2025 Board of Director Candidate Profiles

I am excited to express my interest in serving on the Board of Directors for the PMI Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter for the 2025-2028 term. My passion for project management, coupled with my commitment to advancing our profession and supporting fellow members, drives me to contribute to the continued growth and success of our chapter. With years of experience in strategic consulting and a focus on organizational change and enterprise solutions, I am confident that my skills and insights will positively impact the chapter and its members.

Throughout my career, I have worked extensively in transformational consulting, leading diverse projects that drive value and improve organizational effectiveness. My role as a Senior Digital Transformation Advisor has afforded me a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in today’s rapidly evolving project management landscape. I am skilled at navigating complex stakeholder environments, fostering collaboration, and delivering projects that enhance business outcomes. I believe these experiences have equipped me with the strategic vision and hands-on expertise required to support the PMI OVOC's goals effectively.

In addition to my consulting experience, I am an active member of the project management community. I understand that PMI is a vital resource for professional development, and I am eager to help our chapter continue to provide high-quality programs and networking opportunities that support our members' growth. My goal is to work closely with our members and fellow board members to create an inclusive, dynamic environment where every project management professional feels supported and inspired.

If elected, my focus areas will be threefold: member engagement, professional development, and community impact. First, I aim to enhance member engagement by creating new avenues for interaction, feedback, and collaboration, ensuring that our members have a strong voice in shaping the chapter’s direction. Second, I would like to expand our professional development offerings, with an emphasis on addressing emerging trends in project management, such as digital transformation and change management, ensuring our members are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a digital-first world. Finally, I am committed to increasing our community impact by fostering partnerships with local organizations, educational institutions, and other PMI chapters, which I believe will broaden our reach and deepen our contributions to the region.

I am motivated by the opportunity to serve and bring value to PMI OVOC and our members. I am excited about the chance to contribute to a vibrant, forward-thinking board that empowers project management professionals in Ottawa and beyond. I believe that through collaborative leadership, clear communication, and a steadfast focus on member needs, we can create a thriving chapter that continues to be a beacon of professional excellence.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute my energy, experience, and dedication to the PMI Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter Board of Directors.

I am delighted to express my interest in serving on the Board of Directors for PMI OVOC. My deep commitment to our chapter's mission, combined with my extensive leadership background, positions me uniquely to contribute to our community’s growth and success. As the Program Lead for the chapter, I am currently spearheading the planning for PMEVOLVE 2024, which is set to be one of the most significant PMI events in our region, scheduled for November 7th to 9th, I am indeed, well prepared to bring strategic vision and collaborative leadership to the board.

In my role as Program Lead, I have overseen the development of initiatives that significantly enhance our members' professional experiences. By fostering a culture of inclusive learning and collaboration, I ensure that our programs not only meet but exceed member expectations, thereby increasing engagement and participation. This experience provides a solid foundation for contributing strategically at the board level.

Leading PMEVOLVE 2024 has been a rewarding challenge. My role in planning this monumental event involves managing cross-functional teams and collaborating with industry leaders to create an agenda that inspires and informs. This has reinforced my project management expertise and highlighted my ability to lead complex initiatives. It's a testament to my capability to deliver high-impact, large-scale projects successfully.

Academically, I hold a Master of Science in Project Management, complemented by a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management. These qualifications, alongside my Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB), underscore my comprehensive understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of project management.

In the aviation industry, my tenure as Head of Corporate Strategy, Planning, and PMO at Oman Airports showcased my skills in strategic foresight and stakeholder management. Similarly, at NAV CANADA, I spearheaded transformational projects, fostering environments where innovation and teamwork flourished. These experiences align seamlessly with PMI OVOC's goals of fostering excellence and growth.

On a personal note, joining the Board represents an opportunity to give back to the project management community that has been crucial in my professional journey. PMI OVOC has offered invaluable resources and connections, and I am eager to contribute to its legacy by amplifying the diverse voices within our chapter. As a board member, I would champion transparency, inclusivity, and sustainable innovation, ensuring our chapter not only meets contemporary challenges but thrives beyond them.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I am enthusiastic about the potential to contribute my skills and passion to our PMI OVOC community and look forward to the possibility of working alongside fellow board members to achieve our shared vision.

Why I'm Applying

First and foremost, I am drawn to PMI’s core principles, which closely align with my own professional philosophy. The opportunity to serve in roles such as VP Strategy, VP Finance, or VP Professional Development is particularly compelling, as they would allow me to leverage my strategic planning, project management, finance, and analytical skills to help shape the future of the chapter. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to an organization that has had such a significant and enduring impact on our region and beyond.

Secondly, I believe strongly that an organization’s success is driven by the quality of its people. I am eager to collaborate with like-minded, high-calibre professionals in the Ottawa Valley Outaouais chapter. Together, we can execute strategic initiatives that support the chapter’s vision of becoming the premier platform for project management in Ottawa, Outaouais, and Eastern Ontario. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to foster a culture of collaboration and innovation that will enable the chapter to thrive in the years ahead.

Lastly, I see this as an opportunity to broaden my experience by working with a diverse group of stakeholders in a multifaceted organization. The three roles mentioned earlier are a natural fit for my background and expertise. I am passionate about setting strategic goals, identifying new opportunities, and developing comprehensive plans to achieve them. With over 20 years of experience in strategy, finance, and my commitment to lifelong learning and development, I am confident in my ability to make meaningful contributions in these areas.

What I Bring to the Table

I am deeply committed to adding value to the chapter and supporting its long-term success. In particular, I will bring:

 - Relationship Building: My extensive international experience and multilingual abilities will allow me to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, better understand their needs, and design solutions that address those needs.
 - Creative Problem Solving: Drawing on my broad knowledge across industries and a commitment to lifelong learning, I will bring fresh perspectives to the table and apply best practices to develop innovative solutions. For example, in a recent engagement, I helped MPAC transition to a more effective investment management model, positioning funds for stronger growth and ensuring retirees receive their promised benefits.
 - Value Creation: I am driven by a desire to create tangible results. As part of a financial advisory team, I contributed to a strategic initiative that increased the value of a business venture by 15%, demonstrating my ability to deliver measurable impact.

Past Volunteer Experience

My volunteer experience has also well-prepared me for this role. Over the years, I have had the privilege of holding several leadership positions, including:

 - VP Finance, Rotary Club (7 years)
 - Committee Chairman, American Chamber of Commerce (6 years)
 - Program Committee Member, FEI Canada (1 year)

These roles have strengthened my ability to collaborate with diverse teams, navigate complex challenges, and manage financial and strategic initiatives. They have also deepened my commitment to community and service—values I look forward to bringing to PMI’s Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter.

Conclusion

In summary, my decision to apply for the Board of Directors of PMI’s Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter is driven by my alignment with the chapter’s values, my desire to engage with a community of dedicated professionals, and my eagerness to leverage my experience to help the chapter achieve its strategic goals. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the chapter’s continued success and growth, and I am confident that my leadership and expertise will help propel the chapter to new heights.

I work as a Project Manager with the Project Management Office at Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC), and I want to help grow the project community in the Ottawa Valley Outaouais region.

In my previous position as an Ambulance Communications Officer for the last six years in two provinces, what I loved most was that I was able to help my community in their time of need. I had to keep a cool head during stressful medical emergencies and ensured that the caller was provided with the right information to best help the situation. When I was not taking emergency medical calls, I was dispatching ambulances over six different counties with their own deployment directives and plans that I needed to be familiar with to ensure community ambulance coverage was established quickly and accurately. I’m passionate about creating inclusive and equitable workplaces, so in 2022, I was selected to be on the KHSC’s inaugural Inclusion Steering Council, which helps advise and recommend inclusion policies, education and events at the hospital. I love helping my peers, and jump at the opportunity to help train new employees. In 2022, as I was asked to assist with a new call-taking program rollout at Mississauga CACC, where I coached and guided ACOs on the floor with their emergency call- taking. In 2023, I was voted by my peers to be a steward in our local union unit.

Community is very important to me, and I love finding ways to help grow and connect folks in my community through board work. In 2018 I co-founded the Canadian Homebrewers Association (CHA), a national non-profit organisation that promotes homebrewing in Canada. There were discussions about a need for a national homebrewing organisation, but previous groups before me had tried and failed to make it happen. I travelled to various homebrew clubs across the country and chatted with homebrewers to get a sense if this was an organisation that they wanted, and all across the country, it was a unanimous yes. We created a Kickstarter to raise initial funds to get the organisation started, and raised over ten times of our asking cost. Since then, we have helped connect homebrew club leadership through our quarterly club president meetings, as well as took over the running of a national homebrewing competition circuit.

In 2019, I joined the Shilo Military Family Resource Centre board where I contributed to the standardization and update to the Finance Policy, Procedure Manual and Children Services Policy, as well as a successful salary review which saw a raise to the staff’s salaries. In 2022, I advised on the lack of childcare access for military families with the Child Care Strategy focus group run by Military Family Services.

With my experiences working with numerous boards over the years, I believe that I have the passion, creativity and experience to excel as board member. I hope that I can be given the opportunity to help the organisation grow. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application.

I am excited to express my interest in serving on the PMIOVOC Board, driven by a deep passion for advancing the project management profession and a strong commitment to community empowerment. With over 13 years of experience spanning healthcare, aviation, and finance, I bring a wealth of knowledge as a value trader and a proven track record in managing complex projects, fostering partnerships, and driving transformative change. My recent role as Director of Sponsorship and Partnership at the PMEvolve Annual conference further reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration, strategic leadership, and purpose-driven service.

In my career, I have successfully navigated diverse environments, from implementing predictive analytical tools in healthcare to delivering value-aligned solutions for public and private organizations. These experiences have honed my ability to manage competing priorities, build strong stakeholder relationships, and execute strategic initiatives. I believe these skills will enable me to contribute meaningfully to the PMIOVOC Board’s mission of promoting excellence and fostering growth in the project management profession.

Serving as Director of Sponsorship and Partnership at the PMEvolve Symposium allowed me to witness firsthand the critical role project managers play in shaping outcomes that extend beyond project deliverables. By securing high-value partnerships and fostering relationships with industry leaders, I enhanced the symposium’s capacity to deliver impactful content and meaningful connections for attendees. This experience deepened my understanding of how sponsorships and partnerships can elevate organizational goals and underscored the importance of creating synergies that advance the project management discipline.

Beyond professional accomplishments, my dedication to mentorship and education fuels my desire to serve on the PMIOVOC Board. As the Chief Purpose Officer at The Purpose Temple, an initiative close and dear to my heart, I work tirelessly to guide individuals and organizations toward discovering and activating their unique purpose. This commitment extends to my current initiative of establishing a tech school in Nigeria, which aims to empower the next generation with critical skills and opportunities. I see a clear alignment between this mission and PMIOVOC’s emphasis on professional development and inclusivity within the project management community.

I am particularly inspired by PMIOVOC’s commitment to equipping members with tools to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape. If given the opportunity to serve, I aim to contribute by leveraging my skills in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and innovative problem-solving to enhance the chapter’s initiatives. My ability to ask critical questions, facilitate collaborative decision-making, and champion bold ideas will help drive sustainable growth and ensure PMIOVOC remains a hub for excellence.

Moreover, I bring a global perspective to the table, having worked with diverse teams and clients across different continents. I understand the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when managing projects in multicultural settings and can provide valuable insights to support PMIOVOC’s efforts to embrace diversity and inclusion.

Ultimately, my commitment to fostering impactful change and empowering others aligns seamlessly with PMIOVOC’s mission. I am eager to contribute to the board’s work in advancing the project management profession and supporting members in their pursuit of excellence. Serving on the PMIOVOC Board would be a privilege and an opportunity to give back to a community that has profoundly shaped my professional journey.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to PMIOVOC’s vision and mission.

I am excited about the opportunity to help shape the future of PMI OVOC and contribute to its long-term growth. My experience in project management and document control has taught me how to create efficient systems that improve workflows and align projects with clear goals. I enjoy using data to drive informed decisions, whether tracking project progress, analyzing results, or identifying opportunities for improvement. For instance, I developed dashboards and reporting systems that not only enhanced decision-making but also strengthened teamwork and accountability.

Collaboration is another area I am passionate about. I’ve worked closely with teams in engineering and construction and engaged with diverse stakeholders such as vendors and subcontractors. These experiences have taught me how to navigate differing perspectives, build consensus, and inspire others to achieve common goals.
If selected, I would propose a member engagement dashboard to track participation in chapter activities. This would help identify trends, allocate resources effectively, and design initiatives that address member needs, ensuring the chapter remains vibrant and valuable.

Ultimately, this role excites me because it combines my passion for strategic planning with my desire to contribute to a vibrant professional community. I’m eager to bring fresh ideas, practical solutions, and a results-driven approach to support PMI OVOC’s mission.

I am interested in serving on the Board of Directors of the PMI-OVO Chapter for three reasons; my commitment to serving the needs of the project management community; my passion for education, live-long learning and professional development and to provide strategic advice and leverage my professional networks to the benefit of the chapter. 

My commitment to community service:

Since achieving my PMP certification in February 2022, after more than three decades of project management across a dozen plus countries, I have participated actively in the chapters events where I learned first hand about the power and passion of the local PMI-OVO membership. I am consistently impressed by the drive and creativity the chapter leadership has demonstrated at the annual conferences and networking events. I want to contribute to this mission as a new board member. 

My passion for education, life-long learning and professional development:

I am a passionate educator and have taught project management to over 500 students to date and participated as a mentor in two cohorts of the PMI-OVO's mentorship program. I am a firm believer in life-long learning and professional development and would love the opportunity to help develop “ways and means” to further enhance the reach of the chapter in the area of mentorship programming. 

To provide strategic advice and leverage my professional network to benefit of the chapter:

At this stage in my career, it’s time to give back. 

Over the decades, I have developed a diverse and deep network of project management professionals which I would effectively leverage for the benefit of the chapter and its membership. Board discussions on strategy are a comfortable place for me and it would be an honor to have this opportunity in the event of my election to the board. 

I am the most qualified to serve on the Board of Directors for the following reasons:

• The depth and breadth of my professional network in the PM community across multiple sectors in Ottawa, Canada and internationally. 
• A proven leadership track record at Algonquin College as relates to mentorship programming and career counselling of students, graduates who comprise the next generation of project managers. 
• Strong project management and strategic thinking skills honed from over three decades of international and national project management roles in diverse project contexts.
• I have the passion, the available time and “bandwidth” required to be a successful PMI-OVO Board of Director member  of the PMI-OVO Chapter for three reasons; my commitment to serving the needs of the project management community; my passion for education, live-long learning and professional development and to provide strategic advice and leverage my professional networks to the benefit of the chapter. 

With over a decade of experience in strategy consulting and senior management roles, I am an ideal candidate for PMI Ottawa's chapter board, bringing a blend of practical project management expertise and strategic insight gained across diverse regions, including MENA, Africa, and Canada. My career reflects a dedication to elevating organizational capabilities, aligning innovative change strategies with broader business objectives, and implementing structured approaches to complex initiatives—skills that can greatly contribute to PMI Ottawa's mission of promoting best practices in project management.

In my role as a Senior Manager in Innovation and Change at Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), I drive initiatives focused on modernizing processes and enhancing operational efficiency, particularly within the housing and financial sectors. This experience has given me insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by public sector organizations in adopting transformative practices, an understanding I can share with PMI Ottawa's members who operate in similar sectors. Prior to my work at CMHC, I held a senior managerial position at Ernst & Young (EY) as a consulting leader, where I developed and implemented strategies for government entities and private sector organizations, focusing on policy reform, digital transformation, and organizational growth.

My background in project management spans a global spectrum, from North America to the MENA region and Africa. I have led cross-functional teams to execute high-impact projects funded by international donors, such as the World Bank and the African Development Bank, as well as numerous governmental programs. These experiences have equipped me with a nuanced perspective on managing projects in multicultural, multi-stakeholder environments—an invaluable asset for PMI Ottawa, where members frequently navigate similarly complex projects. My PMP certification further underscores my commitment to PMI's standards, enabling me to bring established methodologies to each project I oversee, ensuring efficiency, risk mitigation, and outcome optimization.

I am passionate about knowledge-sharing and believe that my experience can bring real value to PMI Ottawa’s community. As a board member, I would focus on advancing member engagement initiatives, particularly for professionals transitioning from traditional to more agile project management methodologies. I have firsthand experience helping organizations embrace change management and innovation, a priority for the chapter as more organizations prioritize agile and adaptive frameworks.

Additionally, I am keen to help foster PMI Ottawa’s relationship with key stakeholders and expand the chapter’s influence by building stronger connections with local government, academia, and industries with emerging project management needs, such as tech and sustainable development sectors. My experience leading advocacy for policy reforms at EY can be a valuable asset to the chapter’s goal of influencing best practices and industry standards within the project management community.

In summary, my broad experience, strategic mindset, and passion for project management make me a strong candidate for PMI Ottawa's board. I am dedicated to contributing meaningfully, enhancing the chapter’s impact, and supporting its growth as a premier resource for project management professionals in the Ottawa area.

I am excited to express my interest in serving as a board member for PMIOVOC. This role aligns perfectly with my passion for fostering professional growth, empowering project managers, and advancing our community's knowledge and skills. My experiences in education, project management, and community engagement have equipped me to contribute meaningfully to this position.

Inspiring a Passion for Learning

Serving as the Campus Capstone Coordinator during the recently concluded PMEvolve was a pivotal moment for me. Engaging with professional newcomers and guiding them on the value of certifications and project management principles reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of professional development. Witnessing their growth and enthusiasm fueled my drive to do more for our community and inspired me to pursue this leadership opportunity.

As a professor of project management at Lambton College and an IT Project Manager with over 10 year experience, I have developed and delivered education that bridges the gap between academic theory and industry practice. My experience positions me to design professional development programs that are both practical and relevant, ensuring members can apply what they learn to real-world challenges.

A Strategic Vision for Growth

I will focus on creating meaningful, innovative, and accessible opportunities for our members. My priorities will include:

 - Developing Comprehensive Programs: I aim to design a range of professional development initiatives, including workshops, seminars, and certification support, tailored to meet the diverse needs of our members—from newcomers to experienced professionals.
 - Collaborating with Experts: Partnering with industry leaders and educational institutions will ensure the quality and relevance of our offerings, aligning them with industry standards and emerging trends.
 - Promoting Certification and Recertification: I am passionate about helping members achieve and maintain certifications like PMP and other certifications they desire. I will work to make these opportunities accessible and support members in recognizing their value for career growth.
 - Continuous Improvement: By measuring program effectiveness through participation rates and satisfaction surveys, I will ensure our offerings remain impactful and evolve to meet member expectations.

A Commitment to Service

My dedication to service is rooted in my belief that professional development unlocks potential and drives growth. Over the years, I have cultivated a strong sense of responsibility to give back to the project management community that has supported me throughout my journey. Whether mentoring students, managing IT projects, or leading community initiatives, I have always prioritized helping others achieve their goals.

Why This Role Matters

Professional development is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about inspiring confidence, enabling career advancement, and building a stronger community. As VP of Professional Development, I will bring my expertise, enthusiasm, and commitment to creating an environment where every member has the tools they need to thrive.

In conclusion, I am eager to contribute my skills and passion to this critical role. Together, we can elevate PMIOVOC’s professional development programs and empower our members to achieve excellence. Thank you for considering my candidacy.

I have been a pmi ovoc member since 2013. I served as a social media volunteer and presenter at the 2016 National Capital Symposium

My project management work is in the IT area although I worked in the project management field for years prior.

I am a skilled business manager with financial acumen. I have also run for city council twice.

I am a published author and environmentalist. I have worked in the role of CEO and president before.

My personal interests Are quite varied and include travel, painting, cycling, cycle touring, whitewater kayaking, tennis, skiing, guitar and rv touring.

My social interests include social media, writing opinions, municipal politics, and environmentalism.

My blogs include:

https//: allaboutwhitewater.blogspot.com

https://peterkarwacki.blogspot.com

I am happy to apply for a position on the Board of Directors for PMI-OVOC, as I believe my extensive background in business, project management and learning and development will allow me to uniquely contribute to the chapter's strategic vision of being recognized for our commitment to innovation, collaboration and continuous growth. My passion for professional growth for not only myself but others, as well as for promoting project management practices, closely aligns with the mission of the PMI-OVOC of fostering a dynamic and inclusive community that drives innovation, supports growth, and enhances lives through project management excellence. With over 20 years of experience in project management, I have successfully led a variety of initiatives across multiple sectors, including telecommunications, technology, human resources and sales. My project management roles have involved everything from initial planning and risk assessment to execution and evaluation. I attained my PMP designation in 2006, and I have continuously sought to integrate best practices to improve efficiency and deliver value. This handson experience has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities that project managers face, enabling me to contribute valuable insights to the Board. In my capacity as a Learning and Development professional, I have designed, implemented and delivered training programs that not only enhance project management skills but also foster a culture of continuous learning within organizations. I believe that effective training and professional development are crucial for empowering project managers to excel in their roles. If there are any initiatives that focus on professional or personal development, I can be a strong asset in these areas. Furthermore, my collaborative approach has proven effective in building relationships with stakeholders at all levels. I understand the importance of communication and teamwork in achieving project success and organizational goals. By serving on the Board, I hope to leverage my ability to facilitate discussions and forge connections, ensuring that the voices of our members are heard and considered in decision-making processes. I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives contribute to the growth and evolution of our practices. I am at the point in my career where I want to continue growing, but also give back to the profession that has provided me with so much in my career. By serving on PMI-OVOC's Board, I hope to "pay it forward" by empowering those within the project management community to achieve their potential and career goals. I am committed to driving positive change and am eager to work alongside passionate individuals who share the vision of advancing our profession. Thank you for considering my application; I look forward to the opportunity to serve and contribute to our community.

I am excited to express my interest and desire to give back to an organization that has greatly contributed to my own professional success in serving on the Board of Directors for the PMI Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter 2025-28 term. With a strong background in project/program management and leadership, I believe I can bring a unique perspective and meaningful contributions to the board. My journey through various industries has allowed me to cultivate a holistic understanding of project management challenges and opportunities, and I am committed to leveraging that

experience to further the mission of PMI OVOC.

Having had the honor of serving as the Vice President of Memberships on the PMI OVOC Board from 2022 to 2023, I gained valuable insights into the chapter’s operations and the critical role it plays in supporting its members. I helped drive membership initiatives, provided leadership to assigned committees, and focused on fostering a community that is engaged and supported. This experience not only deepened my commitment to PMI OVOC but also reinforced my belief in the value of PMI

as a global leader in project management standards and practices.

As a certified PMP, PMI-ACP, and seasoned program manager, I have led complex, high-impact projects in public and private sectors ranging from Cybersecurity, Manufacturing, Information Technology, Defence, Telecommunications, and Oil and Gas. These roles have honed my ability to manage diverse teams, drive strategic initiatives, and ensure projects align with broader

organizational objectives. I have consistently demonstrated the capacity to translate complex challenges into actionable strategies, ensuring the successful delivery of projects in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.

One of the primary reasons I wish to serve on the board is my deep belief in the value of continuous professional development. PMI OVOC plays a pivotal role in providing project management professionals with the tools, resources, and community they need to excel in their careers. I am particularly passionate about expanding mentorship opportunities within the chapter. As someone who has benefited from mentoring relationships, both as a mentor and a protégé, I understand the profound impact they can have on career trajectories and professional growth. I would like to build upon PMI OVOC’s existing programs to enhance these opportunities and ensure that members at all stages of their careers have access to the guidance and support they need.

Furthermore, I aim to focus on strengthening the chapter’s engagement with emerging trends in project management and digital transformation. The project management landscape is rapidly evolving, and I believe PMI OVOC is well-positioned to lead in educating its members on these developments. As a future board member, I would advocate for more initiatives that bridge the gap between traditional project management practices and the skills required in an increasingly digital and agile world.

In conclusion, my goal as a board member is to ensure that PMI OVOC continues to provide unparalleled value to its members, supports their professional growth, and remains at the forefront of industry trends. I am committed to dedicating my time, energy, and expertise to advancing these goals, and I would be honored to contribute to the continued success of PMI OVOC.

With over 17 years of experience in Information Technology (IT) and as a current member of the board of directors for a non-profit organization in Ottawa, I bring a robust technical background and expertise in areas such as communications, IT operations, and project management. I have consistently taken on leadership roles throughout my career, guiding teams and spearheading IT initiatives across diverse industries and organizations. As my career evolves, I am eager to leverage my skills and experiences to contribute meaningfully to the Ottawa Valley Chapter.

My professional journey has equipped me with a comprehensive range of IT expertise, including managing network infrastructures, cloud technologies, applications, databases, and cybersecurity. I have been deeply involved in designing, implementing, and maintaining these systems, often while leading teams to provide support or deploy new systems and software. A hallmark of my approach is my ability to effectively manage multiple projects with competing priorities, ensuring that they are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with the strategic goals of the organization.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my career has been the opportunity to mentor and guide cross-functional teams. I have led diverse groups, collaborating with individuals from operations, sales, communications, and finance to identify inefficiencies and develop innovative IT solutions. By fostering an environment of open communication and collaboration, I have built cohesive teams capable of delivering outstanding results. My focus on mentorship has also helped colleagues grow their skills and advance within their careers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.

Beyond my professional achievements, I am deeply committed to volunteering and community involvement. In 2022, I joined the Board of Directors for Centrepoint Childcare Services, where I have been an active member of the Communications Committee. In this role, I contributed to developing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy as part of the organization’s broader strategic plan, which included strengthening network security and implementing a security awareness training program for staff. I also worked on creating a crisis communication plan to enhance organizational preparedness and have spearheaded initiatives to increase community engagement, including branding and outreach efforts.

Through my board experience, I have gained valuable insights into governance, strategic planning, and the importance of aligning technology initiatives with organizational goals. I have also developed a deep appreciation for the value of clear communication and effective collaboration among board members in driving results. These experiences uniquely position me to add value to the Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter, particularly in operations, marketing, and technology-driven initiatives.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Chapter’s ongoing success and growth. With my background in IT project management, experience with non-profit organizations, and passion for innovative solutions, I am eager to assist in enhancing marketing strategies, improving operational efficiencies, and supporting the Chapter’s initiatives. I look forward to the possibility of serving as a member of the Ottawa Valley Outaouais Chapter Board of Directors.

As a member of PMIOVOC since 2019 and currently serving as Director of Mentoring since 2023, I have had the privilege of contributing to the chapter’s growth and success. With my experience and passion for process improvement, I believe I am uniquely positioned to help elevate the chapter’s operational efficiency and effectiveness in the role of VP of Operations.

In my current role as Director of Mentoring, I have seen firsthand the impact of streamlined processes and a well-supported team. Under my leadership, the mentoring program has flourished, with measurable success in matching mentors and mentees and increasing engagement. I’m proud to have implemented systems that now allow us to provide applicable PDUs (Professional Development Units) to participants within a short turnaround time, making our programs more accessible and valuable to our members. This experience with improving processes and systems is something I would bring to the role of VP of Operations, ensuring that the chapter’s day-to-day functions are efficient, member-focused, and aligned with our long-term goals.

A key responsibility of the VP of Operations is to review performance data to monitor productivity and goal achievement. Over the years, I have developed strong skills in tracking and analyzing relevant data, such as event attendance, member engagement, and program participation. This data not only helps us make informed organizational decisions but also provides insight into areas that require attention and improvement. In the VP of Operations role, I would use these insights to refine our strategies, optimize resource allocation, and enhance the overall performance of our operational functions.

Additionally, my experience helping out with Marketing and Communications and Technology tasks has given me a comprehensive understanding of the chapter’s operational challenges. I have identified gaps in these areas and successfully implemented short-term solutions to address immediate needs. However, I recognize that the role of VP of Operations provides an opportunity to develop and implement more sustainable, long-term solutions to these challenges. I am committed to working collaboratively with other executive team members to drive these improvements and ensure that our chapter’s operations continue to evolve in a way that meets the needs of our members and supports our strategic goals.

In summary, I am eager to transition the successes I’ve had as Director of Mentoring into the role of VP of Operations. I am confident that my experience in process improvement, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration will allow me to contribute meaningfully to the chapter’s ongoing success. I look forward to the opportunity to lead our operations team and help achieve our chapter’s objectives in the coming years.