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Is Project Management Still an Accidental Profession? A Qualitative Study of Career Trajectory

Author

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  • Tracey M. Richardson
  • Matthew P. Earnhardt
  • Jim W. Marion

Abstract

In this study, the authors used qualitative techniques to look for reoccurring themes related to 87 project managers’ responses to interview questions associated with entry into the field of project management and career progression. The study found that despite the efforts of higher education, professional associations, and their professional development and certifications, the project management remains a destination by accident. Professional project managers do not intend to be project managers but “fall into†the profession. This study provides a conceptual framework for project manager career trajectory that has implications for project management training and mentoring and contributes to the growing literature on the accidental profession.

Suggested Citation

  • Tracey M. Richardson & Matthew P. Earnhardt & Jim W. Marion, 2015. "Is Project Management Still an Accidental Profession? A Qualitative Study of Career Trajectory," SAGE Open, , vol. 5(1), pages 21582440155, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:sagope:v:5:y:2015:i:1:p:2158244015572098
    DOI: 10.1177/2158244015572098
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Diana Elena Ranf, 2011. "Project Management - Then And Now," Annales Universitatis Apulensis Series Oeconomica, Faculty of Sciences, "1 Decembrie 1918" University, Alba Iulia, vol. 2(13), pages 1-41.
    2. Pinto, Jeffrey K. & Kharbanda, Om P., 1995. "Lessons for an accidental profession," Business Horizons, Elsevier, vol. 38(2), pages 41-50.
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    Cited by:

    1. Martin Schnitzer & Kathrin Kronberger & Filippo Bazzanella & Sebastian Wenger, 2020. "Analyzing Project Management Methods in Organizing Sports Events," SAGE Open, , vol. 10(4), pages 21582440209, December.

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