Leading through change, not just checklists

At Central Michigan University’s College of Business Administration, project management isn’t about memorizing process charts. It’s about developing the mindset, leadership, and confidence to navigate real-world complexity—and help others do the same.

Whether in case-based classes, simulation exercises, or cross-functional team projects, students in the project management curriculum are learning how to lead with purpose. They’re taught to ask better questions, stay aligned through uncertainty, and build trust with every decision.

“Project management is rapidly evolving to keep pace with the demands of the business world’s project economy,” said Kevin McCarron, project management coordinator and faculty member. “This requires faculty to be ever vigilant of these change demands and have our curriculum reflect that. We do that through routine curriculum updates, use of the latest information directly from PMI (Project Management Institute), text updates, use of materials from PMI authorized training partners, and simulation partners.”

Rather than rigid task-tracking, CMU’s approach emphasizes adaptability and outcome-focused planning. Students explore how to define value, assess risk, coordinate stakeholders, and pivot when priorities shift—all key skills in today’s fast-moving industries.

‘Leading together’ through challenge and change

“I would say leading and navigating the class project has taught me how to implement vision with practical execution, especially when coordinating diverse teams and making decisions under pressure,” said Ashley Mavhurume, a graduate student from Harare, Zimbabwe, and President of Central Michigan University's Project Management Chapter. “It is not always easy trying to cater to everyone’s needs and making sure that they get the support they need, but I have a very good support system I work with, and I think of it as leading together.”

From group dynamics to big-picture strategy, Mavhurume said the experience challenged her to think critically, adapt quickly, and stay grounded in collaboration. “This experience mirrors the real-world complexity requiring collaboration, adaptability, and strategic planning, which has strengthened my confidence as a project leader.”

 From class to competition

Students who want to take their learning even further can get involved in the Project Management Chapter—an RSO within the College of Business that hosts events, workshops, and real-world simulations like the Agile board game.

This year, chapter members are participating in theProject™ 2026, a regional competition hosted by the Western Michigan Project Management Institute. The challenge: develop a strategy to launch a $50 million outpatient healthcare facility, balancing construction, digital enablement, and stakeholder demands—all within budget, on deadline, and under pressure.

“Competitors in this challenge have gained a powerful understanding of how classroom concepts come to life when applied in a real, high-pressure project environment,” Mavhurume said. “The competitive setting empowered the students to think more strategically, collaborate more effectively, and manage ambiguity with confidence.”

A solid foundation for career success

By combining academic knowledge with experiential learning, students graduate prepared—not just to manage projects, but to lead them.

“Project management is a highly competitive field, and programs like this give students a powerful head start,” Mavhurume added. “They offer an educational, hands-on experience that builds confidence, sharpens real-world skills, and creates lifelong learning that supports a strong career launch”.

At CMU’s College of Business Administration, project management isn’t just a tool. It’s a foundation for leadership—and a differentiator for students ready to act in a changing world.