A Word about PMI Membership, by Mark Cohen, Eugene PMI President

My PMI membership has already proven to be a very rewarding experience. I have been with PMI since 2005 and a volunteer for the branch for the last two years. To me, the true test of value is in how well something influences my family financial position, my professional (and personal) knowledge base and my self-confidence. Yes, being truthful, in that order of priority. If I am going to devote my time to something (time away from my personal and family time), it is primary that it benefits my family financially. Since joining PMI and obtaining my PMP, I have seen career rewards come in the form of new strategic-level responsibilities and through the enhanced growth of my organizational sphere-of-influence. As a direct result, a promotion quickly followed. The knowledge I gained through the study of PMI’s framework and though the achievement of a PMP Certification has certainly proven its positive return on my investment. This change is a positive ROI that not only provided short-term benefits but will be with me the rest of my career. As well, being a volunteer in the Eugene Branch has helped to increase my self-confidence. While I have always made a best effort at speaking to large groups and networking in professional forums, it has never been something rooted in my comfort zone.  The engagement with the Eugene branch has provided a way to exercise these skills until they have now become more comfortable. I look forward to each meeting and the chance to network with other PM colleagues. I welcome the interaction and I am, slowly, becoming less nervous about the interactions. In closing, what does my PMI membership mean to me? It means growth and opportunity. I encourage anyone else that has also felt a positive influence from their membership to post here. Given my new outlook on networking, I also welcome a conversation in person. See you at the next meeting!

-- Mark Cohen