A Year of Mentorship with PMI Mile Hi: Why It’s Always a Two-Way Project
This year, I had the opportunity of being selected as a mentor with the PMI Mile Hi Chapter — and like any great project, the value wasn’t just in the deliverables, but in the journey.
When I signed up to mentor, I expected to offer guidance on project management fundamentals, career navigation, and leadership skills. What I didn’t expect was how much I would gain in return.
From learning about new technologies and AI tools to seeing fresh approaches to stakeholder engagement, agile thinking, and career growth, every conversation expanded my own toolkit. My mentees reminded me that the best project plans are living documents — flexible, curious, and always improving.
The PMI mentoring program operates like a well-run project portfolio:
Clear, well-defined goals that keep every milestone on track
Agile thinking that embraces change and continuous improvement
Strong, transparent communication that ensures alignment and clarity
Regular check-ins that maintain momentum and accountability
A wealth of lessons learned that refine our approach (especially in testing out new tech tools!)
Most importantly, it creates genuine connection — not just networking, but meaningful collaboration that strengthens the project management community and drives real impact.
As I look ahead to 2026, I’m excited to continue mentoring and also to find a mentor of my own. Because leadership isn’t a final milestone — it’s an ongoing process of learning, listening, and growing.
Grateful Wrap-Up
To my 2 incredible mentees — thank you for your curiosity, your courage to ask bold questions, and your openness to trying new tools and approaches. You stretched my thinking, introduced me to fresh technologies and AI insights, and reminded me that the best project managers never stop learning.
And to PMI and the PMI Mile Hi Chapter — thank you for keeping this mentoring program alive and thriving. Programs like this are the heartbeat of our profession, turning theory into real leadership and connection.
Here’s to shared milestones, meaningful lessons learned, and a community that invests in people, not just projects.