PMTraining is one of the US’s premier providers of PMI training, including the highly sought-after and popular Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
As well as the, Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP) and Program Management Professional (PgMP). However, what truly sets PMTraining apart is something that has been an industry secret since its inception in 2004. And in todays article we’ll find out why they are becoming globally recognised for there excellence in training for these very specialized industry accreditations.
In an exclusive interview, Ron Ponce, Director of Training Services, explains why PMTraining has become a market leader and how their unique methods and learning approach are helping over 900 students a month, pass one of the most demanding certification exams in the project profession.
Ron explained that he, and Founder and Managing Director Christopher Scordo, had almost stumbled upon the business by chance.
Ron had been providing clients in-person PMP training using his specially tailored course based on his 30-years experience as PM practitioner. And Scordo, running a business an online training academy at the time. It was the perfect combination and PMTraining entered the market with a unique offering: completely virtual classes catering to any time zone in the US and internationally.
By the time the 2020 global pandemic hit, PMTraining was already a well-established and respected provider. The ensuing lockdowns and remote work environment provided the perfect opportunity for the business to surge ahead, outpacing competitors still reliant on traditional classroom-based tutoring.
“We had all the infrastructure in place,” Ron recalls, “and a growing reputation for excellence in delivery and high pass rates for a highly demanding course. As more students enrolled, we were able to increase our virtual classes and expand our team of tutors.” Students, especially those from countries outside of the US, were being catered to for the first time.
Another key factor in PMTraining’s success is its exceptional teaching faculty. “Our teaching faculty is our greatest asset,” Ron states. “We have 17 tutors, most of whom have been with the company for over five years, some for over ten years, and three since the beginning.” Ron emphasizes that all PMTraining tutors are experienced project managers who bring real-world expertise to the classroom, directly contributing to the organization’s impressive results.
A common question is why the PMP and other PMI certifications are so in-demand internationally, with PMP in particular, consistently ranking among the top three certifications across all business sectors. “The PMP is the industry standard,” Ron explains. “Most organizations, especially in North America, expect project managers to have this qualification as the fundamental for project delivery.” Ron also highlights the rigorous nature of the certification process, which ensures candidates have a thorough understanding of the entire syllabus and can demonstrate practical application.
Achieving the PMP certification undoubtedly supports career advancement. Not only is it often a prerequisite for employment, but employers also value the ongoing professional development with practitioners required to undertake 60 hours of training to upskill knowledge every three years.
Ron states that, “PMTraining adheres strictly to the PMI’s syllabus,” he continues “ensuring that our students receive comprehensive coverage of all topics. We also have a rigorous process for assessing students’ knowledge and preparing them for the final exam. Through experience, we know exactly what it takes to pass the exam, and while there are no shortcuts, we can guide students through the process and instill the confidence they need to succeed.”
While the PMI doesn’t release specific pass rates for training centers, PMTraining’s own feedback indicates that 97% of their students recommend the program. Additionally, the high number of students—over 9,000 annually—speaks volumes about the effectiveness of PMTraining’s methods.
Ron notes a growing number of international students joining their cohorts, largely due to the flexibility of the classes. PMTraining’s classes are designed to accommodate global time zones and busy schedules, with 30 to 40 classes running monthly and a team of 17 tutors available for support.
Ron explains that the PMP certification is typically targeted at experienced project managers, making it less suitable for early-career professionals. And he recommends that early-career individuals consider foundational programs like the ‘Foundations of Project Management’ and the ‘Foundations of Agile’, both of which PMTraining offer. PMTraining also assists experienced candidates in meeting PDU requirements for certification maintenance. So PMTraining really prides itself on providing end to end career development for its students.
One of the most challenging aspects of the PMP certification is the exam format. The 180 multiple-choice questions are drawn from a vast pool, and candidates must be well-versed in the entire syllabus. Ron emphasizes the importance of question comprehension and avoiding common pitfalls. “Our tutors are there to make sure our students don’t fall into the traps, that other students unfortunately fall into”.
PMTraining utilizes its own practice questions and mock exams, closely resembling the actual exam, to prepare students. This extensive practice helps students gain familiarity with the exam format and increase their confidence. This is especially valuable as the PMI do not release pass questions.
However, PMTraining’s long-standing relationship with the PMI is another valuable factor for student success. As a fully accredited PMI provider, PMTraining is often involved in testing new syllabus offerings and exams, ensuring that students receive the most up-to-date information.
I end our interview by asking Ron why students choose PMTraining and how they maintain their success in this crowded market? “Its really about our commitment to providing trusted resources and long-term support for our project management students.” Ron continued, “The company is dedicated to ensuring students succeed, not just in the short-term, but in embracing continuous professional development, which is something that extends far beyond just certification attainment.”
To learn more about the certifications offered by PMTraining, visit the Project Management Global Training Portal, where you can find a comprehensive range of PMTraining courses, exam prep materials, and PDU pathways, all at special rates.
Ron Ponce is PMTraining’s Director of Services and is responsible for the delivery of training and consulting services. Ron directly oversees PMTraining’s curriculum and training, which is delivered to more than 9,000 professionals each year.
Ron is a veteran of the project profession, having worked in the industry for more than 30 years. As a program and project manager, Ron specializes in process and people management and has a track record for meticulously executing large-scale enterprise initiatives and implementations for organizations ranging from business startups to Fortune 100 firms. Ron is a member of the PMI and the San Francisco Chapter of PMI. He is also a Board Member of Tellefsen Hall Association (Home of the Cal Band). You can find out more about the work Ron is doing by connecting with him on his LinkedIn page here
