape of project management. The exam now covers three domains: People, Process, and Business Environment. Make sure you study these areas thoroughly to ace the exam.

35 Contact Hours: As a PMP aspirant, you’ll also need 35 contact hours, which can be earned through training or education. These contact hours are a key requirement for PMP application submission and a valuable part of your preparation.

Study Resources: As you prepare for the PMP exam, be sure to dive into the PMP Exam Content Outline (ECO), the PMBOK Guide, and the Agile guide. These resources are available for free download if you’re a PMI member and are invaluable in your exam preparation journey.

Continuous Learning: To maintain your PMP certification, you’ll need to earn 60 PDUs (Professional Development Units) every three years. This ensures that you stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in project management.

Are you up for the challenge? The PMP is a prestigious certification that can open doors to new opportunities and elevate your career. Stay committed to your professional growth, and the rewards will follow. Best of luck to all the future PMPs out there! 

#PMP #ProjectManagement #Certification #CareerDevelopment #Agile #Hybrid #LinkedInLearning #ProfessionalGrowth #PMI