Kevin Darnell has only just begun his academic journey in project management. The husband and father is pursuing his CAPM® certification, which requires a minimum of 23 hours of project management education. He chose Florida Tech’s 100% online project management certificate courses to complete the educational requirement as well as to increase his earning potential in his organization.
Darnell recently completed his first certificate course, Mastering PM Concepts: A PMBOK® Guide Study. We asked him about his experience in this new certificate program.
Tell us about your background.
I am originally from Tucumcari, New Mexico, but my wife and daughter moved here from Portland, Oregon to pursue a better way of life as a family.
What were the most important factors in your decision to choose Florida Tech?
I was originally attracted to Florida Tech because of the course, its availability and the fact that the course was offered over six weeks, which gave me the opportunity to absorb the knowledge at my own pace. Additionally, I work full-time and have obligations at home, so online was the best option for me.
How will your Florida Tech project management certificate make a difference in your career?
The certificate I earned will enable me to accept a higher paying position within my company. Furthermore, having opened the door to higher education, I am now motivated to pursue even greater challenges.
Do you have any future plans with your certificate?
I plan on taking more courses and gaining more certifications with Florida Tech. Having those will make me more promotable.
What surprised you most about the online program?
What surprised me about online education was the amazing way the courses are laid out. The format made learning easy and fun. The course was outlined in an interesting, thought-provoking way that kept my interest.
What was your most valuable takeaway from the certificate course?
Management and leadership skills.
What advice would you give other students who are considering enrolling in the program?
Do it now! Don’t hesitate, don’t wait. Make yourself a priority. Make yourself stronger and smarter so that you can help others and yourself.
Who has been your support system?
My wife is my support system. She made this all possible and took on more responsibilities at home while I studied.
What was the most challenging part of your student journey?
The fear of failure. Once I accepted that I will not fail and that I am smart enough to grasp these concepts, everything became easier. Sometimes in life, we are our own worst critics.
Who or what inspires you to succeed?
My wife and daughter are my greatest inspirations. I want my daughter to see that anything is possible if you focus and give 110%.
What is one fun fact about you?
I was a licensed massage therapist for six years.
CAPM and PMBOK are registered marks of the Project Management Institute, Inc.
Have you completed one of Florida Tech’s online programs? We would love to share your success story in our Student Spotlight series. Contact us at studentspotlight@bisk.com for additional details.