How to become a Project Manager?

Outline

This guide is for members, as defined in Member Definition, who are curious and interested in becoming a Project Manager.

What is a Project Manager?

Before becoming a PM, you must know what a PM is. A PM is someone who leads a technical project in a subteam and they are responsible for breaking down the project into achievable tasks which are to be delegated amongst the subteam. Of course, a PM may also take on some tasks that they wish to. Specific responsibilities are outlined in Project Manager Responsibilities.

How do you become a Project Manager?

There is no concrete list of requirements that you need to follow. However, there are certain characteristics that subteam leads look for when selecting a PM. If you are curious, the PM selection guide for WARG leadership team is in Project Manager Promotion Criteria

In general, here are a list of actions and traits that could help you become a Project Manager:

  • attend subteam meetings regularly (missing one or two is no big deal)

  • take on tasks and deliver well within reasonable deadline

  • do not be afraid to ask questions

  • suggest process improvements

  • be a team player, help out members when they ask

  • highly encourage attending flight test and integration meeting to interact with other PMs, leads of other subteams, and directors

Â