As we begin 2026, I want to take a moment to pause—not to slow us down, but to reflect thoughtfully on where we’ve been and how that experience is shaping the year ahead for the PMI Madison/South Central Wisconsin Chapter.

When I shared my vision at the start of 2025, my focus was on strengthening our chapter, empowering our members, and fostering collaboration. Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of seeing that vision tested, refined, and—most importantly—shaped by the voices and engagement of our members and volunteers.

What I’ve learned most is this: a strong chapter is not built by doing more, but by doing what matters most—intentionally, sustainably, and together.

What 2025 Taught Us

2025 was a year of meaningful progress and important lessons. We delivered professional development opportunities, re-engaged volunteers, strengthened communication across the board, and continued conversations about how best to serve a diverse and evolving membership.

We also learned where capacity matters. Not every good idea can be pursued at once, and not every initiative needs to scale immediately. That clarity has helped us focus on alignment—between our purpose, our volunteers’ energy, and the value our members seek.

I’m deeply grateful to our Executive Board, committee leaders, and volunteers who stepped forward, adapted, and stayed engaged—even when things were still taking shape. Your commitment is what allows this chapter to function not just as an organization, but as a community.

Moving from Activity to Experience

As we look ahead to 2026, our focus continues to evolve—from delivering individual events to shaping a cohesive member experience.

That means thinking beyond a calendar of meetings and asking bigger questions:

• How do members first connect with the chapter?
• How do they find value at different stages of their careers?
• How do volunteering, learning, and networking reinforce one another?

In 2026, we are being more intentional about designing experiences that support members whether they are new to PMI, advancing their careers, transitioning roles, or giving back through leadership and service.

Professional Development with Purpose

Professional development remains a cornerstone of our chapter, and this year we are placing added emphasis on accessibility, relevance, and flexibility. Alongside our chapter meetings and programs, we are exploring delivery models—including hybrid and streamed options—that allow us to reach members where they are, without losing the value of connection and interaction.

We are also continuing to align our offerings with evolving trends in the profession—leadership, power skills, adaptive ways of working, and the practical application of emerging tools—always with an eye toward real-world value.

Volunteering as a Pathway, Not a Burden

Our chapter thrives because of volunteers, and in 2026 we are reinforcing a simple principle: volunteering should feel purposeful, supported, and rewarding.

We are continuing to clarify roles, improve onboarding, and ensure that volunteer opportunities align with both chapter needs and individual interests. Whether someone can contribute a few hours a year or is exploring a leadership path, there is a place for meaningful engagement.

Equally important, we are committed to recognizing contributions and ensuring continuity—so knowledge, relationships, and momentum are not lost from year to year.

Staying Connected and Listening

Open communication remains a priority. Your feedback—shared in meetings, conversations, surveys, or one-on-one discussions—directly informs how we prioritize and plan. This chapter is strongest when it reflects the collective insight of its community.

An Invitation for 2026

As we move forward together, my invitation is simple:

• Attend an event that stretches your thinking
• Volunteer in a way that aligns with your strengths
• Share your ideas, feedback, and perspective
• Connect with someone new in our community

You don’t need to do everything to make a difference. One conversation, one contribution, one connection at a time is how we continue to build momentum.

Thank you for being part of the PMI Madison/South Central Wisconsin Chapter. I look forward to another year of learning, collaboration, and shared progress—and to continuing this journey with you in 2026.

Warm regards,

Rodney Wendlandt, PMP
President
PMI Madison/South Central Wisconsin Chapter

president@pmi-madison.org