Leadership and Project Management
Reflecting on periods of learning is essential to effective growth, and as I reflect on my education so far, two key experiences stand out as important in preparing me for the professional world. My BADM 261 course and my involvement with the Illini Solar Car are both teaching me skills in technology and management, and together, these experiences are creating tools I can use to grow in a new and innovative workplace.
Ideas from BADM 261: Guest Speakers and Leadership Lessons
BADM 261 has shaped my understanding of project management and leadership. The course features guest speakers from diverse industries, and has provided real-world insights into the post graduate field. One recurring theme from the seminars has been the emphasis on adopting a project management mindset, which prioritizes clear communication, goals, and adaptability. This mindset is key when tackling complex projects in fast-paced environments.
For example, speakers have shared their experience managing cross-functional teams on large-scale technology R&D. They highlighted the importance of breaking down projects into smaller, manageable tasks, while also maintaining a clear focus on the end goals. This idea was important to me, especially as I work on my own team-based projects, where keeping individual roles in line with collective goals can make the difference in a successful environment.
Guests have also spoken about leadership development and the need for emotional intelligence in managing teams. They discussed strategies for fostering collaboration, such as active listening and providing constructive feedback, which is often difficult for people to give and receive. These discussions have also emphasized the idea that effective leadership is not about the strength or authority of one person, but the group collaboration as a whole.
The course materials on these topics have also spoken about new ideas in projects and leadership. For example, one TED Talk on the negative aspects of excessive workplace rules offered new ideas for simplifying processes, which could lead to enhanced productivity. As well, the tips for new project managers in another source emphasized the value of clear communication and adaptability. These examples have not only expanded my ideas surrounding technology and the workplace, but have also provided real world strategies to implement and practice as I learn more.
Practical Application: Illini Solar Car and Project Leadership
While BADM 261 has laid a strong conceptual foundation, my hands-on experience with Illini Solar Car has brought these lessons to life. As a member of a student-led RSO, I’ve had the unique opportunity to manage and contribute to complex projects. As part of the team's commitment to designing a new car every 2 years, we are committed to intense planning, group work, and innovation, pushing to have better and faster car every new model.
Currently, I am leading a team of new members in repairing the brakes for our current car, while I also work on designing the braking system for our next vehicle. These roles have taught me to balance leadership responsibilities with individual work, which is a skill I’ve found to be crucial in project management. Leading the team involves mentoring new members, assigning tasks, and ensuring that everyone stays on target. At the same time, my own work on the next car’s brakes requires new ideas, precision, and commitment.
The scale and complexity of our tasks have also exposed me to advanced project management systems. With hundreds of members spread across various subteams, effective coordination is very important. Our team uses many different tools and processes to track progress, manage work, and foster new ideas, while attempting to keep our shared vision for the next car. This experience has highlighted the importance of structure and communication in ensuring that large, multi-faceted projects succeed.
Additionally, my involvement has highlighted the roles of adaptability. Unexpected challenges are inevitable in a project of this size, and addressing them requires a positive approach, as well as the ability to work backwards and forwards at the same time. These experiences have not only helped develop my problem-solving skills but have also reinforced the leadership principles I’ve learned in class and from guest speakers.
Professional Implications
Together, these experiences show me a comprehensive idea of project management and leadership. The frameworks and insights from class give me ideas and skills to implement in leading and contributing to something I work on in the real world. This dual approach is equipping me with a diverse skill set that I believe will be invaluable as I pursue a career in technology and management.
Looking ahead, I am hoping to apply these skills in a professional context, leading innovative projects that drive meaningful change. The lessons I’ve learned about fostering collaboration, simplifying processes, and adapting to challenges will serve as guiding principles in my career. Whether managing large teams or working on new technologies, I am confident that the foundation I am building now will enable me to succeed in the ever changing landscape of technology and management.
