Career Outlook
When you hear the term “project manager,” the words leader, communicator, detail-oriented, cheerleader, organized, motivated, flexible, responsible, good with numbers, and on the ball probably come to mind. Does this sound like you, or, for that matter, like most of your fellow veterans?
It is precisely those qualities that put you weeks away from securing a high-value, high paying job in just about any company. The median salary for a project manager in the United States is well over $100k, and the demand for people with related skills will only continue to accelerate. Veterans are a particularly good fit for project management An abundance of opportunities
Those flexible job titles and teaching and consulting opportunities can make the opportunities for project management seem endless, especially compared to other less diversified career paths. The opportunities might not actually be endless, but keep in mind how wide you can cast your net when looking for project management opportunities: You can find positions in information technology (IT), health care, financial services, education, manufacturing, new product development, urban development, engineering, construction, administration, and government, just to name some. That’s not to say project management in one field is identical to another. However, you do have a plethora of industries that need project managers, and as you begin to think about pursuing this field, consider what area you see yourself in so you can begin to build the right experience. |
That’s not to say project management in one field is identical to another. However, you do have a plethora of industries that need project managers, and as you begin to think about pursuing this field, consider what area you see yourself in so you can begin to build the right experience.
A plethora of skills One reason project management is found in so many industries and that the role is in high demand boils down to one thing: skills. The project manager works with a number of individuals toward an end goal, and is tasked with keeping the team on task and within a budget. He or she must communicate well with a variety of people: from business leaders to construction teams, keeping in mind the message may vary depending on the audience. For example, he or she must manage the expectations and keep executives in the loop (depending on the amount of communication and reporting appropriate for that project), while communicating effectively with all members of the project team. Project managers are team leaders who have to communication with all levels of management and clients both internally and externally. You need great communication, business acumen, critical thinking skills, and so much more. Your education can help you build that foundation so you become the project manager that employers trust representing the company. Remember that you control your education. It’s more than simply taking tests; it’s about building the skills and knowledge that will lead you toward your career goals. Look at the course selections in your school’s project management program and talk with your career services department to learn more about steps for finding internships, volunteer opportunities or job openings in your desired field. |
Career Launch Programs
Prepare for an entry-level job as a project manager. In this program, you’ll learn how project managers successfully start, plan, and execute a project using both traditional and agile project management approaches.
This is for you if you enjoy solving problems, working with people, and organization. The median annual wage for project managers is $61,000. |
Program Resources and Support
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This program requires a nominal tuition, which may be reimburseable through programs such as VR&E
*Source: www.pmi.org Resources for veterans: http://www.vets2pm.com/ |
Program Resources and Support
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