Let’s Meet Paul Bruno…

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From the making of the Jeep to the sinking of the Titanic, Paul Bruno shines a light on the past to find valuable lessons for today’s project leaders. “I love helping make the future happen,” the author, consultant and trainer says.

Paul, how did you get into project management? I transitioned into project management from an executive position in 2001 after holding various jobs in information technology, including personal computer support, systems programmer and information systems auditing.

What do you love most about the work? The ability to positively impact an organization and help that organization move forward through the implementation of projects.  Projects always represent change, and I love helping make the future happen.

What do you find most challenging or frustrating? Given projects represent change, the most challenging or frustrating aspect revolves around dealing with the “people issues” that always accompany these endeavors. However, these challenges and frustrations also represent an opportunity to help individuals, and I prefer to focus on that.

How has Covid-19 impacted your work? The fundamentals of project management have not changed, but executing those fundamentals remotely has required some adjustments, including quickly learning the nuances of being effective in virtual meetings.

What's your proudest professional achievement? The publication of my two books on early Jeep history, The Original Jeeps (2020) and Project Management in History: The First Jeep (2014).

What's the best piece of advice you've received or can share? Two, from Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People. First, don’t criticize, condemn or complain. When followed we have more room for positive thoughts. Second, remember that a person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any language. I always try to call everyone I encounter by their name.

How has ProjectManagement.com helped you in your work and career? PM.com has proved an excellent resource to network with fellow project managers, and to keep up with the latest news and trends in the profession. It offers superb webinars and other resources to earn PDUs.

What interests or hobbies do you have outside work? History, of course, and in particular, United States, European, military and political.

Favorite TV show, artist, movie? Star Trek, Tom Hanks and Castaway.

Best vacation? Hawaii, and visits to U.S. National Parks dedicated to history and Presidential libraries.

Thanks you Paul!

To connect with Paul Bruno and find links to his PM History Lessons series on ProjectManagement.com, visit his profile.