My full name is James R. Martin but most everyone calls me Jim or Jimmy. I was born and raised in Uniontown, PA but now live in Greensburg, PA with my fiance, 3 dogs and 3 cats. I am currently working for an Engineering firm that conducts business in virtually all facets of engineering. My current title is Project Manager as I do manage small design and construction projects. I am enrolled in the ESP program pursuant of a BA to help advance my career in hopes to become a PM for Renewable Energy Projects.
My interest in this course is initial to the fact that it is a requirement but I’m sure that will change as we progress through it.
I have not started a business but I have tried and I must say it is seemingly very difficult, at least from a time availability standpoint.
I do often think that a energy/energy efficiency consulting business would be something to do as a small business. I deal with many homeowners and contractors that are ignorant to the fact of available technology that will help them save money as well as be cognizant of the environment.
I look forward to being a part of this course with all of you.
All the best,
Jim
Hi Jim,
Being a PM for an Engineering company is a great start to learning what it takes to go into your own business. I have managed many projects and not one was the same. Every project will teach you something different. With the ESP degree you will be very marketable.
My blog link is. http://engr312.dutton.psu.edu/2014/08/26/lesson-1-mark-mulhollem/
I also am really pondering the idea of starting my own energy efficiency consulting business. I really like the idea of working on multiple projects and ever changing projects. Each time you move to a new site, it is like starting a new job and your career does not stagnate.
I love talking to other ESP majors about their current career. I usually ask what they hope to do with the degree but you outline it pretty well. As a PM for an engineering firm, do you have an engineering degree or any PM certifications? I like the idea of project management because I did some early in my career but why I browse jobs, it almost always seems like energy companies and engineering firms require one or the other.