PMP: How new generation engineers and developers can jumpstart their careers
Projects are a universal term in the business world. To make these projects successful, you can use a PMP certification as a developer or engineer. Professional growth is essential in today’s competitive environment, especially in the tech sector. Although Project Management Professional Certification is not the most important certification for programmers and engineers, it is certainly beneficial for those who are eager to move ahead. Victor Carter-Bey, spokesperson for the Project Management Institute, stated that “Project management is in itself similar when you consider a project as a temporary undertaking that’s used to create a new product, or an offering”. He added that “it’s very aligned with engineering and development from that perspective because it’s all based on the creation of products.” A study by the same Project Management Institute revealed that approximately 15.7 million jobs in management will be created worldwide through 2020. Because IT is one of the fastest growing sectors today, PMP certified people would earn 16 percent more than their peers without the certification. According to PMI sources there are very few requirements to obtain a PMP certification. It is necessary to have either a secondary degree (high-school diploma, associate’s or global equivalent) that has at least five years of experience in project management, with at least 7,500 hours of project leadership and 35 hours project management education, or a four-year degree (bachelor’s degree or global equivalent) that has at least three years of experience in project management, with at least 4,500 hours of project leading and directing, and 35 hours project management education. After the application has been approved, applicants have up to 12 months to complete the multiple-choice exam. It consists of 200-question questions. This exam can be taken up to three times per year. The successful completion of this certification exam demonstrates that the applicant can successfully navigate the various phases of project development and implementation. Non-PMI members pay $555, while members pay $405. The total cost of Course preparation and other costs may be higher than the exam fees. Some employers may also agree to pay the certification costs for their employees. Why is it so important to choose the PMP route? Matt Brosseau (CTO of Instant Alliance, Director of recruitment) stated that “Almost every software development or maintenance project will follow a project cycle.” This means that no matter what industry it may be, it is crucial for projects to be completed within the constraints and circumstances. Global Knowledge’s Kirsten Lora stated, “It’s a set of practical methods to help identify the scope and then an effective management to ensure that the work is completed correctly, on-time, and within your budget.” If you’re still wondering what the future holds for programmers and engineers currently in these roles, the idea is not to move to project manager. You will not automatically be qualified for this role if you only have the certification. If you do have the PMP certification, however, you will be considered for an upper-level position.