Every month PMI Toronto recognizes a valued member for their contributions and dedication to the Chapter and our community. We’ve seen great work from volunteers and members over the year. Both have contributed in several ways by bringing expertise, content, and information to events, programs, articles, and more. This month we’re happy to acknowledge, Lucas Szotek not just for his contributions this year but for his commitment to the Chapter over the last several years.

Congratulations to Lucas for the work and project management expertise he brings to the Chapter. Nominated by Board member Michael Becker, who wanted to highlight Lucas’ insights and longstanding commitment to the Chapter.

A Dedicated Volunteer

Lucas has been an active member and volunteer since 2016. He first participated in the Professional Mentoring Program and then went onto volunteer with a couple other Chapter portfolios. He has now the been the Chair for the Greater Toronto Information Systems (GTIS) Community since July 2021.

I’ve always loved project management so once I passed my PMP I looked for ways to volunteer and I just jumped at the opportunities provided by the Chapter.

Earning a PMP opened several doors for Lucas which has shown to be a very active and fulfilling career so far.

Career Highlights...so far

Lucas earned his B.Sc in Computer Science from DeVry University. His career began in the legal services industry where he worked for over a decade. He began as a help desk analyst then worked toward a career as an IT manager. It was in this role that he realized his great passion for “helping people by solving their technical issues and managing technology.”

Switching industries Lucas found himself in such areas as global distribution and retail. These career shifts provided him the opportunity to gain experience in enterprise technology which consisted of IT infrastructure, architecture, and security.

Turning his attention and career towards project management, Lucas moved onto work in the government sector. Since 2019, he has worked for the Province of Ontario and Queen’s University as a Project Manager. Over the years he has worked on several different projects.

In 2016 he earned his PMP designation and has since expanded his repertoire to include program management. Lucas is currently focused on his volunteer commitments and career. He has started working toward a designation as a Certified Scrum Master (CSM®). It’s because of his diverse career that he’s been able to contribute to the GTIS Community since the Fall of 2020.

More About Lucas

Lucas is never one to brag about his accomplishments but it’s clear he’s focused, knowledgeable with a strong work ethic. He’s also one who can learn from past experiences. He says, “Being able to achieve your full potential by growing, overcoming obstacles, and gaining new experiences,” is how you learn to be successful.

Lucas is also willing to offer advice for those interested in a career in project management.

Take your time to grow in your career, don’t rush it. Make sure to learn thoroughly about project management by reading and seeking out mentors who will provide you with real wisdom. 

Favourite Quote: 

“Vision without action is a dream. Action without vision is simply passing the time. Action with vision is making a positive difference.”

–  Joel Barker.

Work Passions: Finding big and complex issues and resolving them and seeing them to completion.

Personal Passions: Road trips and trying out new restaurants. 

Favourite PMIT Moment:  Having the VP of IT from Walmart speak at our GTIS Quarterly Event and seeing how much GTIS members enjoyed it.

 

Nominate a Fellow PMIT Member

We are always looking for ways to showcase our dedicated and invaluable members. Take some time and nominate a fellow PMI Toronto Chapter member to be featured in our Member of the Month series. Please send your nomination suggestions to communications@pmitoronto.ca and tell us why the member should be featured.