Spotlight on PMI Central Indiana Chapter

Chartered in 1988, PMI Central Indiana Chapter (PMICIC) has been a longstanding pillar for the project management community. With more than 1,500 members, this chapter is one of the largest in the United States. Overseeing the organization is Kelly Sandstrom, who stepped into the presidential position at the start of 2025.  

Kelly Sandstrom joined the PMI Central Indiana Chapter in 2015 and has been an active volunteer since 2020. Backed by four vice presidents, Kelly leads a passionate team, committed to advancing the chapter's mission:  

'To advance the profession of project management and positively impact Central Indiana by providing professionals, students, and organizations with the tools, certifications, and networks they need to achieve excellence in project success and career growth.' 

After talking with Kelly, it became apparent how important community is amongst the chapter with her emphasizing the importance of a collective effort explaining "how it takes a village" and expressing her gratitude for everyone's hard work.  

One of the primary goals of Kelly's two-year term is to further develop the chapter's community pillar. The aim is to create a social, welcoming space members feel invited into. The chapter isn't just a place to gain Project Management qualifications but a chance to network and build friendships.  

One way the leadership team seeks to achieve this is by introducing a mentorship program, which allows people at all career levels to get involved and contribute. This program connects experienced project managers with those new to the field or seeking certification, promoting professional growth and strong networks within the chapter. 

Additionally, the chapter is expanding its reach by focusing on two key groups. Firstly, the chapter aims to encourage student membership (for any students reading, it is worth noting that the PMI offers a generous student discount).  By connecting with student clubs, the chapter provides resources and serves as a local connection for job seeking and mentoring, supporting students throughout their career journeys. 

Secondly, the chapter encourages individuals without PMP certifications to join. To increase value delivery for this group, the chapter has begun offering study groups. Halfway through their first cohort, the initiative has been a success, with a waitlist ready for the next cohort.  After one in-person meeting to get to know each other, the study group meets virtually for 5 weeks with each week covering a specific topic. While the chapter provides test questions and other light resources, the objective is for the peer group to support each other in gaining the certification through sharing best practices.  

In addition to fostering a sense of community among their own members, the chapter also supports the larger Indiana community. Aligning themselves with the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals, the chapter engages in what they term social impact. Members are provided with opportunities to volunteer and positively impact their wider communities. In 2024, they partnered with Midwest Food Bank, packing food boxes for the organization to distribute.  

Previous initiative included raising funds for the Boys and Girls Club of Indianapolis and volunteering at the Salvation Army Central Indiana Area Command's Coats for Kids program. With a director of social impact appointed this year, many more worthwhile initiatives are sure to come.  

A key benefit of developing connections between members at PMICIC is the opportunity to learn from each other. Kelly explains, project managers are often put into "a role of informal influence and are responsible for motivating a team of people that they don't directly manage". Project management requires strong interpersonal skills, and through networking and building connections, you can develop these soft skills.  

Additionally, the role of 'project manager' is continuously growing and evolving. Amidst the debate between agile and waterfall framework methodologies, Kelly highlights that an emerging theme is "the idea of adaptability and flexibility". Rather than forcing a methodology, a project manager should apply critical thinking and use what works best for the project. By engaging with a larger project management community, you can stay informed, be exposed to different perspectives, and exchange ideas on best practices. 

The PMI Central Indiana Chapter is dedicated to helping project management professionals develop their skills. By fostering a strong sense of community, the chapter ensures that members have the support and resources they need to succeed. 

There is a low barrier to entry, ensuring everyone is welcome with discounts available to those who need it. Discover more here.