25 Feb PM Profiles: Meet Kim Sawyer
Criterion’s program managers play a critical role in helping our Federal government customers meet their mission objectives. Each brings a unique perspective and background to their jobs, a combination of technical expertise and problem-solving capacity that helps Criterion develop and implement creative solutions to the challenges our teams face every day.
Today, we would like to profile Kim Sawyer, a program manager supporting one of Criterion’s Department of Energy (DOE) task orders. Kim is an accomplished, certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Scrum Master (CSM) with experience aligning business goals with sustainable technology solutions for the private and public sectors. She has managed programs for the FDIC, National Science Foundation, National Cooperative Bank, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Department of the Treasury. Kim has an MBA from the University of Maryland University College and a BS in business information systems from Virginia State University.
- What would you consider is your key subject matter expertise?
I consider leading and managing projects/programs as my subject matter expertise. This expertise goes beyond IT. I also use this skill doing volunteer work for non-profit organizations. Furthermore, I am an adjunct professor at the University of Maryland Global campus, where I teach Project Management II to undergraduates.
- What is an important lesson learned in that area that you apply frequently to add value to your customers?
A valuable lesson I learned early in my career as a project manager is to expect and adjust to the many projects, corporate, and customer changes.
- Do you have a particular approach to solving problems?
My approach to solving problems is first to analyze the situation to obtain a clear understanding of why this is a problem. I then research various solutions, consult with those who may have more knowledge about the situation than me, and then execute the best possible solution to the problem.
- What drives you? What is the key to your success?
Results drive me. I like to do things right the first time, so I encourage my team to work smart. I am a stickler for meeting essential deadlines and delivering a valuable product or service.