Why We Joined WOPM

The industry of project management is not for the faint of hearts. Each day we are challenged with ensuring teams are on staying true to deliverables, that leadership understands the level of progress being made and budgets ranging from a few thousands to billions remain within goal. These are just a few of our career driven duties. Due to the ever evolving work, having a network of leaders in the same industry makes the journey even more rewarding.

Here at The PM Suite each of us are members of Women of Project Management founded by Asya Watkins. Not only has this network been a great resource for career development, but also expanding our network globally. Quite honestly, this small but mighty team wouldn’t be here to day had it not been for Women of Project Management.

Here are three perspectives of why we joined Women of Project Management:

Elexis
Growing up, my father was an “unofficial” project manager. When he got home from work he would tell me stories of successful woman project managers that he would meet; and I would glow. Seeing women in unconventional roles was out of my norm. The dream of being a business woman, without knowing any was difficult. I decided to become a project manager and be the role model I so longed for. I found WOPM by Googling, “Women Project Managers”. Without knowing it, joining WOPM changed my career for the better. I have met so many role models across many fields. I am so grateful for this community. They have provided me with the support I needed. Plus, I now have friends in other states!

Nicole
When I first came across this network it was The Smart PMP. Instantly, I knew I had stumbled across a gold. At the time I had not seen a woman share project management tips in an informational yet relatable way. Who knew it would turn into a community I would grow to love. I was seeking guidance in project management as I was navigating in my career. It was refreshing seeing a young, black woman in the space discussing the ebbs and flows of project management. I had only seen less than a handful of groups try and not really hit the mark at highlighting women in this industry.

This organization has grown tremendously since inception and I’ve enjoyed being a part of the journey. I have made some amazing connections and lifetime friends. I have maintained my membership because I always gain gems from the women involved.

Whenever I need help I know I can easily review the directory, contact a member and get the needed information within a few days. Not only that, but I have been able to share my own knowledge to help other women in the network. I was a part of the Seat at the Table talk with Asya and a few other leaders, as well as join The Rebirth launch as speaker for one of the courses. It is such a reward to guide others to their destination.

Finally, this network has allowed for the growth of The PM Suite. Elexis and Marie are true rockstars and I am super glad our paths crossed. I cannot say enough great things about Women of Project Management.

Marie 
Have you ever looked around a room and wondered why no one there looked like you? Have you ever wondered whether anyone on your project team would be your ally if you needed someone to have your back on a deadline or idea? 

Yeah, me too. 

A few years ago, I was brand new to an organization after leaving a work environment where I was the only woman in the company. To put it lightly, I was desperate to have women in my circle. And not because I couldn’t “hang” with the boys. I knew I needed to learn from women in my field who have had the same experiences. I needed to learn from women who were navigating the intricacies of project life and moving their way through organizations deftly. 

On the first day of my new job, I breathed a sigh of relief when I looked around and saw that there were other women in my organization. I also knew I wanted to keep my horizons and outlook broad. I sat at my new desk with my newly issued company laptop and googled “Project Manager Women Group.” Up popped Women of Project Management. I clicked the link and scrolled through the website. Within fifteen minutes of that search, I had signed up for a membership and messaged Aysa. 

“I am so glad to have found this group of women!!!” I told her (complete with emojis, to be sure). 

And I have been blessed by the Women of Project Management organization ever since. I truly believe in the power of each woman and in the magnification of that power when women gather together. I have made dear friends and been sharpened by the skills of the great women that surround me. I am eager to continue learning from the Women of Project Management and look forward to seeing each woman thrive.

Join Women of Project Management today!

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