Monthly Newsletter April 2025: Your Conference Guide!

04/27/2025

As we step into April and the second quarter of the year, many of us are navigating an increasingly uncertain economic landscape.

With shifting markets, organizational changes, and evolving workforce dynamics, it's a time when resilience, adaptability, and connection matter more than ever. For project professionals, these challenges can feel daunting—but they also present an opportunity to come together, share knowledge, and support one another in meaningful ways.

That’s why we’re especially looking forward to this month’s PMI Portland Annual Conference on April 25th. It's a chance to gather as a community, hear from experts across industries, and explore the tools and mindsets we need to lead effectively through change. From emerging technologies to people-first leadership, this year’s lineup is designed to meet the moment we’re in.

While general admission is officially sold out, we’ve opened a waiting list in case of last-minute cancellations. If you haven’t registered but still hope to attend, be sure to add your name.

Whether you’re focused on upskilling, looking for inspiration, or simply seeking connection during uncertain times, we hope this month’s newsletter provides a helpful touchpoint. We’re glad you’re here.

PMI Speakers

Date: April 25, 2025
Location: The Ecotrust Building, Portland, OR

Our biggest event of the year is officially SOLD OUT, but there’s still a chance to attend. We’ve opened a waiting list in case of cancellations.

Join us for a day of learning, connection, and practical tools for navigating today’s dynamic project landscape. From emerging technologies to essential soft skills, this conference is designed to expand your toolkit and recharge your leadership mindset.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE WAITLIST

Session Highlights

Curtis Milander – Navigating the Changing Landscape of Project Management
PDU: 1.0 | Talent Triangle: Business Acumen
Curtis opens the day with a big-picture look at how AI, automation, hybrid work, and shifting stakeholder expectations are redefining our roles as PMs. He’ll draw on the ADKAR® Model to offer strategies for driving successful change initiatives, adapting to evolving team dynamics, and aligning project outcomes with organizational goals.

Naveen Gudigantala – AI & Data Analytics for Project Management
PDU: 1.0 | Talent Triangle: Business Acumen
AI is no longer a future trend—it’s already reshaping how we plan, track, and deliver projects. Dr. Gudigantala will guide us through the current landscape of AI tools, show how to assess project components for automation potential, and explore the ethical considerations PMs should be aware of. Expect a mix of academic insight and real-world applications.

Leslie Kainoa – Cybersecurity for Project Managers
PDU: 1.0 | Talent Triangle: Ways of Working
In a time when cyber threats can derail even the most well-planned project, PMs need to be part of the cybersecurity conversation. Leslie Kainoa will share actionable ways to integrate cybersecurity thinking into your project lifecycle—from risk identification and stakeholder awareness to incident response planning.

Demet Tuncer – Charismatic Communication
PDU: 1.0 | Talent Triangle: Power Skills
Whether presenting to executives or motivating your team, how you show up matters. With a background in theater and training global business leaders, Demet will walk us through her "5 Banks and a Master Key" model for unlocking authentic, compelling communication. This session will challenge you to tap into your presence and connect more meaningfully.

Sterling Shury – Avoiding Burnout with a Change-Ready Culture
PDU: 1.0 | Talent Triangle: Ways of Working
Organizational change often comes with stress and resistance—but it doesn’t have to lead to burnout. Sterling draws on his experience building agile teams at Smartsheet to offer tools for fostering psychological safety, recognizing burnout signals, and building an environment where teams can thrive through change.

Amber McMillan – The Power of Relationships: Mentorship & Upskilling
PDU: 1.0 | Talent Triangle: Power Skills
Career growth isn’t a solo journey. Amber shares insights from her popular blog and coaching work to help you identify mentors, become a great mentee, and create a culture of continuous learning. You’ll leave this session with fresh perspective on how connection and curiosity fuel professional resilience.

Don’t Miss Out
For full session details, speaker bios, and to join the waiting list, visit:
www.pmi-portland.org/annual-conference

Questions? Contact us at info@pmi-portland.org

We look forward to welcoming you for a day of inspiration, innovation, and community.

Feeling stuck on a project challenge? Need fresh perspectives from peers who get it? Our Roundtables offer just that—and more!

Each month, project managers from all over the Portland-Vancouver area come together to share, learn, and problem-solve in an open, welcoming environment. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, you’ll find the conversations engaging and insightful, with topics chosen by you and your peers. No two meetings are ever the same, and you’ll gain new tips, strategies, and perspectives to tackle your toughest challenges.

Here’s why you should join us:

It’s Real Talk: No scripted presentations. Just real discussions about what’s happening in your day-to-day projects.
No Membership Required: Anyone can attend! Whether you're a Chapter member or not, you’re welcome.
Earn 1 PDU: Yep, you read that right. Get 1 Professional Development Unit just for participating.
All Levels Welcome: We have a mix of junior and senior PMs, so no matter where you are in your career, you’ll fit right in.
Dynamic Discussions: From troubleshooting specific project issues to diving into prearranged topics, our format keeps things fresh and engaging.

Want to be in the loop? Subscribe below to stay updated on Roundtable schedules, changes, and special events. You won’t want to miss these monthly meetups!

I'M INTERESTED!

PMI Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer with Us: Make a Difference and Grow Your Career!

Looking to level up your career while making a real impact? Volunteering with PMI Portland is your perfect opportunity to do both! Whether you want to gain leadership experience, expand your network, or just give back to our incredible community, there’s a role for you.

Why Volunteer?

Boost Your Resume: Gain hands-on leadership and project management experience.
Expand Your Network: Connect with other passionate professionals across industries.
Make a Difference: Help shape the future of our chapter and make a lasting impact in our community.
Earn PDUs: Stay on top of your certifications while doing meaningful work.

Open Volunteer Roles Include:

Director of Volunteers
Director of Corporate Outreach
Director of Events
And More!

No matter your skill set or availability, there’s a spot for you to shine! Ready to take the next step? Click below to explore our open roles and get involved.

Let’s work together to build a stronger, more connected PMI Portland community!

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