blazing a new it project management career
IT project management is no easy undertaking, but in the context of the university, it presents a uniquely complex challenge. The introduction of IT project management methodology in to an academic culture, a culture of technology cowboys and free spirits, is no small task and might even be considered cultural heresy or simply complete madness. I had been in the role of computer lab support and management for nearly eight years and had managed projects in the form of new computer lab set-ups and upgrades. These projects would include managing everything from electrical and networking layouts, furniture layouts including ADA compliance, lighting, and then the technology selection, installation, and configuration. With a change of leadership in our division, new career opportunity presented itself and so I made the change in my professional path to learn about project management. I had the transferable skills, the designated trail guides, a readiness to navigate the complex-terrain of IT project management, and a complete belief that this was a well-charted and safe trail to take. This paper and presentation is about one person's early journey on the professional trail of project management. My manager and I will share experiences, lessons learned, tips to for navigating bumpy roads, and reflections and suggestions for anyone who finds himself or herself on a similar path.
project management learning