Day 2 of the 2018 APMP Bid & Proposal Con started bright and early with some exciting news, some insider knowledge, and then plenty of opportunities to continue learning and networking.
At the Morning Welcome on May 17, APMP Chair Jamie Ninneman announced the creation of the Charlie Devine Scholarship in honor of the APMP Certification Director who recently retired. The scholarship, which will go into effect in 2019, will go towards one person per chapter to use towards the certification of their choice.
“An industry of people working to get better at what they do,” said APMP Executive Director Rick Harris as he recognized everyone who had completed a certification at the 2018 APMP Bid & Proposal Con. Harris also revealed that, in the coming years, APMP will be developing specialty certifications focused on specific aspects of proposal management, such as proposal writing.
Newly certified professionals celebrate at Bid & Proposal Con 2018
Harris provided some further updates, including announcing that APMP has grown to 8,198 members and 10,152 certified professionals. He also announced the update to the APMP Journal. The print journal is changing to an online format called Winning the Business available at winningthebusiness.com. The website is open to the public in an effort to help professionals outside of the association learn more about APMP and what they do. Conference attendees can pick up a free mug at registration and share a selfie on social media to help promote the new site. The new site aims to be your go-to hub of industry news and trends.
Harris also shared that about 500 members have taken the ethics survey so far, and staff would like to double that within the next couple days. Members are encouraged to check their email or visit apmp.org to take the survey.
There was a second keynote on Thursday with Christoph Mlinarchik, an attorney, expert witness, professional instructor, consultant, and author of 50+ publications on government contracts and acquisitions. Mlinarchik talked about upcoming changes in government acquisitions, industries to watch, how to meet one-on-one, and what makes a true professional.
The day continued with more sessions, which follow four main tracks: leadership and professional development, managing processes, win the business, and tools/tech. On Thursday, attendees learned more about covered graphics, women industry leaders, work-life balance, and more.
Thursday evening provided plenty of time for attendees to continue the discussions from the day. There were specialized receptions and happy hours for APMP Fellows, the California Chapter, the Rhythm & Harmony Chapter, and the National Capital Area Chapter.
Read more about what happened at the beginning of the conference as well as highlights from day 1 and day 3. Save the date! Bid & Proposal Con 2019 will be June 3-6, 2019, in Orlando, Florida. Look for registration to open in early 2019.
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