Presentation: Beyond the Project: Mentoring the Next Generation of PMs
Abstract: No matter the industry, the role of a mentor is crucial for fostering professional growth, success, and satisfaction. Project managers are naturally suited for mentorship roles because of their ability to communicate effectively, foster strong relationships, and prioritize stakeholder needs. Mentoring future, developing, and even seasoned project managers deepens the community, creates new opportunities, and advances the field.
This unique presentation will offer the mentee’s perspective, showcasing how impactful mentorship can transform careers and inspire others to step into leadership roles. I will share my personal journey, highlighting how a mentor recognized my skill set and potential and empowered me to change roles to pursue a career in project management. At a pivotal point in my career as both a mentee and a mentor, I have the distinct lens to discuss the advantages and challenges from both angles.
Culminating in a practical framework for providing effective mentorship and navigating obstacles in mentoring relationships, this presentation is valuable to project managers, new and senior alike.
PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills
Biography: A proud Terp alumna, Tessa Trach is PMI certified Project Management Professional and natural leader with the innate ability to foster creativity and collaboration among team members. With a skill set that includes optimizing systems, building team trust, and ensuring projects stay on track, Tessa is a reliable force in project delivery.
Tessa began her professional career as associate dean of students at a boarding school and then transitioned to a role in communications for an international nonprofit. It was in this role that a mentor quickly noticed her talent for clear communication, team building, effective management, and then created the organization’s first official project manager role specifically for her.
Currently a project manager at Cloudforce, Tessa brings her organization and people management skills to the tech world. She makes complex ideas digestible for any audience and has the power to unite team members towards a common goal. Colleagues often describe her as encouraging, collaborative, solution-oriented, and thoughtful – qualities that contribute to her success in creating positive and productive work environments.
Tessa enjoys spending her free time reading fiction, exploring new restaurants in DC with her partner, and experimenting with recipes at home. You can follow her culinary adventures on Instagram at @allthecheeseplz.
