Tamara McLemore, a renowned project management expert and founder of Tamara McLemore Enterprises, recently appeared on the Women in Engineering podcast with host Tiffani Teachy. In the interview, Tamara shared invaluable insights for women aiming to advance their careers through PMP certification.
Key takeaways from the conversation include:
- The transformative power of PMP certification in boosting career confidence
- Debunking common myths surrounding PMP eligibility requirements
- Strategies for leveraging partial project experience in PMP applications
- The importance of mindset in overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt
In the episode, Tamara, who has over 20 years of experience in project management, emphasizes the significance of recognizing one’s existing project management skills when filling out a PMP application.
“A lot of people think that they had to have had the title of project manager to get it. That is so false.” McLemore states. “Having experience is what matters. You need three years of experience if you have a degree and five years of experience if you don’t. That’s it.”
Tamara advises women in engineering and other fields to focus on identifying their project management experience, even in unexpected places. She highlights that experience from various roles and industries can qualify for PMP certification, encouraging listeners to reframe their professional history through a project management lens.
The conversation also addresses the gender gap in PMP applications. Tamara notes, “Men don’t have this problem. If men did 20 or 30% of the work, they’re gonna apply for their PMP application. They’re gonna get approved. They’re gonna sit for the exam. Meanwhile, women, we’re trying to get more than enough experience. You don’t get points for extra credit. So, ladies, keep it simple. ”
To listen to Tamara McLemore’s appearance on Women in Engineering, visit: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/women-in-engineering-success-stories-from-stem-professionals/id1709191260?l=fr-FR
About Tamara McLemore
Tamara McLemore, PMP is the founder of Tamara McLemore Enterprises, an executive consultant, certified Project Management Professional (PMP) Instructor, and a sought-after award-winning speaker. Her expertise lies in coaching mid-career professional women, empowering them with the necessary skills, confidence, and language to obtain their PMP Certification and secure significant career advancements.
Through her PMP Exam 2-Week Intensive where she has successfully shortened the traditional preparation timeline, enabling candidates to pass their PMP exam within 30 days (a process that typically takes 6-8 months). This accelerated timeline not only aims to achieve certification but also to position women in the careers they truly deserve.
With a wealth of experience spanning over 25 years in various industries including technology, federal government and aviation, Tamara has risen from being a project manager to now serving as the chief impact officer (CIO) of her own company. Tamara’s expertise has been recognized through her appearances as a guest on the Women Of Project Management® and the Harvard Business Review, Women at Work podcasts and has been a keynote speaker at prestigious events such as the Women of Project Management Conference, AE Ignite conference, and the Wonder Women Tech summit. She is also a LinkedIn Top Voice In Project Management. Additionally, she has shared her knowledge by teaching project management at universities and organizations worldwide, including appearances in India and Dubai.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Tamara enjoys traveling extensively and lives by the motto: “To be a Service to All Mankind.”