wmpmi.org
The Western Michigan Chapter of the
Project Management Institute proudly
presents THE Project 2014 – our third
annual collegiate competition – brought
to you this year by Dematic.
April 14, 2014
Community Benefit
Community Engagement
Education
Employee Engagement
Healthier Communities
Inclusion and Diversity
There are countless ways
we serve our communities.
Innovation
Regional Relationships
Research
Sustainability
Our investment in West Michigan goes
well beyond exceptional care.
At Spectrum Health, our commitment to the communities we serve
is impacting lives in ways people don’t always see. As a not-for-profit
health system rooted in West Michigan, we invest in improving patient
care, building and renovating facilities, providing health education,
and funding programs that proactively address disease and illness.
To see the full value of a health system creating greater possibilities,
visit spectrumhealth.org/csr.
Table of Contents
FEATURES
PAGE
LETTER FROM GOVERNOR RICK SNYDER
2
Project Scenario And Deliverables
3
Sponsor page
4
Schedule of Events
5
WMPMI BOARD
THE Project Committee
6-7
8
Judges
9 - 11
PMO PANEL
13 - 16
Mentors
18 - 21
Champions
22
Team - AQUINAS COLLEGE
24 - 25
Team - CORNERSTONE University
26 - 28
Team - Davenport University
29 - 30
team - FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY
31 - 33
team - Grand valley state university - TEAM 1
34 - 36
team - Grand valley state university - TEAM 2
37 - 39
team - HILLSDALE COLLEGE
40 - 42
team - ITT TECH
43 - 44
team - Michigan Technological University
45 - 47
team - University of phoenix
48 - 49
1
A Message from Governor Rick Snyder
GOVERNOR RICK SNYDER
Dear Friends:
It gives me great pleasure to join the Western Michigan Chapter of the Project Management Institute (WMPMI) in welcoming
you to THE Project 2014 Collegiate Project Management Competition at Davenport University’s Lettinga Campus.
On behalf of the State of Michigan, I extend my sincere thanks to WMPMI and the generous sponsors – especially the
lead sponsor, Dematic – for this year’s competition. Your outstanding dedication, commitment, and support have made it
possible for students from various colleges to grow in project management and leadership skills. As you gather under this
year’s theme, Connecting Michigan’s Military Veterans with Their Federal Benefits, know that I look forward to working
with you as we move forward on our journey to reinvent Michigan.
Again, welcome to THE Project 2014 Collegiate Project Management Competition. Please accept my very best wishes for
a memorable and enjoyable event, and best of luck to the teams participating in this year’s competition.
Sincerely,
Rick Snyder
Governor
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wmpmi.org
THE Project 2014 Scenario and Deliverables
Project Title
Connecting Michigan’s Military Veterans with Their Federal Benefits
Project Sponsor
Governor Rick Snyder, State of Michigan
Business Case
Michigan, which ranks low in health, education, and other types of benefit spending, is home to more than 650,000 military veterans.
This is the 11th largest population of veterans nationally. According to data provided by the United States Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA), Michigan veterans rank last, on a per-capita basis, as recipients of federal VA dollars for total veterans’ benefits, even though
there are benefits available to them.
According to the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee, post 9/11 veterans in Michigan faced an unemployment rate of 29.4
percent in 2010, which is the highest rate in the nation. Most of those veterans that are unemployed could access benefits that could fund
their job training and possibly even receive living stipends. For instance, there are combat veterans living in poverty who could be eligible
for an $800-$1,200 monthly living stipend. There are also veterans who have medical and social issues that must be addressed, so they are
well prepared to learn a new trade and successfully enter the job market. There are those, too, who ration medications or forgo medical
treatments because they don’t realize they are eligible for health coverage.
The federal government provides benefits to veterans to resolve these issues, and there are even service providers who can assist veterans
with obtaining their benefits. If more veterans living in Michigan received the federal benefits they have earned, this would reduce the
amount of money the State of Michigan spends on state-funded programs that directly or indirectly support its veterans. However, the
fact remains that there are a significant number of veterans who do not access their benefits because they are either not aware of their
benefits, are not sure how to go about getting them, or may falsely believe they are not entitled to them. Therefore, it is necessary to
connect all veterans living in Michigan with the benefits they have earned, so they can take advantage of the health, education, and other
opportunities these benefits can afford them.
Main Requirements
•
•
•
Provide each Michigan veteran with:
0 An accurate profile of their benefits anytime, anywhere;
0 A way for them to connect with appropriate veteran service providers and other veterans’ resources that are available at the
local, state, and federal level.
The project plan and its supporting documentation must be developed in accordance with the Initiating and Planning
process groups detailed in the 5th edition of the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK).
Provide supporting documentation for all deliverable submissions. Be thorough!
Project Event / Deliverable Due Dates
Event or Deliverable
Team member names submitted.
Dates
No later than Noon on
November 8, 2013
Week of November 18, 2013
Week of December 2, 2013
February 7, 2014
March 10, 2014
Kick off call with mentors.
Kick off call with teams.
Phase Gate One is due - project charter, project scope, and structure.
Phase Gate Two is due – Stakeholder Management, Human Resource Management, Communication Management, Time Management and Cost Management.
Complete project plan is due.
April 1, 2014
Project presentations are due. Each presentation must demonstrate how the deliverables resulting
April 9, 2014
from the plan will be operational by June 2015 and how the project’s success will be measured. This
should include a high-level marketing plan.
The PMO panels will judge each teams’ presentation. The top four finalists will be identified and will April 14, 2014
present their projects again after the WMPMI dinner for final judgment. Awards will be presented
soon after.
3
sponsors
4
wmpmi.org
event day activity schedule
wmpmi.org
Start Time
9:15 AM
10:00 AM
10:30 AM
10:30 AM
10:50 AM
11:10 AM
11:30 AM
10:30 AM
End Time
10:00 AM
10:25 AM
11:45 AM
10:45 AM
11:05 AM
11:25 AM
11:45 AM
11:45 AM
Event
Team Check-in
Welcome
Presentations - Group 1
Aquinas College
Ferris State University
Cornerstone University
Davenport University
Presentations - Group 2
10:30 AM
10:50 AM
11:10 AM
10:45 AM
11:05 AM
11:25 AM
Michigan Tech
Grand Valley State University Team1
Hillsdale College
10:30 AM
10:30 AM
10:50 AM
11:10 AM
11:45 AM
10:45 AM
11:05 AM
11:25 AM
Presentations - Group 3
ITT Technical Institute
University of Phoenix
Grand Valley State University Team 2
11:45 PM
12:00 PM
12:55 PM
2:00 PM
3:25 PM
3:30 PM
3:45 PM
3:45 PM
4:05 PM
4:25 PM
4:45 PM
5:00 PM
12:00 PM
12:55 PM
1:55 PM
3:20 PM
3:30 PM
5:30 PM
5:00 PM
4:00 PM
4:20 PM
4:40 PM
5:00 PM
6:00 PM
Break / Transition to lunch
Lunch
Keynote Address to Teams
Reverse Career Fair
Announce Final Four
Registration for Members
Final Four Presentations
Team 1
Team 2
Team 3
Team 4
Appetizers & Networking
5:00 PM
6:00 PM
6:05 PM
6:15 PM
7:15 PM
7:25 PM
6:10 PM
6:05 PM
6:15 PM
7:15 PM
7:25 PM
7:30 PM
Decision
Move to Auditorium
Opening Remarks
Key Note Speaker
Announce Winner
Closing Remarks
April 14th, 2014
Location
Hallway by entrance
Auditorium
Room 1
Room 2
Room 3
Rooms 1-2
Auditorium
Meeting Rooms 1-3
Auditorium
Hallway by entrance
Auditorium
Meeting Rooms 1 - 3
and hallway
Classroom
Auditorium
Auditorium
5
wmpmi board
President
President-Elect
VP Administration
Thomas Shaw, PMP
Lori Bailey, PMP
Charles McKean, PMP
president@wmpmi.org
presidentelect@wmpmi.org
vpadministration@wmpmi.org
VP Education
VP Finance
VP Marketing
Trans-Matic Mfg.
Deborah Wilk, PMP
6
Spectrum Health
Steelcase, Inc.
Oracle Corporation
Retired – IBM Corporation
Gary Van Haitsma, PMP
Matt Boon, PMP
vpeducation@wmpmi.org
vpfinance@wmpmi.org
vpmarketing@wmpmi.org
wmpmi.org
MBA IS
VP Membership
VP Programs
Patricia Boer, PMP
Spectrum Health
Theodore Kallman, PMP
Unified Vision Group, Inc.
vpmembership@wmpmi.org
vpprograms@wmpmi.org
wmpmi board
Director of
Administration
Director of Administration
- Southern Region
Director of Administration
- Special Projects
Robert E. Griffin, PMP
Martin Stradt, PMP
Andrea Sisson, PMP
administrationdirector@wmpmi.org
administrationdirector_south@wmpmi.org
administrationdirectorprojects@wmpmi.org
Director of
Creative Education
Director of
Education Operations
Director of
Finance Operations
Benjamin Todd, PMP
Amway Corporation
Kellogg
Deborah VanElls, PMP
Amway Corporation
US Signal Company
Manoj Jain, PMP
Amway Corporation
directorofcreativeeducation@wmpmi.org
educationoperationsdirector@wmpmi.org
financeoperationsdirector@wmpmi.org
Director of
Marketing - PDD
Director of the
Collegiate Project
Director of
Membership
Gary Kuyper, PMP
Jeff Kissinger, PMP
Betty Harag, PMP
Cornerstone University
Grand Rapids Community College
McKay, An RR Donnelley Company
Director of
Mentorship
Director of
Outreach
Director of
Public Relations
Liisa Blick, PMP
Cindy Lewis, PMP, PMI-SP
directormarketing@wmpmi.org
Kimberly Cook, PMP
theprojectjk@wmpmi.org
membershipdirector@wmpmi.org
Steelcase, Inc.
Amway Corporation
linkedin@wmpmi.org
directorpublicrelations@wmpmi.org
Director of
Special Events
Director of
Technology
Director of
Volunteers
mentorshipdirector@wmpmi.org
Nadene Delana, PMP
Steelcase, Inc.
administrationdirector_bc@wmpmi.org
Eric Sowers, PMP
Bethany Christian Services
technologydirector@wmpmi.org
Advisicon
Linda LeSage, PMP
Davenport University
volunteerdirector@wmpmi.org
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wmpmi THE project 2014 project committee members
Project Role
Leadership Team
Team Members and Professional Role(s)
Tom Shaw, PMP – Trans-Matic Manufacturing, Inc. and WMPMI Board President
Benjamin Todd, PMP – Amway Corp. and WMPMI Director of Creative Education
Deb Wilk, PMP – Oracle Corp. and WMPMI VP of Education
Jeff Kissinger, PMP – Grand Rapids Community College and WMPMI THE Project
2014 Project Manager
Budget/Finance
Event Day Planning and Schedule
Event Program and Team Mentors
Marketing and Sponsorship
Coordinator
PMO Panel Coordinator
Reverse Career Fair Team
Ted Kallman, PMP – Unified Vision Group
Gary Van Haitsma, PMP – IBM Corporation (Retired) and WMPMI VP of Finance
Nadene Delana, PMP – Steelcase, Inc. and WMPMI Director of Special Events
Jeff Kissinger, PMP – Grand Rapids Community College and WMPMI THE Project
2014 Project Manager
Matt Boon, PMP – MBA IS and WMPMI VP of Marketing
Deb Wilk, PMP – Oracle Corp. and WMPMI VP of Education
Brian Gleason – University of Phoenix
Matt Boon, PMP – MBA IS and WMPMI VP of Marketing
Chris Stafford – Farmers Insurance, Inc.
Jan Gallagher, PMP
School Champions Coordinator
Curriculum and Scoring Guidelines
Scoring and Schedule
Kinga Winiarska, PMP – Cigna
Brian Gleason – University of Phoenix
Benjamin Todd, PMP – Amway Corp. and WMPMI Director of Creative Education
Benjamin Todd, PMP – Amway Corp. and WMPMI Director of Creative Education
Jeff Kissinger, PMP – Grand Rapids Community College and WMPMI THE Project
2014 Project Manager
SPONSORS
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wmpmi.org
judges
Dr James Brown
President
SEBA® Solutions Inc
Dr. James T. Brown Ph.D., president of SEBA® Solutions Inc., a registered
education provider for the Project Management Institute, has provided project
management training for dozens of companies nationally and internationally.
He has sixteen years of NASA experience that includes “hands on” experience
as a team member, project manager, and serving in executive level organizational
leadership roles. He has served as a subject matter expert for a leading project
software vendor and is the author of The Handbook of Program Management
published by McGraw-Hill. He also provides project management training online
and has been published in numerous project management publications including
PM Network, PE Magazine, PMI Community Post, Projects@Work, The Systems
Thinker, and PM World Today.
Dr. Brown has a patent for a project scheduling methodology, has received numerous
awards including “Engineer of the Year” from the Cape Canaveral Technical
Societies, and is a recipient of the “NASA Public Service Medal” for exceptional
contributions to NASA’s mission. He has a Ph.D. in industrial engineering
from the University of Central Florida, an MS in engineering management from
Florida Institute of Technology and a BS in electrical engineering from Tennessee
State University. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE), a certified Project
Management Professional (PMP), and Certified Speaking Professional (CSP).
Denny Gillem
Grand Rapids Community College
Denny Gillem grew up in Los Angeles, California, graduated from the US Military
Academy at West Point in June 1964, and was commissioned in the infantry. He
served in combat in Vietnam in 1965-66. He then assumed command of a rifle
company in the 101st Airborne Division, which deployed to Vietnam for the
fighting during the Tet Offensive in 1968. As a result of his combat tours, Denny
received seven US awards for valor.
Denny earned a master’s degree in political science at the University of Texas,
and subsequently joined the ROTC unit at Stanford University where he earned
another master’s degree in education. After serving in Germany, Denny was a
war planner for Europe and the Mideast at US Readiness Command in Florida.
Since leaving the Army, Denny has worked in sales, leadership, consulting, and
academic positions. He currently teaches American Government at Grand Rapids
Community College and hosts Frontlines of Freedom, a nationally syndicated,
military talk-radio show.
9
judges
Gary Granger
CEO & President
Granger Group
Gary is the Owner and president of Granger Group, a national real estate
investment and development company that provides investment, financing,
development, design/build, asset management, and property management services.
He has 38 years of leadership experience in all phases of the development process.
He demands quality, value, and the highest possible returns for investors on every
project he is involved in.
Prior to founding Granger Group, Gary began his career in business with his
family’s construction company, where he eventually served as its president for
five years. The company grew significantly during his tenure there. In 1997, Gary
established Granger Group to pursue his vision of achieving an extraordinary level
of excellence in delivering the built environment. In its first 17 years, Granger
Group has established many essential business and community partnerships. These
relationships have led to in excess of $1 billion worth of successful developments in
Michigan and throughout the United States, firmly establishing Granger Group
as an innovative industry leader.
Chair
Mitchell Intellectual Property Law, PLLC
James Mitchell specializes in phannaceutical patent litigation, including “HatchWaxman” litigation, chemical patent litigation, and trademark litigation. He has
made presentations on behalf of the Judicial Conference Center and the Intellectual
Property Law Institute. He has served as a member of four judicial screening
committees recommending meritorious candidates for appointment. He has
served on the Mayor’s task force for attracting knowledge-based industry to Grand
Rapids. He is a member of the Grand Rapids and American Bar Associations
and the American Intellectual Property Law Association. He is President of the
Historical Society for the United States District Court for the Western District of
Michigan. He serves on the following community boards: Mel Trotter Ministries,
The Gerald R Ford Council for the Boy Scouts of America, Aquinas College
Foundation, True Success, and the Advisory council to the Hauenstein Center.
Mr. Mitchell is a past chairman of the Michigan Techonogical University Board
of Control, and life member of the Michigan Tech Foundation.
James Mitchell
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wmpmi.org
judges
Carol Valade
Editor, Grand Rapids
Business Journal & Gemini Publications
As Editor of Gemini Publications, Carole R. Valade is responsible for editorial
policy, planning and development of publications and the editorial staffs of all
seven Gemini publications, Grand Rapids Magazine, Grand Rapids Family
Magazine, Grand Rapids Business Journal, www.GRBJ.com, and Business Journal
monthly publications: West Michigan Commercial Quarterly, Legal Quarterly,
and Health Quarterly. She writes columns and editorials for each publication.
She has received first place awards for news writing and feature writing from the
Associated Press, three first-place national awards for column writing and a first
place newspaper design award from the Michigan Press Association. Among
numerous recognitions, Valade was awarded by Women and Leadership in the
Workplace, Michigan Business & Professional Association, and U.S. Regional
Media Advocate of the Year Award.
Katie Wierengo
Senior Vice President, Supply Chain
Dematic Corp.
Katie Wierengo is the Senior Vice President of Supply Chain for Dematic North
America, one of the world’s leading suppliers of logistics automation solutions,
systems and service. In this role she is responsible for manufacturing, sourcing,
quality, and product safety. Ms. Wierengo joined Dematic (then Siemens Dematic)
in 2004 and has held key roles in quality, procurement, and manufacturing. Prior
to joining Dematic, her 20 years of experience focused primarily in the areas of
procurement, distribution, and continuous improvement for Siemens and multiple
companies in the apparel industry. Katie received a bachelor of science in business
administration from the University of Vermont and currently resides in Muskegon.
11
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pmo panel
Doug Campbell, PMP
Stryker
Doug Campbell has nearly 20 years of experience leading, implementing, and facilitating
projects that have resulted in significant improvements in business performance
and strategic growth. His expertise has helped executives and project teams develop
strategic plans with a focus on successful execution with measurable results. He has
made noteworthy contributions as a management leader in project and portfolio
management, innovation, and operational performance. Currently, he is the PMO
Director for Stryker’s medical division where he has developed a professional project
management practice that delivers services across their three global business units.
Doug holds a BSME from The University of Michigan and an MBA from Cornerstone
University. He also holds a master’s certificate in project management from the George
Washington University and is certified by the Project Management Institute as a PMP.
Connie Carmichael, PMP
Amway Corporation
Connie Carmichael has over 20 years of experience in project management, systems
implementation, training, and management. Her practical experience includes managing
projects across all business areas. Ms. Carmichael has worked at Citibank and Herman
Miller and held management, project management and training positions. She has
worked on several HR system and ERP implementation projects. She also developed
the project management office (PMO) for consulting and e-business groups. She joined
Amway in 2003 and managed marketing and communication projects and a team of
individuals responsible for 16 global warehouse management system implementations.
Ms. Carmichael also worked on building the PMO for Amway’s Supply Chain Center
of Excellence. She is currently working on the Amway University implementation. Ms.
Carmichael has her MBA from Colorado State University, is PMP certified, and is a
certified project management instructor.
Dr. Kuanchin Chen
Western Michigan University
Dr. Kuanchin Chen is a Professor of Computer Information Systems at Western
Michigan University. Dr. Chen’s research interests include electronic business, project
management, privacy and security, online behavioral issues, business analytics, and
human computer interactions. He has published more than eighty articles in journals,
books, conference proceedings and other academic publication outlets. Dr. Chen is a
recipient of several research and teaching awards, including department, university,
and U.S. Congress supported Fulbright awards. He currently serves on the editorial/
advisory boards of several academic journals.
13
pmo panel
Kim Cook, PMP
Steelcase, Inc.
Kim is a manager of the IT PMO at Steelcase in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She moved
into project management early in her career. In her current position, she leads a team
of 11 project managers in IT initiatives responsible for developing global project
management processes and educating the IT organization on the use of the project
management processes and best practices. Kim has a bachelor’s degree in electrical
engineering from Marquette University. Through the Michigan State University
Extension office, Kim is a certified master gardener and master naturalist.
Bob Dougherty
Meijer Inc.
Bob Dougherty currently holds the position of manager in the ITS Project Office at
Meijer Inc. in Walker, Michigan. The Meijer project office is responsible for executing
IS and select business projects globally. Bob brings 29 years of IT experience in many
capacities and specialties such as program/project management, software development/
integration, network and telecomm engineering, and data center design, construction,
and management. Prior to joining Meijer, Bob was a global IT manager at Haworth
Inc. in Holland, Michigan, and also worked at Provia Software, Herman Miller for
Healthcare, and BASF. Bob attended Middlesex College in New Jersey and holds
several certifications. Bob is married and has 4 children.
Doug MacNeil, PMP
C/D/H Technology Consultants
Doug MacNeil is an experienced project management professional and Microsoft
certified consultant with over 15 years of project management experience in multiple
industries. He is experienced with enterprise project management tools, the utilization
of those tools, and their application in today’s project management office. Doug joined
C/D/H – a regional technology consultancy – in 2011. Currently Doug is a Ph.D.
candidate in IT project management and expects to publish his dissertation research
in 2015. In addition to consulting in the practice of project management, Doug is an
adjunct college instructor in many area of project management and systems analysis.
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wmpmi.org
pmo panel
Paul Mead, PMP
Hagerty
Paul Mead is the Vice President of Project Management at Hagerty, where he has worked
since 2006. In this role, he is responsible for the development of the enterprise project
management practice as well as oversight of planning and execution of all strategic and
operational projects. Paul’s professional background includes roles in strategy, project
management, business process management, education, and consulting as vice president
and PMP. He has developed his project management acumen managing progressively
larger, more complex projects. Paul has studied business at Oakland College, Ferris
State University and obtained a master of applied project management from Villanova
University. He is a veteran of the United States Army and Michigan National Guard.
He is a resident of Traverse City and is married with two children.
David O’Donnoghue, PMP, MBA, MPA
Amway Corporation
David O’Donnoghue is the Manager of IT Project Management – Enterprise Services
at Amway. He leads a team of project managers at Amway’s corporate headquarters
in Ada, Michigan and in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Prior to working at Amway he
was the IT manager at Hospice of Michigan. A native of Washington, D.C., he has
traveled extensively to Asia, Europe, and Australia/New Zealand, having managed
projects with as many as 100+ team members co-located in multiple countries. He
earned undergraduate degrees at the University of Maryland, an MPA from Grand
Valley State University and an MBA from Michigan State University. He holds a PMP
certification, plus certifications in ITIL, change management, and IT infrastructure
technologies. David is married and has two daughters.
Darcy Swope
Grand Rapids Community College
Darcy Swope is the IT Manager for the Project Management Office at Grand Rapids
Community College. After 10 years of managing IT customer support, Darcy
took on the challenge of managing GRCC’s IT projects. Within a year, the newly
created PMO standardized the project submissions, developed project workflow, and
established a high-level leadership team to prioritize projects. In her free time, Darcy
enjoys woodworking in her basement, where she generously allotted a small workbench
for her husband, Gene.
15
pmo panel
Deborah Wilk, PMP
Oracle Corporation
Deborah Wilk works for Oracle Corp. as principal technical account manager for
the State of Michigan. Recently she has been Director of program management for
Spectrum Health and led the PMO at Advanced Radiology. She is a certified Project
Management Professional (PMP), and besides leading project management efforts, Deb
is dedicated to teaching project management. In addition to THE Project Collegiate
Competition, her WMPMI Education Team provides PMP/CAPM certification
training and mentorships.
Spectrum Health is the largest employer in West Michigan, with 21,000 employees, 1,050 employed physicians
and 2,200 active volunteers. We are the largest not-for-profit health care system in West Michigan, representing 11
hospitals, 170 ambulatory and service sites, and 1,938 licensed beds system-wide. Our statewide health plan, Priority
Health, has 575,000 members.
Like all health care organizations, Spectrum Health is facing a rapidly changing and fiscally challenging environment.
Our goal of becoming the premier health care provider by 2020 can only be achieved if we make the right decisions at
the right time during this period of uncertainty.
The Enterprise Portfolio Management Office (EPMO) delivers superior portfolio, program, and project management
services for key strategic initiatives. Portfolio management is the art and science of making the right decisions at the
right time while providing transparency on ideas, projects, and programs to leaders across the organization investing
their human and financial capital.
A new streamlined model provides a common and standard framework for delivering projects faster and more efficiently
over the course of a project’s life.
All of this means:
• Being a partner with our business and the leaders of Spectrum Health to deliver
superior value;
• Connecting everything we do to the strategy, mission and 2020 goals for Spectrum
Health to be the leader in health;
• Most importantly, connecting everything we do to the reason we all exist: our
members and patients.
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wmpmi.org
are happening
here
WE JOIN YOU IN CELEBRATING GREAT WORK
#TheProjectPMI #wellbeing @steelcase
#thatsthegoodstuff
17
mentors
Tom Conquest, PMP
tom.conquest@ge.com
GE Aviation Systems
Tom is a program manager from GE Aviation Systems where he has actively managed avionic
development and manufacturing programs for various military and civil aircraft platforms over the past
15 years. Prior to his program management position, Tom worked as an engineering project manager
where he led project development teams in the development of flight recorder, flight management,
and video processing systems. Most recently, Tom has led various engineering, manufacturing, and
subcontracting efforts on GE’s core computing system deployed on the 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Tom
earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Purdue University and has a master’s degree in
business administration sciences from Iowa State University.
Dick Friedrich, PMP
friedrichd@sbcglobal.net
Dick Friedrich is a retired process leader from GE Aviation Systems and currently teaches project
management at Davenport University. He holds degrees from the United States Air Force Academy,
University of Michigan, and Aquinas College. He has facilitated project management processes for over
20 years and been certified as a Project Management Professional since 2004. His professional focus has
been continuous improvement, risk management, and earned value management. His personal interests
include family and church activities, stewardship, Austrian economics, outdoor activities of all kinds, and
(of course) mentoring.
Andrew Gill, PMP
andrew.gill@dematic.com
Dematic
Andrew joined Rapistan in 2000 as a software engineering project lead before moving to a global IT
services company in 2004 as the director engagement management. Returning to Rapistan (now Dematic)
in 2006 he was appointed as the head of software application engineering in 2011 where he is responsible
for the engineering and execution of IT projects for Dematic. A graduate of the Britannia Royal Naval
College, Royal Naval Engineering College, and the Royal Navy School of Maritime Operations, he spent
sixteen years as a Royal Naval officer specializing in communications, electronic warfare and intelligence
operations before making a career change to engineering and project management. This is his third year
as a mentor for THE Project.
Joe Griffin, PMP
joe.griffin@gfs.com
Gordon Food Service
Joe has lived in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for 23 years where he has been a consultant in the healthcare,
banking, and food distribution industries. Joe is currently a senior project manager at Gordon Food
Services (GFS) where he has worked on large strategic projects in technology, business integration,
and construction. Joe has been recognized at GFS for his work in successfully integrating two smaller
food distributors into GFS’s processes and culture. Joe enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons,
reading, and traveling.
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wmpmi.org
mentors
Jeff Hazy, MBA, PMP
jeff.hazy@amway.com
Amway Corporation
Jeff Hazy is a senior project manager in new product development for Amway Corporation. His project
management experience is focused on new product development. He has launched new products in over 55
different countries with experience in the following product lines: home and personal care, nutrition, and
electro-mechanical devices. He also opened a new regional warehouse in Busan, Korea, and implemented
a global postponement program in Europe and Asia that resulted in a 12% inventory reduction and
a 60% improvement in delivery times. Jeff earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from
the Southern Institute of Technology and an MBA from Purdue University. He is married with four
children, and enjoys running, fishing, international business, and spending time with his family.
Manoj Jain
manoj.jain@amway.com
Amway Corporation
Manoj was born and raised in Kolkata, India and is a certified PMI professional. Manoj started his
career in finance and auditing in 1996 and moved to information technology industry in 1998. He
is currently a manager IT – record to report appls at Amway Corporation. Prior to joining Amway,
Manoj worked for companies such as Tata Consultancy Services, Oracle, and IBM in various consulting
roles and assignments. Manoj’s most recent project at Amway has been to deploy Oracle E-biz enabled
standardized tool and process at Amway’s European affiliates. He is also WMPMI’s director of finance.
In his free time, Manoj enjoys reading, indoor games, and spending time with family and friends. Manoj
and his wife Sumita spend a lot of their time volunteering and raising their son, Naman.
Ashley Livingston, PMP
ashley.livingston@wwwinc.com
Wolverine Worldwide, Inc.
Ashley has 25+ years experience managing technical, marketing, product development, and logistics
projects. While at Amway, he served on the initial project management process development initiative,
implementing enterprise-wide project management methodology and systems. Most recently, Ashley
management projects focusing on global warehouse consolidation, SAP upgrades, Microsoft Server, and
Merrell Apparel and Outdoor Group process mapping. Currently Ashley is managing the global DC
Bypass initiative, China for China manufacturing project, and joint venture efforts with several brands.
Mark Malloy, PMP
mark.malloy@chaucer.com
Chaucer Consulting
Mark is a senior consultant at Chaucer Consulting with a focus on project, portfolio and change
management. His most recent assignment is managing a large implementation for the compliance of the
FDA Unique Device Identification ruling. Before Chaucer, he was the CIO of MPI Research where he
initiated a project and portfolio methodology that met the needs of a fast changing research environment.
Mark earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from University of Southwestern Louisiana (now
ULL), and his master of business from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
19
mentors
Mark McClusky, PMP
mark.mcclusky@amway.com
Amway Corporation
Mark McClusky graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in
business management of information systems. He is currently employed at Amway Corporation as an
IT project manager. Over the last few years he has led four globally-located teams through two global
assessments and four multi-million dollar deployments of software packages, which focused primarily
on customer facing applications. Recently he has taken on new responsibilities as program manager
of Amway’s websites. Mark and his wife met and graduated from GVSU. They reside with their two
daughters in Grand Rapids.
Melissa Powell, PMP
melissa.powell@amway.com
Amway Corporation
Melissa Powell graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s in marketing. She started
her career Amway as an IT project management intern and began to enjoy the project management
profession. She received her Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) in 2010 while gaining
project management experience to take her career to the next level. She currently works on product
development projects in the Home Care business line of Amway and received her Project Management
Professional (PMP) in 2012. In her spare time, she enjoys cheering on her MSU Spartans, being active
with friends, and spending time with her large, crazy family.
Tom Powers, PMP
tom@powersdata.com
Amway Corporation
Tom Powers has a BS in management from Cornerstone University and an AS in electronic engineering
technology from ITT Technical Institute. He began his project management career in the copier/printer
industry primarily focusing on customer relations and business process improvements by implementing
operational excellence for the sales and service departments. As an IT project manager, he has worked
in a variety of industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and education. Tom has provided
project management leadership for datacenter migrations, readiness assessment, converged infrastructure,
business continuity, and disaster recovery. Tom enjoys spending his free time with his family, which
includes trips to the family cottage or dinner and a movie.
Chuck Stevens, PMP
chuck.stevens@amway.com
Amway Corporation
A Grand Rapids native and Grand Valley State University graduate with an MBA in finance, Chuck has
held project management and consulting positions in a variety of industries including IT, manufacturing,
education, healthcare, hospitality, and startups. His clients include Amway, GM, Steelcase, Haworth,
Spectrum Health, Symantec, and various SMBs. His successes include managing global projects,
increasing production output, redesigning IT operations, developing startups, reimagining products,
developing multimillion dollar sales programs, and executive coaching for Fortune 1000 companies.
Recent Projects at Amway include intranet site replacement, global shop replenishment solution
assessment, upgrade DMS Windows and SQL server database, business intelligence GL project, OBIEE
and Essbase connectivity, and warehouse automation in Russia.
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mentors
Jeff Totten, MBA, PMP, CSM
jeff.totten@cascadeng.com
Cascade Engineering
As chief engineer for Cascade Engineering, Jeff Totten leads the research & development and engineering
disciplines for several business sectors including automotive, furniture, material handling, commercial
products, and renewable energy. Jeff holds a Bachelor of Science degree in plastics engineering technology
from Ferris State University, and a master of business administration from the University of Michigan.
He is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), and is a Certified Scrum Master (CSM).
With over twenty five years of experience in the plastics industry, he has held a variety of management
positions in engineering and manufacturing. He also serves on university advisory boards relating to the
plastics and renewable energy fields.
Brett M. Wild, PMP
brettmwild@eaton.com
Eaton Corporation
Brett Wild has over twenty years experience managing projects and commercial relationships for the
military, aerospace, defense, and vehicle markets. He has master’s degrees in physics and business, and
served as an officer in the United States Air Force. He currently leads a team of project managers who are
developing new products for the commercial vehicle (trucks and buses, etc.) market. Brett enjoys project
management and is particularly passionate about helping teams establish effective project plans. He also
raises money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan by participating in the Wish-A-Mile 300
bicycle ride. He is married and has three lovely daughters.
Stryker thanks the participants
and West Michigan PMI and
congratulates the winners of
THE Project 2014
Together with our customers, we are driven to make healthcare better. 21
Learn more at www.stryker.com
champions
Aquinas College
Cornerstone University
Davenport University
Mrs. Victoria J. Fleenor, M.S.
Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems
Rachel Hammond, MM
Assistant Professor of Business/Project Management
Mr. Bob Clarkson, PMP
Project Management Lead Faculty
Ferris State University
Mr. Dan Tuuri, PMP
Instructor of Computer Information Systems
22
Grand Valley State
University
Grand Valley State
University
Dr. Jaideep Motwani
Management Department Chair
Jean Nagelkerk, Ph.D., FNP
Vice Provost for Health
Hillsdale College
Mr. Michael Murray, J.D.
Executive Director of Career Services
ITT Technical Institute
Michigan Technological University
University of Phoenix
Mr. Doug Friend, PMP
Senior Instructor of Business
Dana M. Johnson, Ph.D., CQE, CQA,
CMQ/OE, CSSGB, CPA, CMA
Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management,
Adjunct Professor of Mechanical Engineering
Mr. Brian Gleason, MBA
Campus Director
wmpmi.org
At Davenport University, we pride ourselves on bringing real-world experience into the classroom. Each semester I discuss
critical ideas that our project management majors need to know to help them secure and excel in their jobs. When asked
to write an article for the West Michigan PMI Competition Program Guide, this information seemed like a natural fit.
Here are my 8 most important things college students hoping to work and excel in project management should know (in no
particular order):
1. The best way to get a job after graduation is to get an internship during college. Start researching internships during
your first year and expect to start applying for them in the fall of your sophomore year.
2. When you do land an internship, make the most of it. Treat it as a 90-day interview. Dress appropriately and professionally
for your internship and leave the headphones at home. Pay attention to how others perceive you. Don’t assume that
every full- time employee is living up to what his or her supervisor expects in terms of professionalism. Don’t allow
yourself to think “this must be ok, because Jane or Jim does it.”
3. Companies, in general, are much more project- based than ever before. Projects are becoming more complex and more
diverse. Organizations are learning that having individuals who can capture project requirements, construct schedules,
define outcomes, work well in teams, and measure progress is critical to success.
4. Project management is not just for “seasoned professionals.” Companies are figuring out that students with project
management education can be huge assets on project teams even with little experience. Our newly minted Project
Management graduates are flourishing at a variety of leading organizations.
5. Project managers need to be versed in business and business strategy. Every project manager needs to understand how
his or her project fits into the strategic plan of the organization.
6. The right mentor can help navigate possible career minefields and be a source of advice for the ever-changing conditions
project managers face. Along these lines, don’t discount the value of having “discussions” with friends, co-workers, and
those in your professional networks to help you stay current or provide guidance.
7. Project managers need to double as public relations personnel ensuring that various functional departments understand
what their project is designed to accomplish, how it will impact them, and how the output of the project will contribute
to organizational goals.
8. As a project manager, it’s important to challenge the status quo. Try to continuously improve your abilities and
organizational processes. Having said that, your 50-year-old boss was 22 once, but you’ve never been 50. Have the
wisdom to know when it’s appropriate to challenge the boss and when it’s best to go along.
While these 8 strategies are not all that you need to know to get and keep a project management job, they should provide
sound guidance as you progress in your academic and professional careers. This list might be a good tool to begin a discussion
with a new boss or mentor. They may have different views or be willing to build upon the ideas presented above. I would
like to leave you with this thought: notice that very little of the above advice deals with knowing a specific formula, project
management concept, or how to use a software tool. Project management success is highly dependent upon a person’s
attitude, effort, and willingness to work with others. These skills take practice, but not training, and are 100% within your
control. Good luck in this year’s competition.
Bob Clarkson, PMP
Davenport University
Lead Faculty-Project Management
23
teams
CHAMPION:
MENTOR:
Mrs. Victoria J. Fleenor, M.S.
Mark Malloy
Fred Fuhrman
Major: BS, Computer Information Systems
Graduation Date: December 2014
Fred Fuhrman is a senior at Aquinas College majoring in computer information
systems and minoring in psychology. He has studied computer systems all his life
and has only become more passionate about technology with each passing year.
Wishing to employ more of his creative talents, Fred switched from studying the
engineering aspects of computing to its design aspects. One day he hopes to help
diminish the line between man and machine by designing smarter systems that
border on artificial intelligence. When not on his computer, Fred can be found
out trekking through the woods, paintball gun in hand, or flying down hills with
a snowboard strapped to his feet.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would fly
to, land on, and return from the planet Mars.”
Angela Shemanski
Major: BS, Management Information Systems
Graduation Date: December 2014
From Grand Rapids, Michigan, Angela is a senior at Aquinas College majoring
in Management Information Systems. She became interested in management
information systems while supporting engineering teams at GE Aviation. Since
May of 2011 she has supported various activities in the sales resource network
at Steelcase. In her free time, Angela enjoys boating, fishing, and volunteering
with various school activities.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would work
with a team to build and operate schools in rural villages of
Central America.”
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wmpmi.org
teams
CHAMPION:
MENTOR:
Mrs. Victoria J. Fleenor, M.S.
Mark Malloy
Killian Smith
Major: BS Computer Information Systems
Graduation Date: May 2014
Killian is in his fifth year at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Before this, he attended high school at Warren De La Salle, where he was
raised in Metro Detroit. Killian has changed majors many times during his
time at Aquinas, but is very happy with his choice to obtain a computer
information systems degree. This area of study has helped him to achieve
many job opportunities, with his most recent being a promotion to Genius at
the Apple Retail Store in Woodland Mall. When Killian is not working, one
can usually find him playing a guitar or listening to music loudly.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
become a full time musician and tour the world
with my Gibson Explorer.”
Karielle Zbaracki
Major: BS, Computer Information Systems
Graduation Date: May 2015
From Coon Rapids, Minnesota, Karielle is a junior at Aquinas College majoring
in computer information systems. She has always been interested in computers,
but is happiest when using technology to help others, be it in a major or minor
way. Karielle has spent time researching other cultures while offering her
help with organizations on campus. She is still rather inexperienced in career
applications, but is gathering experience in web design and programming. In
her free time, Karielle enjoys reading, writing, and researching whatever topic
piques her interest.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would open
up housing and offer resources for students and families in
need of help.”
25
teams
CHAMPION: Rachel Hammond, MM
Tom Powers, PMP
MENTOR:
Cori Astholz
Major: Bachelor of Science, International Business
Graduation Date: May 2014
A native of New Hampshire, Cori Astholz is a senior at Cornerstone
University majoring in International Business. She is the current President
of the Cornerstone chapter of Enactus, a student organization that aims to
empower others through entrepreneurial means. Since being introduced to
project management through Enactus’ involvement in THE Project 2014, she
has challenged the Cornerstone Enactus team to execute their plan to connect
Michigan veterans with their available benefits. As a student, she successfully
participated in two communications internships and gained experience in
Photoshop, professional writing, and social media. In her spare time, she enjoys
good coffee and catching up on the news.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
apply, be accepted, and graduate from law school.”
Madison Drew
Major: BA, Humanities – Literature
Graduation Date: May 2016
Madison is a sophomore at Cornerstone University majoring in humanities with
a concentration in literature. She is currently employed at Miller Library as a
circulation worker. During the summer, she works at Roman Manufacturing
Inc. as a production worker. She would eventually like to enter the world of
editing and publishing as an acquisitions editor. In her spare time, she enjoys
reading, basketball, and playing the piano.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
design and open a bookstore.”
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wmpmi.org
teams
CHAMPION: Rachel Hammond, MM
Tom Powers, PMP
MENTOR:
James Hardman
Double Major: Bachelor of Science, Business Marketing & International Business
Graduation Date: May 2017
Born in Venezuela and raised in Chicago, James is a freshman at Cornerstone
University with a double major in business marketing and international business
along with a Spanish minor. His choice of study was influenced by short-term
mission work at a Mexican orphanage and exposure to countries outside the
United States. After graduation, his goal is to work with a pro-life organization
to launch a global marketing campaign about abortion.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
create my own car company that focuses on morals and
low prices with creative designs to bring a fresh perspective
to the automotive industry.”
Brad Orr
Major: Bachelors of Science, Business Management
Graduation Date: December 2015
Brad is a junior at Cornerstone University majoring in business management.
His interest in collaboration brought him to study management and also led him
to become involved in Enactus at Cornerstone. Through campus and community
projects, including THE Project 2014, he has been able to grow his skills both
academically and professionally. He plans to take his determination and strong
work ethic into the workplace after graduation as he seeks a management
position in a forward thinking organization. In his free time, Brad enjoys sports,
hunting, and fishing.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would end
world hunger.”
27
teams
CHAMPION: Rachel Hammond, MM
Tom Powers, PMP
MENTOR:
Paul Studebaker
Major: Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing
Graduation Date: May 2017
Born in St. Mary’s, Ohio and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Paul Studebaker
is a freshman at Cornerstone University. Paul recently served as a vice president
of Michigan DECA, overseeing a high school business organization of nearly
8,000 students. He was also awarded top business student at Jenison High
School in 2013. Seeking out new opportunities is one of Paul’s priorities, so he
is excited to be involved in THE Project competition this year. He believes it
is great experience for anyone heading into the business world. In his free time
Paul loves to play sports and guitar, along with serving at his local church.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, Do nothing.
Everything has some risk of failure, it’s just a matter of not
being afraid of it.”
SPONSORS
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wmpmi.org
teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Bob Clarkson, PMP
MENTOR:
Livingston, Ashley, PMP
Adam Duncan, PMP
Major: IT Global Project Management w/ Information Security concentration
Graduation Date: April 27, 2014
Adam Duncan is a project manager at Spectrum Health. He possesses 20 years
of experience as a project leader, Project coordinator and project manager. In
May 2013 he earned a PMP certification while getting his degree in Global IT
Project Management at Davenport University. His studies also include three
weeks of operations management and risk management in Germany and France.
In his work, Adam developed a detailed project plan supporting the reaccreditation of the Maine College of Business. The plan was developed using
Smartsheet and currently supports 51 university staff and faculty members
as they prepare documents and provide data for submission of a two volume
outcome-based self-study.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would take
up proximity wingsuit flying.”
Kyle Masteller
Graduate Major: MBA with concentration in Strategic Management
Graduation Date: May 2015
Born and raised in Holland, Michigan, Kyle is a graduate student at Davenport
University pursuing a masters of business administration with an emphasis in
strategic management. He became interested in project management when
job-shadowing his father in project management at Herman Miller. Before
attending Davenport, Kyle graduated from Aquinas College where he aided in
helping his school reach its goal of becoming a zero waste campus by fall 2014
by incrementally reducing waste by 25% each semester. Kyle is also experienced
with coaching and motivating others. He hopes to find a job with a local
company managing projects, so he can get enough experience to test for his
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. In his free time, Kyle
enjoys running, kiteboarding, and competing in tennis tournaments.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
a sustainable energy consulting business and travel the
world to help communities become more efficient in their
energy use. ”
29
teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Bob Clarkson, PMP
MENTOR:
Livingston, Ashley, PMP
Edwin Perez
Major: BS, Global Project Management
Graduation Date: November 2014
Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in New York City, Edwin is a senior
at Davenport University majoring in global project management. He became
interested in project management while working in the military where he
assisted the IT project managers with planning projects. Edwin is experienced
with computer networking and technical support. He hopes to find a job with
a local company managing IT projects, so he can get enough experience to test
for his Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. In his free time,
Edwin enjoys movies, paint ball and music.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
my own IT solutions company.”
Shannon Shovan
Major: BS, Computer Networking (Adv. Cisco) and Computer Security
Graduation Date: April 2014
Shannon is a senior at Davenport University majoring in both Computer
Networking and Computer Security. She was the acting project manager of
the Cyber Defense Organization from April 2012 until December 2013. She
is the third President of the Cyber Defense Organization. Shannon has won
first place in team competition with Business Professional of America and
Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition during winter 2013. Her most recent
accomplishment was obtaining funding for Davenport to be represented in the
National Cyber League competition fall 2013.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
start an international cyber investigation company working
with banks, governments, and multinational enterprise
companies.”
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wmpmi.org
teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Dan Tuuri, PMP
MENTORS:
Jeff Trotten
Brett Wild
Benjamin Campbell
Major: BS, Computer Information Technology
Graduation Date: August 2014
Benjamin grew up in Jenison, Michigan and currently resides in Grand Rapids,
MI. He has worked as a life and health insurance agent, mover, and roofer.
Benjamin is retired from the United States Air Force where he served as a medic
during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Benjamin
is a father of two children and married the love of his life when he was in the
Air Force. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends as
well as being an avid hunter, fishermen, and watching Michigan sports teams.
Benjamin joined The Project as a means of helping veterans and broadening his
experience in the area of project management.
“If I could do anything without the risk of failure, I would
start a hunting outfitter business.”
Triston Evans
Major: BS, Computer Information Technology
Graduation Date: August 2014
At the age of 17 Triston joined the Air National Guard. During his time with
the military, he built on leadership skills instilled in him early on in life. He
also learned how to be a good follower, and learned that this skill is also a good
quality in a leader.
In 2009 Triston used his VA educational benefits to enroll in a degree in
Computer Information Technology at Ferris State University. He currently
works full time at American Axle Manufacturing as Plant Floor IT support.
The three great themes of his life: faith, teams, and computers have influenced
him immensely. He looks forward to seeing where they lead him in the future.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would own
a brewery and coffee house chain in major cities around
the US.”
31
teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Dan Tuuri, PMP
MENTORS:
Jeff Trotten
Brett Wild
David Langlois
Major: BS, Computer Information Systems
Graduation Date: May 2015
A graduate of Muskegon Community College (MCC), David has only just
begun his experience in project management. He currently works as a junior
.NET developer for Arbor Solutions, Inc. He has completed internships in
the information technology departments of both MCC and GE Aviation –
Muskegon. David recently won his second Elevator Pitch Competition for his
pitch of an e-reader for the blind. His goals include starting several companies
in diverse industries within the next 20 years. In his free time, David enjoys
furthering his education and singing karaoke.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
partner with my planned business associates and begin our
enterprises.”
Jeff Magnuson
Major: BS, Computer Information Technology
Graduation Date: May 2014
Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Jeff is a senior at Ferris State
University majoring in Computer Information Technology. He became
interested in project management as a way to blend his IT education with his
management background in the food service industry. He has owned his own
catering business and has organized a range of events ranging from wedding
receptions to holiday parties for up to 1400 guests. Jeff hopes to utilize his
experience with a company managing IT projects, so he can prepare for his
Project Management Professional certification. In his free time Jeff enjoys
spending time with his wife and three children. He also enjoys golf, paintball,
and football.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
an IT research company that would develop technology
solutions for underutilized industries.”
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wmpmi.org
teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Dan Tuuri, PMP
MENTORS:
Jeff Trotten
Brett Wild
Thomas Monroe
Major: BS, Computer Information Systems
Graduation Date: December 2014
As a former small business owner and entrepreneur, Thomas has ten years of
experience as a residential general contractor and seven years in the transportation
industry. Thomas is a senior at Ferris State University majoring in CIS while
completing his certificate in project management. He currently holds a degree
in computer networking technology and intends to obtain his masters in
information security and intelligence. Thomas hopes to secure employment
in IT project management, where he can gain the experience required for his
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Thomas maintains
membership with the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, and Phi
Theta Kappa honors society.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
consider doing it anyway”
Kathleen Schumar
Major: BS, Information Security Intelligence
Graduation Date: May 2016
Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kathleen is a sophomore at
Ferris State University majoring in information security intelligence with a
concentration in project management. Kathleen spent her past summer at
Amway as an intern in the IT Project Management Office. She assisted current
project managers on projects and then earned the opportunity to run a few big
projects herself. Kathleen loves Michigan summers whether it be going to the
beach or being active by wakeboarding or golfing.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
a Network Security Consulting company to protect anyone
including government programs to major corporations.”
33
teams
CHAMPIONS: Dr. Jaideep Motwani
Jean Nagelkerk, Ph.D., FNP
MENTOR:
Andrew Gill
TEAM 1
Kaitlyn Andrykovich
Bachelor of Business Administration Marketing & Finance
Graduation Date: April 2014
Kaitlyn was born and raised in Grand Blanc, Michigan. She is a senior at
Grand Valley State University, double majoring in marketing and finance. By
double majoring, Kaitlyn was able to integrate her people skills with her love
for numbers. After managing an online Google ad campaign and the analytics
for two webpages, she found her niche in marketing analytics. Along with
this, Kaitlyn has worked as a marketing intern for GVSU’s Human Resources
department. Her biggest accomplishment during her four years at GVSU is
receiving an invitation to present at a Google education summit. In her free
time she enjoys being outdoors and spending time with her friends and family.
After graduation, she hopes to work with a marketing team doing research and
analytics.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would open
my own ice cream shop. It has been a dream of mine since I
was little.”
Andrew Dygert
Major: B.A. in Business Administration / Anticipated Emphasis: Supply Chain Management
Graduation Date: 2016
Drew was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is a sophomore at
Grand Valley State University and is majoring in supply chain management.
Drew decided on his major after spending two summers working for Amway
Corporation. His decision was based on his interest in the industry and
the increasing demand for supply chain degree holders. Drew has served in
numerous leadership positions including assistant varsity football coach at a
local Grand Rapids high school. His proudest achievement is earning Eagle
Scout rank through the Boy Scouts of America. Following graduation, Drew
hopes to find a job in the supply chain industry at a local company.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would own
and operate a car restoration business.”
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wmpmi.org
teams
CHAMPIONS: Dr. Jaideep Motwani
Jean Nagelkerk, Ph.D., FNP
MENTOR:
Andrew Gill
TEAM 1
Alec Gonzalez
Major: BBA, Management Information Systems
Graduation Date: April 2015
Alec is a senior at Grand Valley State University majoring in management
information systems. He was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Alec
became interested in project management through coursework at Grand Valley.
He has been a key player in helping start a student chapter of the Association
for Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting at Grand Valley. He has
experience with database management systems and customer service. He hopes
to apply his experience in IT and project management at an ERP consulting
firm. In his free time, Alec enjoys exercising, cooking, and knitting.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
start an IT management consulting firm focusing on ERP
systems.”
Olivia Jelenek
Major: Masters of Business Administration
Graduation Date: August 2014
Olivia was born and raised in Clare, Michigan. She completed her undergraduate
degrees at Grand Valley State University in international business and marketing.
She is now pursuing her MBA in a full time integrated program. In addition
to classes, Olivia is also a cooperative assistant at Consumers Energy in the
strategy group, where she works in collaboration with a wide variety of people
throughout the company to support various projects and initiatives. In the future,
she hopes to work for an international company in project management. In her
free time, Olivia enjoys baking, reading, traveling and crossfit.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would join
the Peace Corps and work to promote health and education
in developing countries.”
35
teams
CHAMPIONS: Dr. Jaideep Motwani
Jean Nagelkerk, Ph.D., FNP
MENTOR:
Andrew Gill
TEAM 1
Aaron Lawson
Graduate Degree: Masters of Business Administration
Graduation Date: August, 2014
Aaron was born in Holland, Michigan, and has lived in West Michigan his
entire life. He has a BBA in accounting, and is currently working for Haworth,
Inc. in their Global Sourcing Department at their corporate headquarters
in Holland. Aaron is currently a member of the FIMBA program (Fulltime Integrated Master’s of Business Administration) at Grand Valley State
University. Aaron is currently spearheading a project for Haworth to evaluate
its system of inbound transportation of materials. He would love to learn more
about project management. so that he can bring a greater depth of knowledge
to the workplace.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
my own international business that allows me to travel.”
Ananda Muthusamy
Degree: MBA – Management of Technology and Innovation (ERP Systems)
Graduation: April, 2015
With a focus on International perspective, Ananda has come from India to
pursue an MBA at Grand Valley State University. Previously he acquired his
BE in electrical and electronics and an MS in quality management from Anna
University and Birla Institute of Technology and Science. He worked for eight
years with Tata Group companies (Tata Power; Tata Retail; Tata Housing)
providing business excellence, aligning corporate strategy with all functions, and
streamlining organizational processes through business process reengineering.
He has received “Outstanding Employee of the Year” and “Best Outgoing
Student of the Year” awards in his profession and academics. Currently, he is
working as graduate assistant at GVSU” on a product development project.
Ananda is exploring jobs in strategy and project management to enhance his
capabilities.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
become a CEO much earlier in my career and drive an
organization for long term sustainability along with the
organizational team members.”
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wmpmi.org
teams
TEAM 2
CHAMPIONS: Dr. Jaideep Motwani
Jean Nagelkerk, Ph.D., FNP
MENTORS: Mark McClusky
Chuck Stevens
Nathan Bair
Masters of Business Administration
Graduated
Nathan was born and raised in Spring Lake, Michigan. For his undergraduate
education he attended the University of Michigan where he earned a bachelor’s
in biology and a secondary teaching certification. After working for a year and a
half in the STEM industry, he began working towards his MBA at Grand Valley
and working as a graduate assistant for the management department. During
this time he spent a year working as an intern with the City of Grand Rapids,
Office of Energy and Sustainability, doing research related to green fleet and
management best practices as well as alternative energy. Now that he is finished
with his MBA, he is taking classes and actively searching for a job related to
sustainability and project management.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
create a “solution” tank to solve issues plaguing the world.”
Brian Gotberg
Major: : B.S. Film/Video & B.B.A. Business Management
Graduation: May, 2015
From Northville, Michigan, Brian is a senior at Grand Valley State University
working towards two degrees in film/video and business management. He is a
VIP ambassador for the university seizing the opportunity to improve his public
speaking skills. After numerous internships and freelance work for companies and
non-­‐profit organizations around the West Michigan, he seeks to gain practical
experience in the project management field. Brian was recently awarded a film
and video grant from GVSU for his work on a pair of promotional videos for the
city of Hart, Michigan. His skills include strong interpersonal communication,
project planning, and leadership. In his free time Brian likes to run, wakeboard,
and photograph nature.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
start a production company dedicated to educating people
about the risks of heart disease and stroke.”
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teams
CHAMPIONS: Dr. Jaideep Motwani
Jean Nagelkerk, Ph.D., FNP
MENTORS: Mark McClusky
Chuck Stevens
TEAM 2
Joe Kosten
Major: Liberal Studies
Graduation Date: December 2014
Joe was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and has grown up in the Greater
Grand Rapids area. He attends Remembrance Reformed Church, and is a
young man of faith. He is working to complete the final steps of his education
at Grand Valley State University where he is majoring in Liberal Studies with
an emphasis in Sports Marketing. Joe has carried a passion and had a fanaticism
toward sports and competition since he was very young. He hopes to translate
this passion into his future career. His specific career goals are still developing,
but he is excited to see what God’s plan has in store for him!
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
my own sports talk radio show; I’ve been told I have a face
for radio.”
Amelia Parenteau
Major: Supply Chain Management
Graduation Date: December 2015
Amelia is from Milford, Michigan, and is a supply chain management major at
Grand Valley State University. She became interested in purchasing from her
experience at Pollo Tropical where she shadowed members of the purchasing
and research and development departments. She is an honors student on the
executive board of her sorority, Delta Zeta. She hopes to find a purchasing job
in Grand Rapids or in Metro Detroit to gain experience in the field. In her free
time, Amelia loves playing tennis, running, reading, and taking pictures.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would be
a purchaser for an international department store and
travel.”
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teams
CHAMPIONS: Dr. Jaideep Motwani
Jean Nagelkerk, Ph.D., FNP
MENTORS: Mark McClusky
Chuck Stevens
TEAM 2
Joe Walker
Major: Master of Business Administration
Expected Graduation Date: Winter 2015
Joe Walker has lived in Grand Rapids for over 20 years, and is currently in
his fourth semester as a Grand Valley State University student in the MBA
program. His interest in project management stems from the critical role it plays
in the change management process, specifically with companies implementing
new enterprise resource planning systems. In his current job, he works with
entrepreneurs, assisting them with the challenges associated with starting and
growing their businesses.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
a marketing agency in the entertainment industry.”
Sindhura Vaddi
Major: MBA, Management of Technology and Innovation
Graduation Date: December 2014
Born and raised in Hyderabad, India, Sindhura has BS in computer science
and worked for four years with Infosys Technologies Limited. She held several
positions at Infosys, which include software engineer, development team
coordinator, QA analyst, and test lead. She is a senior at Grand Valley State
University majoring in management of technology and innovation and is a
graduate assistant with GVSU’s Finance department. She became interested
in project management while working as an intern for Blue Medora where she
assisted the IT project manager with project planning. She would like a job with
a local company managing IT projects, so she can get enough experience to test
for her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. In her free time,
Sindhura enjoys cycling, cooking, and food photography.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would like
to start my own software as a service IT Company.”
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teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Michael Murray, J.D.
MENTOR:
Richard Friedrich
John Haley
Major: BA Financial Management
Graduation Date: May 2016
John Haley is a junior at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan. He is the
fourth of six children in his family. He grew up in Grand Rapids, MI, attending
Immaculate Heart of Mary Grade School and Grand Rapids Catholic Central
High School. John is currently studying financial management and will someday
start his own business. He plays on Hillsdale’s football team as a wide receiver.
His personal interests consist of family, friends, sports, and outdoor activities
including camping, biking, and hiking.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would buy
a lottery ticket. Afterwards, however, I would start my own
investment company.”
Thomas Krueger
Major: Marketing Management
Graduation Date: May 2015
Thomas Krueger is from South Bend, Indiana where he graduated from Marian
High School in 2011. Thomas is also a member of the Hillsdale College Football
team and plays defensive back. In the future he would like to pursue a career
in medical sales. His personal interests include playing other sports in his free
time, reading, traveling to different parts of the country, watching movies, and
hanging out with friends.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
become an actor.”
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teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Michael Murray, J.D.
MENTOR:
Richard Friedrich
Craig Lewellyn
Major: BA Political Economy
Graduation Date: Spring 2015
Craig is a junior student-athlete at Hillsdale College from Louisville, Kentucky.
He is majoring in political economy. He first became interested in project
management while working as an intern for Congressman Thomas Massie.
He worked with the congressman’s home district staff in organizing projects
for him while he was away in Washington, D.C. Craig hopes to find a job on
a congressional staff in Washington after he graduates, and wants work on
legislative projects where his project management experience will benefit him.
Craig plays football at Hillsdale and enjoys all kinds of physical activities outside
of athletics as well as studying history in his free time.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would run
for a seat in Congress.”
Kegan Smith
Major: BS Financial Management, Minor: Chemistry
Graduation Date: December 2015
Kegan is the starting tight end for the Hillsdale Charger football team. He
hails from Gladwin, Michigan, and graduated salutatorian from Gladwin High
School. He is looking to gain project management skills so that he can run
a successful business of his own. Some of Kegan’s personal interests include
spending time with his family, boat building, and a variety of water sports.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would sail
around the world on a boat that I built.”
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teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Michael Murray, J.D.
MENTOR:
Richard Friedrich
Joe Snyder
Major: BA Economics, Minor: Business Administration
Graduation Date: May 2014
Joseph ( Joe) Snyder is a senior student athlete at Hillsdale College, who grew up
in Northville, Michigan. Joe has started for the Hillsdale College football team
for the past two years. He is the current president for Delta Sigma Phi, and is
also the treasurer for the Gordie Foundation. Joe combines his great leadership
skills with a hard working competitive attitude. The past two summers he
has spent his time interning at Executive Wealth Management in Brighton,
Michigan and at the Senate Fiscal Agency in Lansing, Michigan. Joe hopes to
find a career in the business world as a financial analyst/business consultant, but
he is not limited to either. In his free time Joe enjoys working out, fishing, and
watching sports.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
a settlement on the moon.”
Trevor Tidswell
Major: Accounting, Minor: Chemistry
Graduation Date: May 2015
Trevor Tidswell is from Spring Lake, MI. He is pursuing a bachelor of science
at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, MI. He is working towards accumulating 150
credit hours in order to take the CPA exam. Trevor is a member of the Hillsdale
Charger Football team on which he plays wide receiver. Football has instilled in
him a work ethic that he applies to everything he does. His personal interests
include spending time with family and friends, being an active member of his
church, watching and playing sports, and outdoor activities such as hiking and
skiing.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would play
a one-on-one game with Michael Jordan.”
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teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Doug Friend, PMP
MENTOR:
Joe Griffin
Michael F. Lessens
Major: BS, Project Management and Administration
Expected Graduation: June 2015
Born and raised in West Michigan, Michael now studies project management
while working as a mentor at ITT Technical Institute. He has been a member
of the National Technical Honor Society, has led teams in communications
and internet networking, and has maintained excellent attendance records
while at ITT Tech. He is considering working with both for-profit and nonprofit organizations to troubleshoot computers at reduced costs. Michael is
experienced in networking, written communications, and public relations. His
military background includes service in the United States Army from April 1985
to January 1997 as a print journalist, broadcast journalist, and a public relations
specialist. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant and attended leadership
training schools.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
write several books based on interviews with a variety of
subjects in entertainment, politics, business, and religion.”
Mary McIntosh
Major: BS Project Management
Graduation: December, 2014
Mary was raised in Grand Rapids, MI and graduated from Creston High School.
She has an AAS in computer networking systems that she completed at ITT
Technical Institute and is currently pursuing her BS in project management.
She became interested in project management during her capstone project class
at the end of her associates degree. She also completed classes in supervision
and accounting at Grand Rapids Community College. Mary is a member of
the National Technical Honor Society and would like to find an internship in
the project management field. She is currently a full time caregiver for her two
elderly parents and a full time student. In her spare time she likes to read, do
needlecrafts, cook, and do puzzles of any kind.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would like
to start a no-kill animal sanctuary or my own consulting
agency.”
43
teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Doug Friend, PMP
MENTOR:
Joe Griffin
Steven Minogue
Major: BS, Project Management Administration
Graduation Date: June 2014
Grand Rapids, Michigan native Steve Minogue is in his fourth year at ITT
Technical Institute where he holds a 3.97 GPA majoring in project management
administration. While working with engineers on prototypes as a quality
assurance technician for companies like Bosch, Bissell Inc., Laser Dynamics,
and Haworth, Steve discovered that he has a knack for new product launch
planning and project management. Currently at Haworth, he hopes to grow
within the company, helping to roll out new product designs at the production
level. In his free time, Steve enjoys biking, traveling, and coaching youth sports.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
a winery, and build it into a solid family business.”
Elizabete Saukas
Major: Drafting and Design Technology A.A.S.S.
Graduation: June 2015
Elizabete was born and raised in Brazil. She came to the United States in 2011.
She is married to David Saukas, who is a 20-year Navy veteran. In Brazil, she
earned an undergraduate degree in international affairs and an MBA in project
management. Currently, Elizabete works in social media moderation and is
preparing to take her CAPM certification. In her free time, she loves to read,
bike, travel, and spend time with her husband, family and friends.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
a successful, pet-orientated business.”
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teams
CHAMPION: Dana M. Johnson, Ph.D., CQE, CQA, CMQ/
OE, CSSGB, CPA, CMA
Tom Conquest
MENTOR:
Angela Barr
Double Major: BS, Management/Marketing
Graduation Date: May 2014
Angela is currently a senior at Michigan Technological University in Houghton,
Michigan. She is originally from Negaunee, Michigan where she attended
Negaunee High School. Angela has worked approximately 60 hours per week
throughout her college career to personally fund her education. Working,
staying involved on campus, and balancing a full-time academic schedule has
really perfected her time-management skills, and has made her believe that with
a little hard work, she can achieve anything. Angela is energetic, a team player,
exceptionally outgoing, and very passionate about everything she does. She is
excited to have the opportunity to participate in THE Project 2014!
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
non-profit organization to help people and families who
have suffered from domestic violence.”
Destin`e Clark
Double Major: BS, Operations and Systems Management / Marketing
Graduation Date: May 2014
Destin`e is currently a student at Michigan Technological University in
Houghton, MI. She is originally from inner city Detroit, where she attended
Frank Cody High. She believes that it is at Michigan Tech that she is gaining
the knowledge and experiences needed to pursue her career goals in the
field of supply chain and logistics. She tends to stay focused on her studies,
however when she has free time it is usually spent participating in activities
with her sorority sisters or volunteering with Michigan Tech’s Mind Trekkers
organization. Destin`e does not know what all the world has in store for her, but
she is prepared to find out!
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships and
mentors to high school aged children.”
45
teams
CHAMPION: Dana M. Johnson, Ph.D., CQE, CQA, CMQ/
OE, CSSGB, CPA, CMA
Tom Conquest
MENTOR:
Min Li
Major: Operations and Systems Management
Graduation Date: May 2014
Born and raised in Hunan, China, Min is a transfer student from Hunan University
and a senior at Michigan Technological University majoring operations and
systems management. Before he went to college in 2009, he worked as a car
salesman for three months. Last year, he worked at Michigan Tech Mont Ripley
for the whole winter season, and he is also working there this year. He was vicechairman of the Students’ Union at Hunan University and is working in the
Chinese Students Scholars Association of Michigan Technological University.
In his free time, Min enjoys the violin, cars, and digital products.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
my own formula one race car team.”
Cole Smith
Major: Business Management
Graduation Date: December 2014
Upon graduating from Iron Mountain High School in 2010, Cole has pursued
a bachelor’s degree in business management from Michigan Technological
University. He has been involved with the International Business Ventures
business team by helping to develop a low-cost ventilator for developing
countries. This team is also competing in the Michigan Collegiate Innovation
Prize competition. Cole has served at Michigan Tech as vice president of
operations for its accounting students organization, and was involved with the
Dean’s Student Advisory Council. He is hoping to build off these experiences
to gain successful employment and a promising career.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
invest every penny I earn in the stock market.”
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teams
CHAMPION: Dana M. Johnson, Ph.D., CQE, CQA, CMQ/
OE, CSSGB, CPA, CMA
Tom Conquest
MENTOR:
Robert Strobel
Major: BS, Engineering Management and Mechanical Engineering
Graduation Date: May 2014
Robert is currently a senior at Michigan Technological University. He became
interested in engineering management after completing a co-op at Tyco Fire
Protection where he worked as a mechanical engineer for two semesters and
as an intern for the following two summers. On campus Robert works part
time for Michigan Tech in IT Services as a design tech, where he helps design
lab layouts using AutoCAD and GIS software. He also has experience in user
services. Robert has passed the fundamentals engineering exam in mechanical
engineering and is interested in pursuing a PMP certification. In his free time,
Robert enjoys running, basketball and restoring old vehicles, guitars and amps.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would start
an engineering consulting firm.”
Shivaram Viswanathan
Major: MS, Electrical Engineering
Graduation Date: May 2015
Shivaram is pursuing his graduate studies in electrical engineering at Michigan
Technological University. Specializing in the field of advanced automotive
technologies, he is proficient in software and hardware engineering and is an avid
automotive enthusiast. He gained valuable professional experience in the field of
automotive embedded systems for two years with Bosch India. He is interested
in applying project management skills to improve factors like time-to-market
cost, quality, and customer satisfaction. Shivaram is a good team player. He has
worked with international teams with peers from India, Germany, The United
States, and China. He is looking for a challenging career in the engineering field
which will provide the necessary platform to showcase his skills in technology
and management.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
develop and market a new mode personal transportation
to reduce traffic congestion in crowded cities.”
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teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Brian Gleason, MBA
MENTORS:
Jeff Hazy
Melissa Powell
Dawn Crofoot
Major: BS Business Management, Accounting Focus
Graduation Date: March 2014
With 20-plus years of management experience in the food industry, Dawn
realized that her management skills would be greatly enhanced by earning a
bachelors in business management – something she accomplished in March
2014 while working two jobs and maintaining a 3.69 GPA. Dawn has the
ability to solve problems and motivate people to accomplish their business
goals. Her goal is to find a challenging job in the management field. She looks
forward to diving into the world of business management with excitement while
acknowledging that failure is not an option. Involvement in the WMPMI
Projects for the past two years has given her an opportunity to learn the proper
steps that project managers must take to solve problems in the field.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would help
people realize their goals of success through motivation of
their wants and needs, so they become more than what
they think they are.”
Ronald J. Couts
Major: BSB, Project Management
Graduation Date: February 2015
Ronald J. Couts, a senior at the University of Phoenix, majoring in business
management, is currently a plant production coordinator for Linear Corporation
in Grand Rapids, Michigan. His position is to facilitate a smooth flow of
communication with production and the supervisors. He also oversees shipping
operations and coordinates with the lines in the plant. During his experience
in the United States Navy, Ronald provided inventory support for his fire team.
His current degree program focuses on project management, and he hopes to
secure a position using these skills.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would open
a consulting firm on improving company performance and
travel the world.”
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teams
CHAMPION: Mr. Brian Gleason, MBA
MENTORS:
Jeff Hazy
Melissa Powell
Justin Remigio King
Major: Bachelor of Science, Marketing
Graduation Date: March 2015
Born and raised in Holland, Michigan, Justin is a full time student at the
University of Phoenix at the Grand Rapids, Michigan campus. He is currently
working on his bachelor’s degree in marketing. He works full time at Hillshire
Brands Co. in Zeeland, Michigan as a security officer. Justin always had an
interest in the sports entertainment / wrestling industry. Marketing plays a
fundamental role in the sports entertainment industry from consumer products,
digital media, live and televised entertainment, and sales and sponsorships. He
wants to find a job in marketing with a well-known local or fortune 500 sports
entertainment company to pursue his career. In his leisure time Justin enjoys
watching World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) live and televised events,
playing video games, spending time with family and friends, and trying new
indoor or outdoor activities to keep an active lifestyle.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would
start my own sports entertainment wrestling company to
compete with the WWE.”
Theodore Robert St. James III
Major: Master of Business Administration
Graduation Date: April 2014
Theodore is a 15-plus year retired United States Navy Veteran. Throughout his
military career, he obtained experience, management, and leadership skills. After
his military service, he continued to progress as he finished an undergraduate
degree in health care administration graduating with a 3.96 GPA, and presently
working to achieve his MBA maintaining a 3.85 GPA. Currently employed
with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Theodore works with
veterans using Telehealth technologies. His goal is to obtain a management
position with a company where he can provide superior sustained business,
management, and technological innovations. In his spare time, Theodore enjoys
fishing, cooking, and spending time with his family.
“If I could do something with no risk of failure, I would own a
charter fishing fleet where I would take groups out fishing. Any
fish not wanted by the group would be used to feed the homeless
and those less fortunate. A certain percentage of the earnings
would also be donated to help support veteran organizations.”
49
So, You Think You Have a Project?
By Ken Ruehrdanz, Dematic
Introduction
You may have a clever name for it by now, like ―The Order Fulfillment Modernization Project, or ―The Distribution Center of
the Future. Whatever you are considering undertaking, think of it not as a physical task, but a process to impart positive change
into your company. Dematic has been instrumental in thousands of large and small logistics automation projects. Our refined
practical design methodology ensures that projects make sense, go well, and deliver the results that are expected. In other words,
we ensure that the implemented solution performs as promised.
Why Use This Methodology?
The process that Dematic developed is a simple but effective 5-Phase program that takes a motivated client from concept to
ownership. The process was created with the following attributes in mind:
•
•
•
Scalable—Your project may include adding 25 feet of conveyor to an existing warehouse or it may be the development of a 2
million square foot automated e-fulfillment distribution center. This process can be scaled for a broad continuum of size and
complexity.
Practical—There is no single right answer when conducting design. The levels of fit depend on your company culture, your
customers, and your economy. This process flexes to accommodate those variables.
Recyclable—This process has a beginning but no end. It is intended to be an ongoing, dynamic part of your operation. It will
continue to serve your company as you later refine your cost of ownership, consider modernizations, and re-mission your
assets for changes in your business.
The phases of the process are as follows:
Phase 0—Realize the Need for Change
The Owner or Sponsor has a mathematical, physical, or emotional epiphany that a project is worth considering and a charter for
the business case is developed.
Phase 1—Analysis
This preliminary stage is often referred to as the Feasibility Study / Concept Study. This is when requirements are gathered;
scope and budgets are estimated; the business case is generally defined and presented for approval; and when one or more
reasonable approaches may also be identified.
Phase 2—Solution Design
This design engineering phase involves the refinement of the requirements to one best-fit solution that has both technical and
business work breakdown structures defined.
Phase 3—Engineer
Subject matter experts (SMEs) are utilized to perform the detailed engineering of the designed solution. This often involves
manufacturing, software, mechanical, CAD, electrical controls, and systems engineering SMEs.
Phase 4—Implement
This phase is the deliverable milestone. It includes installation, testing, and launch of the best-fit solution designed in the
project plan. Upon sign off, the project is now completed and the infrastructure is placed in operations. Since our project is now
in operations, the sponsor now realizes positive return on their investment presented in the project charter.
Phase 5—Manage, Lifecycle Support
Being a good parent of a technology-based solution means both care and feeding in operations, as well as keeping things
current, which requires a design effort in itself.
Conclusion
The overall 5-Phase project process is also referred to as a Design-Build approach. Throughout, the project manager and client
work in lockstep within a seamless process from charter to project acceptance. Design-Build is a Client-Partner (Integrator)
relationship based on trust and performance. The process commits resources to consultative non-biased design engineering. It
supports excellent performance and is accountable to deliver the optimal design.
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wmpmi.org
The Business Journal is a proud supporter of
THE Project and this year’s student teams.
SPONSORS
51
NOTES
52
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NOTES
53
NOTES
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wmpmi.org
Where Project Managers
Go to Manage Their Careers
Davenport University is a leader in educating
Project Managers. We offer outstanding learning
opportunities including:
BS Technology Project Management is a
120-credit major that prepares students for
leadership positions in the project and technical
management areas
•Mandatory Internships
•Transfer friendly
•Specialization in the IT and Accounting areas
•Option to take PMI Certification Prep Course
•Robust career services support
Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Global
Project Management is an 18-credit program
preparing bachelor degree holding professionals to
get project management specific training in areas
like scheduling, agile, cost, quality, risk and even
the PMP Prep.
Credit and non-credit prep courses for the
CAPM and PMP exams through PMI.
MS Technology Management is a 39-credit
interdisciplinary program that combines technical
and business curriculum that provides graduates
a competitive advantage.
Davenport University is a Registered Education
Provider with the Project Management Institute.
For more information, go to davenport.edu/PMP or call 800-686-1600
Get where the world is going
Solutions from Receiving to Shipping
Engineered systems built on...
process improvements, material handling automation and software
Dematic designs, builds, and life cycle supports logistics solutions that optimize material and information flow
— from receiving to shipping, within the four walls of the factory, warehouse, or distribution center.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Design, build, support
Optimize material & information flow
Consider impact on supply chain
Non biased, data driven solution approach
Manual to fully automated
Responsible for system performance: overall solutions, sub-systems, products
Dematic is dedicated to improving logistics results. To that end, we guarantee successful system performance.
Visit www.dematic.us or call 1-877-725-7500 to learn how we can
create logistics results for your organization.
Creating Logistics Results