Name: Rob Kurtz Title: Sr.Program Manager Organization: World Wide Technology (WWT)
1) With what service of the military are/were you affiliated?
United States Air Force
2) How long did you serve?
20 years, 7.5 active duty, 12.5 Reserve
3) How did you hear about and become involved in PMI?
I attended an AFCEA (Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association) luncheon at Scott AFB while on active duty. The presentation involved a panel of speakers discussing the different technical certifications available: Microsoft, Cisco, etc. One of the panelists spoke about the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and the experience required to qualify to sit for the exam. As a communications officer, most of the requirements the panelist spoke about sounded a lot like the experience I had gained in the Air Force. Upon talking with the gentleman after the meeting, he confirmed my experience would, indeed, qualify me for the PMP exam. Over the next 8 weeks, attended a PMP Boot Camp course and passed the PMP exam. At that point, I had a fresh perspective on how to manage projects and was immediately able to bring PMI’s methodology back to my active duty role to deliver communications initiatives more successfully with less budget and more reliable timelines while managing risks. I finally had answers to many project challenges during my Air Force career and realized my calling was to utilize this new skill set to embark on a new career as a project manager.
4) What advice do you have for current or past military members who want to pursue a career in project management?
Many active duty, retired, and veteran members don’t realize what counts as project management experience. Many of the skills learned in the armed forces relate closely to project management. If you are passionate about making a difference, keeping teams focused, and delivering value, find a mentor. Talk to someone within the chapter to learn more about a project management career and the PMP exam. Volunteer for roles within the chapter that will give you relevant project management experience.
