

Presentation Title
Understanding Business Acumen and Decision Performance
Presentation Speaker
Derick Brownell, PMP, SAFe, PMI-ACP
Presentation Abstract
Join us for an engaging session on Business Acumen and Decision Performance. Derick Brownell, PMP, SAFe, PMI-ACP, will guide us through an interactive program that explores the value of measuring decision performance and its impact on day-to-day decision-making. This event will provide valuable insights into how we can improve our business decision-making. Learning Objectives include
• Learning how to help your teams realize their potential and avoid their pitfalls by rethinking the work foundation.
• Taking small steps, learning from them, and adjusting your direction, instead of planning and executing a big transformation.
• Understanding the importance of identifying work value streams and their flow and adaptability.
Speaker Biography
Derick Brownell became a Phoenix Chapter member in 2007 and has been a Director on the Phoenix Chapter Board of Directors over the past five years, focused on Programs, Partnership, and Sponsorship. He has worked in Project Management, PMO Director, Lead Consultant, Sales, and Owner/President roles, attributing success to the continuous improvement fostered by the project management community. Currently, Derick is a Senior Account Executive at Axway Software, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. His focus is on Healthcare and Life Sciences Compliance and Security software and services. In his spare time, Derick Owns and Invests in an Executive Coaching firm and actively coaches in the Arizona Youth Olympic Development Program (ODP). To learn more about Derick, please check out his LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derickbrownell
| Event Date | 05-19-2026 6:00 pm |
| Event End Date | 05-19-2026 8:00 pm |
| Cut off date | 05-19-2026 11:00 pm |
| Individual Price | Please see registration page for pricing |
| No. of Business Acumen PDUs | 2.0 |
| Location | Virtual Event/Web Conference |


Presentation Title
How to Say No Without Saying No: Strategies and Examples
Presentation Speaker
Carol Marzouk, The Executive Lion Tamer®
Presentation Abstract
Many individuals, not just those who seek approval, struggle with saying "No". This difficulty arises from various factors such as the circumstances, the person involved, and the rationale behind the request. We often find ourselves in challenging predicaments, fearing potential repercussions, aiming to avoid disappointment or discomfort, among other reasons that lead us to acquiesce. Consequently, when we truly want to say no, it takes a toll on our mental and physical well-being.
In this presentation, Carol Marzouk, ‘The Executive Lion Tamer’, will shed light on the importance of asserting oneself by saying "No" and outlining how it benefits both parties. She will also provide strategies and examples for effectively and diplomatically expressing refusal, ensuring a positive outcome for everyone involved.
Learning Objectives include how to:
• Say no without using the word "No" when appropriate.
• Help people by saying "No" WITHOUT saying "No".
• Shift your thinking so that it becomes effortless to say No.
• Pay attention to your needs while also accomplishing what others may want.
Speaker Bio
Carol Marzouk, CEO of Leadership 'N' Soul, has spent 30+ years inspiring leaders and teams to positively impact the bottom line while retaining their “soul” and integrity. Her mission is to inspire, train, educate, and coach executives to operate with a conscience and put in place a proven process that allows for every single employee to be committed to the success of the company. She is a bilingual Behavior Strategist, Speaker, Certified Coach, and Lean Six Sigma Greenbelt. She received her Psychology degree from UCLA, and her various Executive Coaching and OD certifications from DePaul University and the ICF-accredited Center for Executive Coaching. An expert on employee engagement, she is committed to equipping and inspiring leaders and their teams globally, from the boardroom to the mailroom, who want to improve employee engagement, teamwork, and communication to impact the top and bottom line. Her presentations have proven to be engaging, enthusiastic, practical, and real-world.
| Event Date | 04-25-2026 10:00 am |
| Event End Date | 04-25-2026 12:00 pm |
| Cut off date | 04-25-2026 6:00 pm |
| Individual Price | Please see registration page for pricing |
| No. of Power Skills PDUs | 2.0 |
| Location | Northgate González Market-Riverside |


Presentation Title
A Modern Work Manifestoi
Presentation Speaker
Mark Cruth
Presentation Abstract
Work is broken. We point to the pandemic as the cause, but the reality is that work was broken far before we all learned to work from home. To fix work, we need to fundamentally change the way we approach it…We need something to rally us together…we need a manifesto! During this hands-on workshop, we’ll dive into the principles that shape the Modern Work Manifesto, such as flow and adaptability. Discover how to implement the manifesto in your work by incorporating three practical techniques that you can begin applying as early as tomorrow. Viva la Modern Work!
Learning Objectives include:
• Understanding the principles that shape the Modern Work Manifesto
• Providing tips to implement the Modern Work Manifesto in your daily work
• Learning how to work better, more effectively, and more efficiently
• Reviewing how to work in a new digital and more connected age
• Actively thinking about the future of work
Speaker Bio
Focused on practice over theory, Mark Cruth is a pragmatic modern work designer and coach with over a decade of experience at companies like Pendsol, Atlassian, Boeing, Nordstrom, Charles Schwab, and Rocket Mortgage. As the Yep – Just saw it. Thanks to Pendsol Consulting, he focuses on transforming work practices and expert storytelling. Mark spends his days coaching teams on new ways of working and shares his insights at events worldwide. His mission is to inject modern ways of working, a transformation mindset, and the power of expert storytelling into everything he does. And when not focused on challenging the traditional ways of working, he can be found in his home recording studio practicing his craft as an accomplished voice actor. If you’re interested in having Mark join your event and lend his voice to your project, visit https://www.markcruth.com and reach out!
| Event Date | 04-21-2026 6:00 pm |
| Event End Date | 04-21-2026 8:00 pm |
| Cut off date | 04-21-2026 11:00 pm |
| Individual Price | Please see registration page for pricing |
| No. of Power Skills PDUs | 2.0 |
| Location | Virtual Event/Web Conference |


Presentation Title
Optimizing Your Customer Relationship
Presentation Speaker
Nick Errico, 150+ Certifications
Presentation Abstract
Nicholas Errico, fondly known as the "New York Cowboy," presents a transformative approach to Project Management through the powerful SRT (Sell, Relate, Deliver) mindset. This revolutionary framework unlocks the secret to increasing Customer Value and Service Provider Revenue, creating an unbeatable WIN/WIN scenario. Through his dynamic approach, teams consistently achieve higher project delivery rates, soaring customer satisfaction, and enhanced strategic positioning.
What sets this experience apart is Nicholas's unique ability to weave entertainment with education. Get ready for a journey filled with compelling stories - from Miami misunderstandings to SpongeBob wisdom, from Cashew Fruit insights to lessons from the Methodic Squirrel. Each tale perfectly illustrates crucial project management principles while keeping you engaged and entertained. After all, as Nicholas says, "You can't learn if you're sleeping!"
Learning Outcomes will include how to:
• Understand the components of the Embrace the Deliver, Relate, Sell (DRS) mindset
• Grow and improve your customer relationships
• Achieve higher project delivery rates
• Increase customer satisfaction
• Enhance strategic positioning
Speaker Bio
With over three decades of experience spanning Professional Services Delivery and Services Sales, Nicks embodies the spirit of a true life-learner. His impressive credentials speak volumes since he currently holds 12 PMI certifications, beginning with his PMP in 1997, and a remarkable total of over 150 professional certifications. He's not just a practitioner; he is a master of his craft, and a regular speaker at PMI events nationwide, bringing his signature blend of ironic humor and practical wisdom to his presentations. His approach is refreshingly grounded in real-world experience, making complex concepts accessible and memorable. This personal touch influences his teaching style, making his presentations relatable, authentic, and impactful. His book, Off the Beaten Path – A Project Management Field Guide, further demonstrates his commitment to sharing practical knowledge. Nick currently lives in Dallas with his wife, three children, and their dog.
| Event Date | 03-17-2026 6:00 pm |
| Event End Date | 03-17-2026 8:00 pm |
| Cut off date | 03-17-2026 11:00 pm |
| Individual Price | Please see registration page for pricing |
| No. of Power Skills PDUs | 2.0 |
| Location | Virtual Event/Web Conference |
NEW/PROSPECTIVE MEMBER ORIENTATION & NETWORKING
PMICIE LIVE! IN-PERSON! FREE
1.0 PDU PRESENTATION
Join us on at Mimi's Cafe in Corona, CA.
This event is for all new, prospective, and current members.
We'll also have a random drawing for a $25 Amazon eCard - be sure to reserve your seat.
If you have any questions, please email
Mimi's Cafe
2230 Griffin Way
Corona, CA 92879
Phone: (951) 734-2073
https://www.mimiscafe.com/locations/corona/

Presentation Title
The Power of Networking
Presentation Speaker
Janice Mrkonjic, M.Ed., PMP
Presentation Abstract
In this presentation, Janice Mrkonjic will discuss the reasons why your network is the #1 predictor of career and business success. Her presentation will help you apply the art and science of networking, enabling you to forge intentional, authentic relationships that will propel your career and help you achieve business goals. Learn the various levels of a network, the difference between mentors and sponsors, and what it takes to build a network that is open, diverse, and deep. She has over 20 years of leadership experience in Corporate America and Higher Education and firmly believes that “Your network is your net worth! “
Learning Objectives will include how to:
• Define and maximize strategies to strengthen your comfort level and abilities with intentional and authentic networking
• Accurately portray the brand called “you”
• Determine if your current network includes both mentors and sponsors
• Understand whether your networking relationships are open, deep, and diverse
• Become aware of networking traps and how to avoid theml
Speaker Bio
Janice Mrkonjic ventured from Nova Scotia to North Carolina in 2001 to pioneer eLearning solutions benefitting AT&T, Verizon, and numerous telecom organizations. In 2012, she flexed her entrepreneurial spirit by establishing Savvy Event Designs LLC, a destination management company in Raleigh, where she earned her PMP. In 2013, she accepted an adventurous opportunity in academia, taking on leadership roles at Duke University, Arizona State University, and Maricopa Community Colleges. Janice followed her dream to live in California, where she directs traffic at the intersection of education, community, workforce, and economic development by producing fee-based, not-for-credit programs that fill knowledge gaps at Mt. San Jacinto College. Through her membership and committee contributions, Janice values PMI, its Chapters, and volunteers. A fireball of high energy and optimism, she loves all life's joys, including the occasional curveball.
| Event Date | 03-03-2026 6:00 pm |
| Event End Date | 03-03-2026 8:00 pm |
| Cut off date | 03-03-2026 8:00 pm |
| Individual Price | Free |
| No. of Power Skills PDUs | 1.0 |
| Location | Mimi's Cafe |
