Good afternoon and thank you for taking the time to converse with us today.
Could someone walk me through big picture what the value of PMI certifications are and where to start? I have only recently been introduced to the PMI and am trying to gather more detailed info.
-Where should someone perusing certification start?
-I understand there are required hours of project management required for certification. Do any PMPs with military experience have any insight on what kind of military jobs and positions could count towards those hours?
-Do these certifications and the knowledge obtained in their pursuit have benefit for fields outside project management?
Thank you for your time!
Cheers,
John
Answers
Hey John, thanks for your service!
I received my PMP several years ago and used some of my experience from the military to qualify for my years of experience. For types of experience, think about your time working on planning training events, operations, major logistic operations, managing major movements, or even events that took planning and management skills. All of these will apply.
To understand its value, take a look at career roles that you have interest in and see if these positions require project management or the PMP. If you look on USAjobs.gov, Glassdoor or LinkedIn, you can find position descriptions that should provide insight on the demand for PMP’s. Performing work for Federal clients will often require a PMP.
The best place to start is the PMI web site: https://www.pmi.org/
They have tools, training aids, and advice to start the process.
Outside of project management, I have seen positions in IT, systems engineering, senior management, business process improvement, and in manufacturing requiring the cert.
Best of luck in your pursuits!
John,
PMP=$$$ on the outside, definitely go for it.
As far as what military jobs translate well to project/program management, think of anything where you’re responsible for managing cost, schedule, and performance. Acquisitions jobs are exactly what PMI-type PM jobs are. Being a lead planner for a major exercise also translates well. Think fleet-level exercises where you’re managing an exercise budget (cost), platform scheduling (schedule), and the Master Scenario Event List (performance).
I agree with everything that Terry said. Your military experience absolutely can count for the PMP experience requirements. You may have done so already but be sure to check out the military section of PMI at: https://www.pmi.org/military.
The PMP is a good certification that translates well across industries. That being said it's biggest value in my opinion is opening doors to positions.
- John
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