David Daugerdas ⋅ Palatine, IL IBM ⋅ 36 years experience

Thanks for your service. My company offers internships; our definition of a student is "candidates pursuing graduation in a formal education program. Students must be enrolled at an accredited (or recognized) college, university or educational institution and work for the company as part of their academic program or during vacation/breaks/holiday periods (i.e. co-ops, interns, etc.). " If this fits your situation, please contact me offline.

Tom Vlasic ⋅ Carmel, IN U.S. Navy Reserve, Commander ⋅ 28 years served

Wesley,
What do you need the experience for? To get the Certification from SU or for some other reason? Depending on the need there are multiple ways to either show (if past experience is acceptable as with the PMI PMP cert) or get experience if you need additional experience. Some have been mentioned here. Volunteering is another way - either with an organization, you already work with or find one that needs some help. "Projects' aren't some magical effort - with 24 years in the Army you have participated in and probably led many projects. I've helped many people get their PMP certifications and can provide some specific guidance depending on your need.

Best regards,
Tom, PMP

Damin Kirk ⋅ North Charleston, SC Boeing ⋅ 21 years experience

Hi Wesley -

I would almost certainly believe you have the experience in your background that can translate into Project Management experience. I was in a similar boat when I transitioned out. Your certificates or certifications are nice but practical experience rules the day and the Military gives you some of that experience. Feel free to PM me.

Damin

Les Cohn ⋅ Boynton Beach, FL Coverall North America ⋅ 25 years experience

Hi Wesley,

Deb's suggestion that you connect with the local PMI Chapter is a great one. There is a Chapter in your area, the PMI Hampton Roads Chapter. https://pmihr.org/ They have a career resources and professional development opportunities available. Their next chapter meeting is on February 13 at The Westin Virginia Beach Town Center
4535 Commerce Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.

Please feel free to contact me for any additional guidance.

Best of luck!

Les

Adam Couch ⋅ Ladera Ranch, CA Socium Security ⋅ 20 years experience

I'd look at small businesses that are likely looking for help but can't afford it. They might be able to quickly offload some tasks from overallocated employees. It creates a mutually beneficial relationship, builds your network, and gives you the experience you're looking for. Worst case - you finish your assignments and they can't bring you on. Best case - the sky is the limit but maybe they offer you a position. In either case, you get experience added to your resume and progress forward. It'll take some searching and networking to find these companies though. Also, consider Internships.com. More poles in the pond increase the chances of catching a fish.

Best of luck to you!
Adam

Deborah Carter ⋅ Owens Cross Roads, AL Raytheon ⋅ 28 years experience

Hi Wesley,

Check with the college career services and alumni organizations since some advertise opportunities and have programs to help alumni become successful post program and/or certification.

You may also want to look in your local area for professional organizations and join a chapter. The Project Management Institute (PMI) has chapters all over the world.

Consider volunteer work where you can put your skills to work and report the experience on your resume. Your local church, parks and recreation and arts organizations, and perhaps homeowners association all undertake projects that require planning, schedule, budget and execution.

Good luck!
Deb