Amber Masterson

…is a seasoned tech professional with over 15 years of experience in the industry, with roles ranging from QA Engineer to Scrum Master. Known by one of her teams as “the glue that held the team together,” she has a proven track record of fostering collaboration across distributed teams and time zones. Amber currently works in 3rd party vendor management at bioMérieux, where she builds strong partnerships and helps the company maximize the value of its external technology solutions. She continues to champion agile values and promote cross-functional collaboration across disciplines. Amber is also passionate about personal growth and is often described as a renaissance woman for her wide range of interests. Outside of work, you’ll likely find her composing music, rappelling through canyons, biking in the mountains, or soaking up the sunshine on a long walk.

Bahaa Chmait

... is an experience designer on a mission to end loneliness one shared experience at a time. He believes the world needs more human connection so that we can all live more joyful lives.

He has designed team-building experiences for organizations like Hilton Hotels, eBay, and the Sundance Institute, blending play, purpose, and human connection. Bahaa is a TEDx speaker and uses storytelling and movement to inspire audiences to lead with authenticity and connect more deeply—with their teams and with themselves.

He believes experience design isn’t just a tool—it’s a movement toward a more connected, joyful world, built through the moments we intentionally create.

Presentation

CLOSING KEYNOTE: The Joy of Project Management – Designing Experiences That Stick

(Blending Experience Design, Project Management, and the Power of Human Connection)

What if project management wasn’t just about processes and checklists, but about designing experiences that people engage with, remember, and feel connected to?

In this dynamic, high-energy keynote, experience designer Bahaa Chmait blends the principles of project management and experience design, showing how the best-run projects don’t just meet deadlines—they create moments that bring teams together, spark collaboration, and leave a lasting impact.

Through compelling storytelling, audience interaction, and immersive activities, this talk will inspire project leaders to think beyond execution and start designing for engagement—because when projects are built with connection in mind, they don’t just succeed in the moment, they create stronger PM teams and deliver lasting value to the client long after the project is complete.

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Brett Barker

... is a passionate educator and highly effective one-on-one coach dedicated to empowering individuals and teams to achieve their full potential. As the Chief Learning Officer at Inclusive Agile, he designs and delivers programs that promote psychological safety, inclusion, and collaboration.

Brett’s coaching has directly impacted neurodivergent professionals and underrepresented groups, helping them navigate challenges and thrive in their careers. An experienced instructor, he developed and taught a in-depth software testing course at Utah Valley University, achieving an 80% job placement rate for graduates. Brett is committed to fostering environments that inspire growth, learning, and meaningful connections. 

Presentation

Psychologically Safe Feedback: Why Your Retros Are Failing

This workshop introduces the core skills behind giving and receiving feedback in ways that create psychological safety. We explore why feedback often goes sideways in Agile teams and offer a practical, interactive framework for making it land in a way that builds trust and collaboration. Great for Scrum Masters, team leads, and anyone who's ever said, "we did a retro, but nothing changed."

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Brian May

...is the CFO of Nicholas & Company, where he began as VP of Finance in 2018. He previously served as a Regional Controller at Boral Resources and started his career in public accounting with Grant Thornton. Brian has worked with a range of multinational companies in manufacturing and tech and is a licensed CPA in Utah.

He holds both a BS and master’s degree in Accounting from the University of Utah, where he received the Outstanding Scholastic Achievement and Leadership Award. Earlier in his career, Brian founded and sold a carpet cleaning rental business, Thermax of Utah.

Committed to community service, Brian served on the Board of Directors for Odyssey House from 2014 to 2020 and has supported local initiatives through the Mountain West Capital Network and Women’s Tech Council.

Presentation

Panel:  Lessons from the C-Suite: Driving Value Beyond Project Delivery

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Presentations

The Emotionally Intelligent Project Manager: What Does EQ Have To Do With Scope, Schedule and Budget?

Effective project management depends on both technical skills, like budget control, schedule planning and scope management, and people skills.  Our relationships with people have a significant impact on how well we succeed at applying our technical skills.  Emotional intelligence, sometimes referred to as “EQ,” helps us understand our own emotions, the emotions of others, and how our emotions affect our professional and personal relationships.  As we emotional intelligence competencies, we are better able to develop and maintain strong working relationships with those who impact the success of our projects and not only complete projects more successfully but also enjoy more rewarding relationships with those around us. 
 

The Project Manager as Change Leader 

Projects are wonderful things: they create something new and useful and have a defined start and end.  But they can be even more effective if they are created and managed as part of a broader change initiative.  Project managers who see themselves as change leaders—and work to incorporate their projects into a broader change framework—can have a greater impact on enabling their projects to endure longer and to have a lasting impact on their organizations.

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Dr. Carl Canlas

Dr. Carl Canlas current research focuses on traditional and agile project management, self-driving technologies and cybersecurity audits. He has consulted with Fortune 1000 companies to develop tools and processes for leadership development, effective project management and agile auditing. Dr. Canlas holds multiple industry certifications including ISACA CISA, ISC2 Cybersecurity, PMP, PMI-ACP, ITIL, and Six Sigma Black Belt.

Presentation

Navigating Project Roadblocks: Strategies for Success
Effective project management requires the ability to identify, analyze, and overcome roadblocks that can impede progress. This presentation outlines key strategies for navigating project roadblocks to ensure successful project outcomes. Early detection and prioritization of roadblocks are essential, as is understanding their root causes. Engaging stakeholders and fostering collaboration can lead to innovative solutions. Adjusting resources and breaking down large problems into manageable tasks can help maintain momentum. Clear communication and thorough planning are critical to prevent and address issues proactively. By learning how to implement these strategies, project managers can navigate challenges effectively and achieve project success.

Chris Colosimo

...the Founder and Principal of CMJ Prospectives.  With more than 25 years of experience in business and cultural transformations, strategic leadership and organizational change management under her belt, you’ll find Chris and her team at the intersection of strategy and execution. Chris is trusted by brands and businesses worldwide to identify the true root of costly bottlenecks, improve employee experience and activate lasting solutions that accelerate business forward. If there’s one thing she understands, it’s people ─ what makes them tick, what helps them thrive, and how to active teams at scale to unlock performance. She is an expert at finding practical solutions to complex problems while infusing fresh energy into even the most critical business issues. Her ability to lead with consistent, creative, and unquestionable care has made her a highly sought after strategic partner in all business ventures. 

Chris' work has spanned across a variety of industries including: Mining, Aerospace & Defense, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Technology, Construction, Beauty + Wellness, and Outdoor Recreational Products. Chris holds a Bachelors of Science in Education, Masters of Science in Adult Education and a Masters of Science in Organizational Development from Utah State University. She is a member of Association of Change Management Professionals, Utah TribeHouse Executive Leaders, faculty member for the Women’s Leadership Institute and holds several professional certifications and Board Member positions.  

Presentations

Panel: Lessons from the C-Suite: Driving Value Beyond Project Diversity

Panelists: Chris Colosimo, Brian May, Gia Dowling and Quincy Chapman (President PMINUC and CEO of AdaptogeniQ).

Moderator: Denee Hayes

Successful project and program managers do more than deliver on time and budget—they drive lasting business value. In this dynamic panel, Nicholas and Company’s CFO and Executive VP of People and Culture, along with their external Organizational Change Management partner, will share what the C-suite truly expects from project leaders.

Currently leading a full-scale business and technology transformation at Nicholas and Company, these executives will offer real-time perspectives on managing complex change. Don’t miss this chance to learn about their recent experience and which lessons from previous projects have shaped their current approach. You will also have a chance to ask for advice or insights about your current projects or how to differentiate yourself from other PMs.

Joining the panel is Quincy Chapman, President of PMI Northern Utah and CEO of AdaptogeniQ. With deep C-suite experience, Quincy will offer unique insights into the evolving role of the Program Office and how project leaders can deliver greater value to executives across the organization.

Gain insights on communicating with executive stakeholders, integrating financial strategy, and managing projects for long-term impact. Learn how to navigate change, keep teams engaged, and ensure sustainability beyond delivery.

Whether you’re managing projects at a tactical level or influencing strategy, this session will equip you with the executive perspective needed to elevate your leadership and maximize your impact.

Workshop: Beyond the Bottleneck: Sort your way out of a stalled project

Christine Chapman, PhD

... Christine L. Chapman, PhD resides in Draper, Utah with her husband and daughter and volunteers as VP of Outreach for PMI Northern Utah Chapter. Christine is passionate about positively affecting interpersonal relationships to engage professionals in all fields and industries through using education and instruction to foster organizational belonging. In her current role as Assistant Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Westminster University, she is devoted to cultivating an environment of inclusive excellence through curricula, programs, policies and student and faculty engagement.

Presentation

“A Seat at the Table” Collaboration/Inclusion: Lead the Way – Embracing Diversity
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) has begun to lose steam, as its message has become convoluted in mainstream politics, legislation, and business initiatives. PMI continues to Lead the Way by reiterating a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion toward promoting collaboration within the project profession. This presentation will discuss the key components of creating an inclusive PMI Culture, defined as a community-wide agreement of how we collaborate and the mindsets and behaviors we choose, by laying the groundwork of creating a sense of belonging within workplaces and teams. Key definitions will be explored and the PMI DEI Playbook will be brought to life with provided real-life examples of not only what DEI is, according to PMI, but also how to foster environments of inclusion: i.e. helping participants ensure that their organization’s leadership, employees, team members, and other stakeholders have a seat at the table.

Key Definitions:

• PMI Culture
• Diversity
• Equity
• Inclusion
• Collaboration

PMI DEI Playbook*:

• Phase 1 – Awareness
• Phase 2 – Understanding
• Phase 3 – Adoption
• Phase 4 – Ownership
• Phases 1-3 fosters collaboration and engagement and increases participation (as others begin to feel seen and heard)

*Each phase will include examples of how non-inclusive actions cause harm and how to affect change through 2 questions: 1) What do we know? 2) How can we grow?

Corissa Peck

... is a respected technologist and culture strategist with deep roots in software and quality engineering leadership—most of it earned inside high-stakes Fintech environments. As the CEO of Inclusive Agile, she equips financial and tech organizations with the systems, tools, and mindset shifts needed to scale innovation and inclusion. Corissa has led engineering teams through product launches, audits, and transformations in heavily regulated sectors, and now partners with executives to build psychologically safe, high-performance environments where great ideas actually survive contact with reality. Backed by an MBA and nearly two decades of technical leadership, she speaks with authority on what it takes to transform not just products—but the people who build them.

Presentation

Inclusive Agile 101: Agile Isn’t Agile Without Inclusion

Agile practices often assume teams can adapt quickly and communicate openly—but what happens when some team members are marginalized or simply wired differently? This session reframes inclusion as a core competency for agility, not an add-on. We explore how neurodiversity, team culture, and psychological safety impact Agile effectiveness, and introduce tangible steps to improve inclusion on any team. 

...is Director of Operations Systems in IT with 14 years of experience leading technology initiatives and cross-functional teams in the transportation industry. She’s helped guide everything from small process improvements to large-scale enterprise projects – including the successful migration of 4200 trucks to a new platform in under a year. Danielle is passionate about helping project managers make sense of emerging tech, especially AI, and believes anyone can lead change with the right tools and mindset.

Outside of work, you’ll find her playing keyboards in a band or wrenching on one of her Mustangs – because life’s too short not to have a hobby that goes fast and makes noise.

Presentation

AI and Project Management: Leading the Change [Download Danielle's Presentation Here]
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept – it’s here, transforming how we manage projects, streamline workflows, and make data-driven decisions.  But how do project managers harness it without getting lost in the buzzwords?  Think of AI as the ultimate intern: fast, eager and sometimes needing a little guidance.  In this session, we’ll break down AI’s evolution, explore how businesses are already leveraging it to drive efficiency, and discuss why not all AI tools are created equal.  We’ll cover the difference between pre-built and custom AI models, when fine-tuning is necessary, and how to choose the right tool for the job.  And because project managers need more than just theory, you’ll walk away with practical AI prompts to boost productivity and streamline decision-making.  Whether you’re an AI skeptic or already experimenting, this session will help you stay ahead of the curve – and lead the change instead of reacting to it.

Dave Durocher – Executive Director, The Other Side Academy

...is the Executive Director of The Other Side Academy, a two-year residential program that helps individuals overcome addiction, criminal behavior, and homelessness through a peer-run model built on truth, love, and radical accountability. Before co-founding the Academy in 2015, Dave had been sentenced to over 23 years in prison and served 15 of them. After being accepted into Delancey Street in Los Angeles instead of returning to prison, he transformed his life—eventually becoming the Managing Director of their 250-person facility.

Since launching The Other Side Academy in Salt Lake City, Dave has received national recognition for his leadership. He is the recipient of the Community Service Award presented by NBA legend Jerry Sloan, the Silicon Slopes Community Hero Award, and Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2018. His most recent honor is the National Community Service Award from the Fraternal Order of Police. The Academy—run by ex-felons and former addicts with a successful moving company—has been featured in The New York Times, four books, and multiple magazines.

Presentation

Truth, love, and radical accountability

The Other Side Academy is a long-term residential program that helps men and women break free from lives of addiction, crime, and homelessness—without relying on government funding or clinical treatment. In this presentation, I will share who we are, what we do, and how we transform lives through a unique peer-driven model rooted in truth, love, and radical accountability. Students learn to live with integrity, earn trust, and develop the skills needed to become productive, self-sufficient members of society. By fostering a culture where honesty is non-negotiable, love is tough and unconditional, and accountability is embraced—not avoided—we create an environment where lasting change is not only possible but inevitable. I’ll share real stories of transformation, explain how our vocational training businesses support the program, and demonstrate how our core values are the driving force behind one of the most successful recidivism-reducing programs in the country.

Denee Hayes

... is a seasoned expert in the delivery of projects that connect people to the heart of the change for long term project sustainment. She brings over two decades of expertise across various industries. As the Founder and Principal of Bijih Resource Consulting, she drives transformative change and delivers exceptional value to clients through her people first approach to digital optimization, change management, operational effectiveness, and Agile methodologies.

Known for her dynamic leadership and ability to cultivate high-performing teams, Denee is a sought-after speaker and thought leader with her practical wisdom and engaging insights in project management. She is a trusted advisor as a Senior Fellow for the College of Science at the University of Utah. She has served on several prestigious boards, including the Alumni Board of Governors at the University of Utah and the editorial Advisory Board of Utah Business Magazine. Denee holds a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering, is a safe agilest and is PROSCI certified along with several professional certifications. Her passion for collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement makes her an invaluable asset to any project she consults on.

Denee Hayes | Linkedin

Presentations

Panel:  Lessons from the C-Suite: Driving Value Beyond Project Delivery

Beyond the Bottleneck: Sort your way out of a stalled project

Did you join Chris and Denee's gamification session last year?  If so, this workshop builds directly on those foundations! You've already mastered identifying individual resistance points - now we're scaling up to removing the bottlenecks and roadblocks from your project.

Haven't attended before? No problem! This standalone session welcomes both returning and new participants interested in innovative change management approaches using gamification.

Actions focused on your bottleneck

Derek Oaks

... Colonel (retired) Derek “Woody” Oaks is a keynote speaker, author, and leadership/airpower consultant with over 30 years’ experience as a pilot, leader, commander, program manager, executive, senior consultant, author and speaker.

He is a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, combat pilot, instructor, author, and business leader. A 1991 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, he flew over 5,200 hours in 30 aircraft, including 800 combat hours, and commanded at the flight, squadron, and group levels. 

Since leaving the Air Force, Derek has served on Boards, led multiple small businesses, consulted with both large and small business, taught flight training and acted as a Defense Department Subject Matter Expert and trainer. He co-authored “Rising Above” with his father, General Robert C. Oaks, and is currently working on a book on leadership at all levels called, “The Confident Leader—Building a Culture of Confident Decision-making”.

Derek’s leadership education began at the feet of his parents who mentored he and his 5 siblings while his dad served in leadership positions culminating as the commander of Allied Air Forces Central Europe in the early ‘90s. His personal leadership journey began as a teenager in multiple youth organizations, then as a cadet, missionary, and finally ‘for real’ as an Air Force officer. He is convinced his mistakes of leadership are among his greatest gifts because of what they taught him, and how they continually prepared him to lead at the ‘next level’.

Derek has been married to Preot for over 33 years and they are the parents of 4 children.

Derek can be found at www.derekoaks.com.

MILITARY DECORATIONS:

• Legion of MeritBronze Star Medal
• Meritorious Service Medal with five oak leaf clusters
• Air Medal with seven oak leaf clusters
• Aerial Achievement Medal with 1 oak leaf cluster
• Joint Service Commendation Medal
• Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters
• Joint Service Achievement Medal
• Meritorious Unit Award with 4 oak leaf clusters
• AF Outstanding Unit Award with Valor Device and 7 oak leaf clusters
• Combat Readiness Medal with 5 oak leaf clusters
• National Defense Service Medal with 1 device
• Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
• Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 1 device
• Global War on Terrorism Service Medal

Presentations

KEYNOTE: THE CONFIDENT LEADER": Helping Confident Leaders Build Empowered Decision-makers

The essence of leadership—instruction—Is a vision with a path to get there, trust in the ‘student’ as they learn the skills, then a method of learning from mistakes and successes alike.

Leaders are able to dramatically grow their organizations by providing:

• A clear vision and embedded objectives
• Trust of their team that empowers them to take ownership of the vision
•  A perpetual debrief environment that allows for continual improvement

Learning Objectives

• Understand the most important job of a leader—to provide vision
• Learn how to become a confident and forward-looking leader by trusting your team with your vision and allowing them to take ownership of that vision
• Understand the difference between a debrief and criticism
• Understand the key components of a focused debrief
• Apply vision, trust and debrief to your organization for specific growth objectives

Workshop: Your Own Personal Vision—How the Personal Vision Makes the Team Better [Handout]

We’ll discuss the value of mission, vision, strategy and goals, and present a ‘how-to’ for developing a personal vision statement that will enable greater personal and professional growth. We’ll discuss how a vision statement, when aspirational in nature, helps each of us look past our obstacles and challenges towards a greater realization of self and organization.   

Learning Objectives:

• Understand how Mission, Vision, Strategy and Goals fit together 
• Initiate a personal Vision statement  
• Break down a Vision statement by individual roles 
• Understand how to create goals and objectives that get you closer to your Vision 
• Understand how a team can marry personal vision with an organizational vision for the betterment of both 

Gaëlle Batot 

Originally trained as a scientist, Gaëlle Batot transitioned into project management five years ago, inspired by the tools and strategies she wished she had for her scientific endeavors. Since then, she has developed expertise in leading cross-functional teams, driving innovation, and delivering impactful results. Now a Program Manager in the medical device industry, she combines her scientific knowledge with her PMP-certified leadership skills to empower teams and navigate complex projects. Her French roots add a unique flair to her approach—and her accent! Outside of her professional sphere, Gaëlle is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys running, hiking, and camping with her dog, as well as unwinding with books and TV shows. 

Presentation

Be the Hero: Pop Culture Lessons for Visionary Project Leaders 
Some projects can feel as daunting as a dragon’s lair, requiring bold leadership to inspire teams, innovate, and drive meaningful change. What if your favorite fictional heroes could guide you? Pop culture offers vibrant examples of complex projects, unexpected challenges, and visionary leaders who empower others. From Gandalf’s wisdom in "The Lord of the Rings" to Hermione’s resourcefulness in "Harry Potter" and the teamwork in a D&D campaign, these stories reveal essential project management principles. Together, we'll explore how icons from books, movies, and TV shows—like Trevor Noah’s wit, Adam Grant’s insights, or Harry Dresden’s resilience—can inspire you to embrace leadership, ignite innovation, and create impact. Step into the role of a leader who empowers others and “leads the way” to transformative results! 

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Gia Dowling 

...is the Corporate Vice President of People and Culture at Nicholas and Company, where she has worked since 2016. With over 25 years of HR leadership experience, she has led people strategies across industries including UCLA, Universal Studios, DreamWorks, and Sundance. Gia is known for aligning goals, fostering transparency, and building high-performing teams.

She holds a Business Administration degree from Westminster College and is a certified graduate of the UCLA Professional Development Program. Gia has served on several nonprofit boards, including the Santa Monica–Malibu Education Foundation and the Park City Education Foundation.

Gia lives in Park City, Utah, with her husband Michael, their three kids, and a few rescued dogs. In her free time, she enjoys running and biking.

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Jeff Lund

...is a project management enthusiast having worked as a technical project manager, product manager, and in various leadership roles.  Jeff has worked with a number of local, national and international companies in various industries. 

Jeff provides corporate and conference trainings on various career management, project management and leadership topics.  Jeff is also a board member of the PMI Northern Utah chapter and part of the board executive committee. He holds a BS degree from the University of Utah, an MBA from Westminster University, and a number of certifications including PMP, CSM, Lean Greenbelt and ITIL. 

Presentation

Stepping into Leadership

In this session Jeff will peel back the curtain and share with you strategies and steps you can follow to increase your chances of moving into your next leadership role.  Whether you’re experienced or new in your career, these proven activities will give you a plan to help you in your career journey.  Moving into leadership is a little luck and a lot about being intentional in your steps to achieve your career goals.  Let’s get you started on your leadership journey. 

Kip A. Davis

Kip A. Davis is the principal consultant at The Project Realm where he supports managers and project practitioners in their goals to build positive productive project capabilities and environments. Kip has bachelor and MBA degrees. 

He has decades of experience in small to large organizations that has included side consulting throughout that time. He has had multiple roles as a project practitioner conducting client software and hardware implementations, running multi-year enterprise software product development and market launches, Product Manager, CRM Administrator, PMO Manager, Director, and has created and/or managed multiple PMOs and Project Portfolios. 

He has earned multiple certifications in and around the project realm including, Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Certified Product Owner, Prosci Change Practitioner, Business Architect, and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. 
 
He enjoys his family, gardening, studying business and enjoys helping people & organizations get unstuck from business situations that can seem impossible.

Presentation

Become a Leader in Your Project Environment
Project leadership can take multiple forms. This class will cover five leadership principles illustrated in real life examples. We will investigate approaches that you can take to become a leader or enhance your leadership abilities and influence. Learn how to leverage your project position to help people build skills and capabilities. We will dive into ways that you can drive positive change on your projects and in your work environment, inside and outside of your work group. We will discuss how you would handle a few impossible situations. And perhaps discover new ways that some impossible tasks have been resolved. You will get to consider approaches and strategies to lead your team and your organization forward. And of course, we will aim to have some fun in the process.

Liz Brown

... is the Director of the Corporate Program Management Office at bioMérieux’s Salt Lake City site, leading a team of eight Program Managers and Project Coordinators. A PMP-certified leader with an MBA in Technology Commercialization, Liz began her bioMérieux career in 2009 in HR, playing a key role in the successful launch of the FilmArray molecular diagnostic system by ensuring the right talent was in place. She later made the best career decision—transitioning to Program Management, where she now has a decade of experience leading high-impact operational, strategic, and process improvement projects. Outside of work, Liz enjoys traveling, cross-country skiing, trail running, and spending time with her husband, two kids, and golden retriever puppy, Honey—who may actually be in charge. 

Presentation

Stop Chasing Your Tail: Lead with Strategy and Purpose.

 A well-trained dog doesn’t just fetch whatever is thrown their way—they anticipate, adapt, and lead. The best project managers do the same. If you find yourself buried in endless tasks without a clear strategic impact, it’s time to stop chasing your tail and start leading the pack.

In this interactive and dynamic session, you’ll explore how to elevate your tactical project execution to strategic leadership—guiding projects beyond simple task completion to delivering lasting business value. Through self-assessment and organizational analysis, we’ll uncover where we stand today and what shifts are needed to align projects with broader business goals.

Just like a well-trained dog responds with purpose, a strategic project manager ensures that every initiative moves the business forward—rather than just running in circles. Join us to unleash your leadership potential and take your project management skills to the next level! 

Matt Wagner

Matt specializes in leading projects that intersect operations and digitization. With a strategic mindset and a focus on personal relationships, he reimagines how companies can utilize user-centric digital technologies to maximize value during organizational transformation. As the founder of Panoramic Solutions and a Solutions Architect, Matt leverages his extensive experience to drive innovation and efficiency. His expertise in integrating cutting-edge technologies with operational processes ensures that clients achieve their strategic goals and maintain a competitive edge in the market. 

Presentation

From Foundations to Future: Effective Project & Portfolio Management 

Foundations 

In this first part of the presentation, we will explore the essential building blocks of Project Portfolio Management (PPM) that lay the groundwork for an effective Project Management Office (PMO). We will dive into the three foundational components: 

• Intake & Governance: Establishing clear processes for project intake, prioritization and approvals. 
• Project Management: Implementing standardized methodologies and tools for managing projects. 
• Program & Portfolio Management: Aggregating project data for portfolio rollups and alignment with strategic goals. 
• By establishing these core elements, organizations can pave the way for future PMO maturity. 

Future 

We will then explore various future enhancements that build upon these foundational components. Some of these areas that can elevate your PMO include: 

• Intake & Governance: Integrating with upstream systems like Salesforce CRM to streamline the project intake processes. 
• Project Management: Incorporating agile tools like Jira into traditional project management practices to create a hybrid approach. 
• Program & Portfolio Management: Implementing resource allocation and capacity planning, along with other analytics, to enhance decision-making and optimize project outcomes. 

Join us to discover how these foundational components can evolve and drive your organization's project and portfolio management success. 

Michelle Schumann 

...brings over 18 years of experience in project and program management, as well as teaching. She holds a PMP (2016), CSM (2017), an M.S. in Management and Leadership, and a B.S. in Business Management & Administration. A dedicated member of PMI Northern Utah since 2013, she currently serves as VP of Finance on the Board of Directors. 

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Michelle is supported by her husband, son, daughter-in-law, and her newest source of joy—her grandson. She loves playing with her two energetic dogs, Apollo (Husky) and Athena (German Shepherd), off-roading in her Jeep, and traveling to explore new cultures and landscapes. 

Presentation

From Doubt to Drive: Conquering Burnout and Imposter Syndrome

Burnout and imposter syndrome don’t just affect our work—they shape our confidence, motivation, and overall well-being. In this session, we’ll explore how individuals in project management and beyond can recognize, address, and prevent these challenges. Discover practical strategies to build resilience, foster self-trust, and create a mindset that supports sustainable success in both career and life.

Michael J. Berry, CSMC, CSPRO, CSSM, CSSPO, PMP, PMI-ACP, PMI-PBA, ISTQB-CTFL, CSM, CSPO,

...is the CEO and Chief Trainer for Red Rock Research. He has worked in the software development industry for over 25 years prior to starting a training company 17 years ago. He is an expert in both Agile and plan-based development methodologies and has developed courseware and teaches in all areas of software development. What sets Mike apart from other software coaches is that he has a technical programming background and has programmed multiple world-class applications. Mike wrote bank teller software that was deployed at over 2500 branches in five states. He led a team that wrote medical EMR software that was deployed in over 600 medical facilities in the United States. Mike wrote a global product lifecycle tracking system that is deployed in numerous countries on four continents. In addition to holding numerous certifications, Mike is also a John C. Maxwell Leadership Coach, and is the creator of the Stable Framework, a quality system for the IT community.

Presentation

The Three Levels of Project Management

As we navigate the complex landscape of modern business, it's time to rethink our approach to project management.  For too long, cowboy-style spreadsheets and manual tracking methods have held us back. It's time to bring in the professionals. 

Project Management Professionals (PMPs) can deliver a significant (about 20%) lift in efficiency and effectiveness. By leveraging industry-recognized best practices and tools, they can streamline processes, reduce errors, and keep projects on track better. 

But that's not all - Operationally Excellent project management takes it to the next level. By identifying and eliminating hidden factory problems, teams can reclaim an average of 35% of their effort, freeing them up to focus on delivering exceptional results. This means faster time-to-market, increased customer satisfaction, and a competitive edge in an increasingly complex market. It's time to saddle up with the pros - let's ride into a brighter future of project management excellence! 

... is a seasoned project manager and technology strategist with a strong background in leveraging digital tools to enhance learning and collaboration. With extensive experience leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects, she has specialized in digital transformation, user experience design, and the implementation of innovative learning technologies.

After a successful career in technology and project management, Nycole transitioned into community management, focusing on fostering meaningful connections and collaborative experiences. Now, she applies her expertise to designing and facilitating engaging team experiences, blending technology with community-building to drive impact and engagement.

Presentation

Beyond the Job Title: How Project Management Can Elevate Any Role
In today’s fast-paced work environment, professionals across various industries are expected to manage tasks, collaborate effectively, and meet deadlines—often without formal project management training. This presentation explores how individuals in non-project management roles can benefit from adopting project management tools and methodologies to enhance productivity, organization, and teamwork.

The session will cover essential project management principles such as goal-setting, task prioritization, workflow optimization, and stakeholder communication. It will also introduce popular project management tools like Trello, Asana, and Microsoft Planner, demonstrating how they can be applied to day-to-day work. Through real-world examples and practical applications, attendees will learn how to integrate structured project management approaches into their roles, regardless of their official job titles.

By the end of the presentation, participants will gain actionable insights into streamlining their work processes, improving efficiency, and fostering a more organized and collaborative work environment.

... is a 30-year Information Technology professional who has worked for Fortune 50 companies, non-profits, and small businesses. Reed speaks fluent agile and coach’s companies on using lean approaches. He enjoys teaching and instructs part time for the University of Utah. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Boise State University (go Broncos!) and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from prestigious George Fox University. When he is not managing people, process, projects, or presenting, you will find him in his garage turning wrenches on engines and transmissions or restoring VW Beetles. 

Presentation

Game-Changing Leadership: What Project Managers Can Learn from Unconventional Coaches
When the stakes are high and the clock is ticking, great leaders don’t play it safe—they rewrite the rules. In this interactive session, we’ll explore how bold leaders like Herb Brooks, Phil Jackson, Vince Lombardi and others broke with convention to build resilient, high-performing teams. You’ll get quick-hit stories that highlight the heart of each coach’s approach, unpack the strategy behind their success, and connect the dots to real-world project management lessons you can use right away. Throughout the session, we’ll dive into how to view leadership through a fresh lens, explore team-building techniques that go way beyond trust falls, and share ideas that will help you lead like a coach—not just manage a plan.

This isn’t your typical sit-and-listen presentation. Bring your phone to join in on live polls, quick challenges, and fun feedback moments that will keep you engaged and thinking. Whether you’re a seasoned project leader or just getting your team off the ground, you’ll leave with practical takeaways and a new playbook for success.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Identify key leadership traits and team strategies used by unconventional sports coaches that contributed to their teams’ success.
• Translate sports-based coaching principles into actionable project management practices for building and leading high-performing teams.
• Apply new approaches to team dynamics and motivation, including how to foster team chemistry, resilience, and adaptability under pressure

Come curious. Leave inspired.

Staci Warne PMP, MCT

...is a PMP-certified project manager, MCT - Microsoft Certified Trainer, and Certified AI Specialist. She specializes in helping professionals integrate AI, Microsoft Project, and workflow automation to streamline processes and improve productivity.  

As a partner with RMC Learning Solutions, Staci teaches PMP and CAPM certification courses, equipping professionals with the skills needed to pass their exams and advance their careers. 

She is the author of Working Smarter with Microsoft Project and Working Smarter with Microsoft Outlook, offering practical strategies for improving efficiency and workflow. 

Staci began her career at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco as a Financial Analyst and Lead Technology Trainer, where she became an expert in business software, particularly Microsoft Excel, helping staff improve efficiency and productivity. Since then, she has spent over 15 years as an independent corporate trainer, working with thousands of military personnel, business professionals, and corporate teams nationwide. 

She is passionate about empowering business professionals to harness AI tools, transforming the way they work by enhancing decision-making, streamlining workflows, and boosting productivity in today's fast-paced digital world. 

📍 Join Staci at the PMI Conference to explore practical AI strategies, Microsoft Project insights, and expert PMP exam tips to transform the way you manage projects! 

Presentations

Whether you're new to Microsoft Project or looking for a quick refresher, this class will help you work smarter, not harder. By the end, you’ll be so proficient that you might even plan your next vacation with it!   Join us and “Lead the Way” with Microsoft Project—ensuring every project starts strong and stays on course. 

Master AI in Project Management with PMI Infinity 

Stay ahead in project management by harnessing the power of PMI Infinity and Artificial Intelligence! In this dynamic 45-minute session, you'll discover how PMI Infinity can revolutionize your workflow with AI-driven insights, seamless integration with PMI’s vast knowledge base, and reliable, expert-backed responses tailored for project managers. 

This session includes a live demo, key feature breakdowns, and practical prompting techniques to help you maximize the benefits of this cutting-edge tool. Whether you're looking to improve project outcomes, enhance efficiency, or drive professional growth, PMI Infinity equips you with the right technology to lead with confidence. 

AI is transforming project management—don’t get left behind! Join us and be part of our "Lead the Way" campaign, embracing AI-driven innovation for project management excellence. 

Steve Ostermiller

...is a business agility guide helping organizations maximize value and minimize risk. He is the founder and executive director of Utah Agile, a non-profit community of 2,500 professionals elevating agility for businesses, technology, and individuals in Utah and beyond. He developed and taught agile project management curriculum for post-secondary institutions and was technical editor of Pearson Education’s Agile Foundations Complete Video Course. Steve is co-author of both Agile Project Management For Dummies and Scrum For Dummies, and is a speaker at international and regional conferences. 

 Steve's expertise comes from years of successes and failures as a project manager, product manager, executive, scrum master, agile coach, trainer, and consultant. He has worked with executive leadership and product development teams in a variety of industries on the Fortune lists. He is also a Scrum Alliance Certified Scrum Trainer (CST) and Certified Agile Leader 2 (CAL 2), ICAgile Certified Professional in Coaching (ICP-ACC), Project Management Professional (PMP), and holds a B.S. in Business Management/Organizational Behavior from the Marriott School of Management at Brigham Young University. Steve also holds several certifications in scaling, including Large-Scale Scrum (LeSS), Scrum@Scale, Nexus, and Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe). 

Presentation

Why NOT Scrum?

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