Articles

Spotlight on Program Volunteers

by Deborah Ketai, PMP, PMI-RMP

SNEC has many dedicated volunteers—members just like you!—who channel their enthusiasm and PM talents into producing webinars, in-person networking events, and programs at local colleges and universities.
In this issue, we’re featuring two of our AVPs.

Rick Caudill heads up one of our four “satellites” (the committees that plan and host online programs). Named for the geographic area where it originated, the Springfield satellite typically schedules virtual meetings on the first or second Tuesday night of the month, offering topics like artificial intelligence and influencing without authority.

In his work life, Rick is a technical project manager in the defense and government contracting industry. He manages large-scale IT projects, leads cybersecurity initiatives, and oversees network administration in both federal and Department of Defense environments.

He says, “I volunteer with SNEC PMI to give back to the project management community and to stay connected with like-minded professionals. Through hosting monthly events, I've had the opportunity to learn from others, share my own experiences, and expand my network of those who are blazing the trails in the forefront of project management.”

Fun fact: Rick co-founded a craft beer and wine shop and ran it for ten years.

Like Rick, Pratik Dahule volunteers “to give back to the profession while enhancing my leadership, project management, and collaboration skills.”

A business project manager in the utilities and energy industry, Pratik leads a new but quickly growing committee that produces in-person networking meetings for SNEC. His intrepid volunteers have already held two events and will hold two more before the end of the year. Keep an eye on your inbox and the SNEC Event Calendar for further details!

In August, Pratik debuted as a speaker, presenting a well-attended webinar on The Future of Project Management—Harnessing AI for Strategic Impact.

Fun fact: He runs marathons in his spare time.

Here’s another fun fact: You, too, can join one of our six programs committees! It’s easy: Simply apply through PMI’s Volunteer Engagement Platform or email [email protected].