Matt Lee – VP, Operations

Biographical Statement:

I’m a seasoned program and operations leader with a strong background in infrastructure, systems development, and cross-functional team management. With over 20 years of experience, I’ve led enterprise-scale initiatives across sectors, blending strategic thinking with operational discipline. I’m passionate about mentoring others, driving continuous improvement, and building strong communities. Volunteering with PMI gives me a meaningful way to give back while collaborating with professionals who share my values.

Qualifications:

I bring extensive experience in program management, strategic planning, and operational leadership. I’ve led high-impact initiatives that improved efficiency and reduced costs, and I’ve consistently developed and mentored cross-functional teams. My collaborative style and analytical mindset support strong decision-making and execution. I’ve actively participated in Fort Worth PMI events and initiatives, and I’m excited to expand my contributions by applying these skills in a leadership capacity to help the chapter grow and thrive.

Action Statement:

As VP of Operations, my goal is to align the chapter’s operational practices with its strategic vision to maximize our impact. I aim to streamline core processes, improve transparency, and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. By implementing practical frameworks and leveraging data-driven insights, I will work to increase productivity and ensure the chapter operates efficiently and effectively. To be successful, I’ll engage closely with volunteers, listen actively, and lead with both empathy and decisiveness. I will also support leadership in delivering high-value experiences for our members, ensuring every initiative serves our shared mission.

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Ben Gonzales – VP, Outreach

Biographical Statement:

I’m a U.S.A.F. veteran program management leader with over 25 years of experience in aviation, defense contracting, and outreach. I currently serve as the Director of Military Outreach for FWPMI by mentoring veterans and organizing workshops that bridge military experience with project management careers. My background includes executive roles at various DoD defense aviation/aerospace companies. I’m committed to building impactful connections through service, leadership, and community engagement. I hold various degrees in Business Administration, Leadership, Operational, and Project Management with a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification.

Qualifications:

As the Military Outreach Director for PMI Fort Worth, I was able to counsel transitioning service members, schedule special training focusing on veteran issues, increase membership to the Military Outreach Team and represent our chapter at national conferences. With more than 25 years of program management proficiency in aviation and defense industry, I have accumulated experience in stakeholder engagement, risk management, strategic planning and operational execution. I believe that my passion to give back and help my Team along the community will qualify me to serve as Vice President of Outreach.

Action Statement:

My role as Vice President of Outreach involves developing stronger connections between Fort Worth PMI, veterans, academic students, corporate collaborations, and underserved professional communities to increase our chapter's impact. The organization will launch specific outreach initiatives to boost participation through joint events with military bases, universities, corporate, and professional organizations that will deliver workshops, certification preparation sessions, and networking opportunities. I will maintain my commitment to mentor transitioning service members through my veteran background and program management expertise to help them achieve project management success.

The success of my work requires me to maintain close relationships with chapter leaders, sponsors, and community partners to ensure outreach activities support our strategic objectives. The implementation of data-driven methods will help me monitor progress while making strategic adjustments to achieve measurable results. The chapter will achieve recognition as an inclusive resource center for project professionals through my dedication to accessibility and sustainable impact. I will lead with integrity, transparency, and a passion for service.

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Bekah Abernathy – VP, Membership

Biographical Statement:

I have been drawn to the concepts of project management for more than 10 years but quickly realized the importance of professional development. This led me to return to school where I served in various roles: President (academic student organization), Student Council member (local), Chapter Coordinator (local), Marketing Committee Member (local), and Co-Chair of a Committee (local). These experiences have honed my skills in relationship building, strategic planning, and fostering community engagement. I look forward to using these skills to contribute to the chapter's continued growth and ensure our members feel valued and connected.

Qualifications:

I have successfully managed projects (professionally and personally) that required extensive outreach and engagement with various internal and external groups, similar to what would be needed for membership engagement. I currently serve as the Director of Administration and Governance on the Board of Directors for PMI's Fort Worth Chapter. I am adept at leveraging data to inform strategy, building strong relationships, and organizing initiatives effectively. These experiences, combined with my passion for PMI, make me confident in my ability to significantly contribute to the Fort Worth chapter's membership growth and retention.

Action Statement:

I believe strongly in the value a local chapter provides – connecting professionals, fostering growth, and building a supportive community. I want to increase membership growth, enhance member engagement, and be proactive with members nearing renewal. I want every member to feel truly connected and to clearly see the benefits of their membership, whether they are a new or a seasoned member.

Membership directly impacts and is impacted by other areas, such as professional development, outreach, and marketing. Through proactive communication and information sharing, all VPs can understand various initiatives, individual goals and explore opportunities where we can support each other to achieve our strategic objectives. My goal is to be a supportive and contributing team member who actively seeks synergy across all board functions to deliver maximum value to our members.

This role is a direct opportunity to contribute to the chapter's growth, ensuring more project management professionals in our area can access these vital resources and find their professional home. I'm excited by the challenge of not just attracting new members, but creating an environment where every member feels valued, connected, and empowered to succeed.

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Jedediah Peters – VP, Communications and Marketing

Biograpical Statement:

As a passionate advocate for clear and compelling communication, I am excited to be a candidate for VP Communications and Marketing. My professional journey spans over a decade in Marketing Communications, Advertising and Media leadership, specializing in strategic campaigns and digital engagement for diverse clients in Banking, Education, Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sectors. Educationally, I hold a Masters in Communications Studies, with a focus on Advertising and Public Relations. Volunteering has always been a core part of my life; I've previously led community outreach initiatives for BBC in their mass Communications media campaigns, honing my ability to connect diverse groups. Personally, I thrive on collaborative environments and am committed to enhancing our chapter's visibility and member value. My goal is to leverage my expertise to amplify PMI Fort Worth's message and foster a friendly, vibrant and impactful community.

Qualifications:

I bring over a decade of leadership experience in Marketing Communications, Advertising, and Media, including running a successful advertising agency and leading major campaigns across diverse industries. My academic background—a Master’s in Communication Studies with a focus on Advertising and Public Relations—provides a solid foundation in strategic messaging and audience engagement.

As an active volunteer with PMI Fort Worth, I’ve developed a comprehensive communications plan aimed at boosting membership, increasing volunteer involvement, and expanding the chapter’s share of voice. I leverage my proven ability to connect with diverse audiences to build community and engagement—skills essential for this role.

My collaborative work style, passion for clear communication, and drive to enhance visibility align seamlessly with the responsibilities of VP Communications and Marketing. My vision is to amplify PMI Fort Worth’s voice and foster a dynamic, inclusive, and professionally enriching environment for all members.

Action Statement:

As VP of Communications and Marketing for the Fort Worth PMI Chapter, my goal is to elevate our chapter’s visibility, deepen member engagement, and position us as the region’s leading resource for project management excellence. I will achieve this through a clear, multi-channel communication strategy focused on consistency, relevance, and accessibility.

Digital Revitalizatio

I will enhance our digital presence by optimizing the website, boosting social media engagement, and launching a professional newsletter. This newsletter will feature chapter updates, member spotlights, and industry trends to keep membners informed and inspired.

Strategic Partnerships

I intend to build strong connections with local businesses, universities, and professional groups. These partnerships will help expand our influence, attract new members, and bring fresh perspectives to our chapter events and initiatives.

Content Creation

Using my background in communications, I will craft compelling stories and promotional materials that highlight member achievements, chapter successes, and upcoming events. These narratives will foster a stronger sense of community and pride within the chapter.

Member Engagement

I will implement clear, consistent communication channels to keep members aware of opportunities, benefits, and events. Our aim is to create a more vibrant, connected membership experience.

Data-Driven Strategy

I will use metrics and feedback to fine-tune our messaging, ensuring content resonates with our diverse audience and aligns with chapter goals.

Through a proactive, collaborative approach, I am committed to making PMI Fort Worth an essential part of every member’s professional growth.

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Sahana Cain – VP, Outreach

Biographical Statement:

At 19, volunteering with the UN to address food security through localized solutions drove me to build community-centered systems. I've consistently led programs across nonprofit, education, and global tech sectors, always prioritizing inclusion, impact, and possibility. Currently, as a Technical Program Manager at Oracle, I enable Engineers to deliver complex solutions by streamlining engagements. As a foreign-born military spouse, I support global community-building as Director of Communications for the FMS Network. Informed by Adlerian psychology, I believe leadership is service, and lasting progress stems from purpose and hope.

Qualifications:

Having had the opportunity to work in 7 countries, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives and collaboration. I hold a Master’s in International Education and am currently pursuing my PMP and a Master’s in AI at Purdue. I serve as a Technical Program Manager at Oracle, NATO Liaison at Sheppard AFB, and Director of Communications for the Foreign-born Military Spouse Network. I also volunteer with a local hospice. I’m committed to continuous learning, thoughtful leadership, and supporting the mission of Fort Worth PMI.

Action Statement:

1. As VP of Outreach for the Fort Worth PMI Chapter, I commit to driving tangible growth and maximizing local impact for project management professionals.

Goal 1: Expand Strategic Outreach to Specific Communities.

• Action: I will establish direct partnerships with educational institutions, military installations, and local veteran support groups, launching targeted mentorship and certification prep sessions.
• Impact: Achieve a 10% increase in target-affiliated members, providing an inclusive career pathway and bolstering PM awareness.

Goal 2: Drive Community Impact through Applied PM.

• Action: I will initiate and oversee at least 3 pro-bono project management initiatives annually with local non-profits, leveraging member volunteer expertise (targeting 100+ volunteer hours).
• Impact: Demonstrate PM's societal value, provide unique leadership opportunities for members, and enhance the chapter's community standing.

Success Methodology: I will achieve these goals by applying robust PMI program management principles, a human-centered approach, and data analytics to rigorously track progress, ensuring impact for our chapter and its members.