PMI Chapter Meeting Explores Career Advancement
Professionals, students, and project managers gather at Georgia Tech to participate in an engaging discussion on the value of professional development
The Project Management Institute (PMI) Atlanta chapter — which held its first official meeting at Georgia Tech in 1969 — returned to its birthplace when the organization recently reconvened at the Global Learning Center. The event allowed members to network and hear from Georgia Tech alumnus and Academic Program Director of Project Management Chris Carter, who earned his degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering in 2007 and later completed a Project Management Certificate in 2015. The event, “Designing a Career of a Lifetime,” centered around the key elements of career design and featured an informative Q&A discussion. Joe Sisto, project management instructor and chair-elect of PMI Atlanta’s 2025 Executive Board of Directors, moderated the event.
Carter, who works as chief engineer and executive general manager at Toyota, has 20 years of industry project management experience and a passion for developing people — he currently mentors 19 professionals. Key themes throughout the event included the value of lifetime learning and mentorships, as well as the importance of taking bold leaps and investing in yourself. Carter noted one of the best investments he had personally made was earning his degree from Georgia Tech. “As a young man, getting my education was life changing," he said. "I never imagined that I would do it again and again and again. I don’t think I’m ever going to stop.”
In addition to detailing his impressive professional trajectory, Carter shared actionable strategies for success, including a practical framework for career building. He discussed the three E’s of career design — experience, exposure, and education — and how these elements lead to success. The interactive presentation encouraged attendees to discover the desired look and function of their careers.
“Remember that one size doesn’t fit all. The three E’s exercise takes thought, time, and energy. It's ever evolving,” Carter added.
If you are passionate about leading teams, creative problem-solving, and driving project outcomes on time, consider exploring Georgia Tech’s Project Management training courses and certificates, which are taught by PMPs and ACPs. Our Project Management and AGILE Leadership Certificates will help you meet the education requirement and prepare for the PMP or PMI-ACP exams.
