Project management is seen as being important for all industries and organizations, and students who gain proficiency in this field can apply those skills across many careers.

Recognizing these trends, the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and the Project Management Institute (PMI) East Tennessee Chapter (ETPMI) have signed a memorandum of understanding to promote project management education, career development, and research.

Assistant Professor of Practice Floyd Ostrowski, ETPMI Vice President of Professional Development Stephanie Workman, and ETPMI Director of Academic University Outreach Nancy Burns met to discuss the agreement and determine aspects that would work best for students.

The partnership will provide opportunities for ETPMI chapter board members or representatives to speak with students in the classroom, forging a connection between students and professionals from local industries. The chapter will also furnish materials about local meetings and networking opportunities with members.

Students are invited to attend ETPMI monthly meetings and professional development sessions at a reduced cost, as participation in professional organizations provides a unique perspective into industry. It also encourages interactions with those who are working in similar fields and may help students understand the workplace environment.

More information can be found on ETPMI’s website. Interested professionals and students are welcomed to attend meetings, review opportunities, and register for events and membership.