I have had the pleasure to be involved with PPIE for two quarters. In Spring 2009, I have been working with Shane Pearlman in putting on a Freelance Camp in Santa Cruz. I have definitely learned many project management skills and learned the ins and out of how to put on a conference. This includes who to talk to, how to talk to people, where to find them, create a budget, find venues, research gift items, blogging and other various activities.

I have enjoyed the freedom, yet clear expectations that Shane Pearlman has laid out for me. It seems that it was not so much the technical tasks that were difficult to perform, but in managing expectations that proved a challenge. That is definitely a skill that takes much practice, and I am very glad that I have had the experience to work with him.

In addition, PPIE put me in touch many amazing individuals. Whether that was William Fisher, Joel Kaufman from IES, Jeremy from Nextspace, LaRae West, Peter Koht, Peter Chester or Shane Pearlman it has been a great privilege to get to know and learn from everyone. I would definitely recommend this program to others!