PMI CVC Certification News - January 2008

Certification Update

Happy holidays to all!  This is my last article for the Chapter Newsletter as your VP Certification.  Going into 2008 Kristen Baker will take over the leadership of the Certification programs at PMI CVC.

Updates on credentials:

PMI CVC offers workshops for the attainment of both the PMP and CAPM credentials.  Most active PMI members are aware that there is now a PgMP (Program Mangement Professional) credential that went “live” on 10/1/07.  There were 31 PgMPs that came out of the pilot program.  While the Chapter is not currently planning a workshop of the same flavor as the PMP workshop, the opportunity may be there to provide a short seminar conducted by a firm from outside the Chapter.  If that is something of interest, make sure you let the Board know thorugh the VP Certification at vp.certification@pmicvc.org!  There are materials starting to show up in bookstores to help prep for this credential, but as you can see below, it’s a whole lot more than just a test.

A note on credential handbooks – PMI has stopped producing hard copies of these booklets.  You can find .pdf versions at the link mentioned below.

PgMP Process:

The PgMP Certification is not like the PMP and CAPM processes.  First of all, the cost of the credential is $1,500.  That is significantly higher than the PMP and CAPM.  Second, the process is substantially different.  The first step is an application process, followed by an exam, and completed with a 360-assessment from up to 12 names that the candidate submits.  Interestingly, as I mentioned above, there were 31 PgMPs that came out of the pilot program.  There were approximately 50 who made it to the assessment – and as you can see about 20 failed there!  More detailed information and the credential handbook is available at the PMI Global website at: http://www.pmi.org/CareerDevelopment/Pages/Our-Credentials.aspx.

New Credentials:

Some of you may be aware that PMI is introducing two new credentials next year: one for Project Risk and one for Project Scheduling.  The new credentials were in response to market demand and a global research study.  They are currently in development.  Keep checking PMI and PMI CVC websites for more information in the coming months.

Parting Shots:

2007 was a great year for PMI CVC and the Certification program.  We did win the award for PMI Professional Development Program of the Year for Components.  We also held 2 successful workshops attended by 42 students and PMPs.  Don’t forget that you can attend the workshop for PDUs.  Your Certification Committee is a vibrant group of committed volunteers who really make the whole thing possible.  Please accept my thanks for the opportunity to serve this Chapter for two years on the Board – and best wishes for a successful year in project management in 2008.  And if you’re trying to decide whether to “go for it” this year – do it!  PMBOK 4th Edition is coming fast!

Cliff Vaught, PMP
VP, Certification