Mr Colturi Talk PM Career Opportunities

Summary

Mark Curri shares insights from his 35-year career in program management and technology consulting. He discusses the evolution of project management, emphasizing the importance of staying updated with technology and tools, such as Microsoft Project, Agile certifications, and project life cycles. He provides practical advice on entering the job market, stressing the value of preparation, networking, and mentorship. Mark highlights the significance of soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, in interviews, and offers reflections on how foundational technical skills have shaped his career. His experience offers valuable guidance for aspiring program managers and job seekers.

Takeaways

• 😀 Program management has evolved significantly, with technology and training playing a key role in project success.
• 😀 As a project manager, it's crucial to stay updated with technology and equip your team with the right skills and tools to succeed.
• 😀 Microsoft Project, Microsoft Teams, and Microsoft Vio are some of the most common tools used in project management.
• 😀 Being a program manager requires managing the entire project life cycle: initiation, planning, execution, and closure.
• 😀 The Program Management Professional (PMP) certification and Agile certifications are essential for program managers and often required by employers.
• 😀 Over-preparation is key for interviews: arrive early, have your questions ready, and ensure your resume and recommendation letters are in order.
• 😀 Employers value soft skills, particularly communication and teamwork, over academic perfection in job candidates.
• 😀 Networking is critical for career growth—strong relationships can open doors and provide business opportunities.
• 😀 Continuously learning and acquiring new skills is important, as training never truly ends, even after formal education.
• 😀 Mentors have played a major role in the speaker's career, providing valuable guidance and opening doors for new opportunities.
• 😀 Northern Virginia offers a robust job market driven by U.S. government contracts and consulting opportunities, making it a great place to start a career.

Q & A

What career path did Mark Curri follow before becoming a Chief Operations Officer?

Mark Curri started his career as an IT programmer and later transitioned into program management and business development roles. He spent 25 years at Booz Allen Hamilton and is now the Chief Operations Officer for MBA Consulting Services.

How has project management evolved over the years according to Mark Curri?

Project management has changed dramatically with advancements in technology and training. There is now a vast availability of collaboration tools, and project managers must stay current with technology to equip their teams with the right skills and tools for success.

What are some key tools and best practices that program managers should be familiar with?

Program managers should be familiar with tools like Microsoft Project, Microsoft Visio, Microsoft Teams, and others, as well as best practices for the project life cycle, including clear project initiation, planning, execution, and closure.

Why is certification in project management important?

Certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) and Agile certifications have become essential in many industries. They serve as qualifications for project managers, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge required for managing complex projects.

What advice does Mark Curri offer for entering the job market?

Mark advises students to be well-prepared for job interviews. This includes being early, dressing professionally, researching the company and interviewers, preparing thoughtful questions, and having examples of their academic and team project experiences.

How can students enhance their job prospects according to Mark Curri?

Students should focus on developing strong relationships and networking, continue learning new skills even after school, and seek mentors who can provide guidance and open doors for new business opportunities.

What role do mentors play in Mark Curri's career?

Mentors have been instrumental in Mark Curri’s career growth, helping him see challenges differently, fostering creativity, and introducing him to new business contacts.

What are employers looking for in candidates, according to Mark Curri?

Employers are often looking for strong soft skills, particularly the ability to communicate well and work effectively within teams. They are not focused on having a perfect academic record but on finding a good personality match.

Why is Northern Virginia a good place to start a career in program management?

Northern Virginia is a prime location for job opportunities, especially in consulting and government work. The US government and consulting firms in the region drive the local economy and provide numerous job opportunities.

What challenges do new job seekers face in the current market?

The pandemic has made it more challenging to enter the job market, but there are still plenty of opportunities, especially with potential turnover in federal agencies and new opportunities in government work.