Name: Olen Jay Bailey
Current Company: United States Army Reserve
Curent Position: Senior Rail Operations Manager
With what service of the military are/were you affiliated? United States Army Reserve
How long did you serve? Currently serving (18 years). I am projected to retire on 15 October 2030.
How did you hear about and become involved in PMI?
I first heard about PMI through the Army’s Cool program which offers service members training in civilian certifications and career paths that directly relate to your Military Occupational Specialty. I spoke with a mentor that had transitioned out of the Army and is currently a Senior Project manager within the Department of Defense. He mentioned that a great way to learn and continue contributing to my community would be joining a local PMI Chapter.
What advice do you have for current or past military members who want to pursue a career in project management?
The first thing I recommend to anyone is to find a mentor within the project management field in an industry that you might be interested in. Before meeting with that mentor, do your own research on things that you can find answers to on your own. Prioritize questions that you have and keep them focused on your specific outcomes and what you’d like that mentor to help you with. Overall use your military experience, get involved within your local community, learn and understand the PMI framework, and start applying it to your career inside and outside of the military. The military teaches us to solve complex problems and deliver results in an ever-changing environment, translate those skills, and continue to grow.
