What is changing?
PMI Phoenix and PMI Tucson Chapters are merging to form a single statewide chapter: PMI Arizona Chapter.
Update 5/29/2025 - Is this proposal an equal partner merger or is Tucson going to be the junior partner? Related, what is the difference between a chapter and branch (or how they work together)?
The proposal is a dissolution of the Phoenix chapter, dissolution of the Tucson chapter, and the creation of a new Arizona chapter. This is done to ensure that the new chapter starts on a common foundation. Branches are just geographic areas that define the different communities within the chapter. The intention with the three areas is to be inclusive of all communities within the branch area. Both chapters have been reaching beyond their original areas of Phoenix and Tucson and as the communities in Arizona have grown, so will the PM Community.
Update 5/29/2025 - How were the districts derived? Population? Area? # of PMI members?
The branch boundaries were defined by the chapter formation committee. Chapter branch areas are defined by zip codes. PMI Global provided the chapter formation committee with the overall population of certification holders and PMI Global members. The committee then analyzed the data to determine areas and communities that would be best served together.
Update 5/29/2025 - My Phoenix chapter membership renews in August 2025. If the new structure is adopted and starts January 1, 2026, will my renewal start again 1/1/26 and I'll need to pay dues again, or will it renew in August 2026?
The chapter formation team is operating under the assumption that chapter renewal will remain the same, but we have asked PMI Global for confirmation.
Update 5/29/2025 - In many larger geographically-sized states, there are multiple chapters. For example, Idaho has a much smaller populations, large geography and thus two chapters. Previously, this was because in-person was the way to do meetings and therefore chapter areas were smaller. Why has Arizona chosen to go to a single statewide chapter, even though it has a geographically larger area?
To unify Arizona’s project management community, eliminate administrative duplication, improve resource efficiency, and serve members more effectively across the entire state. In today’s global environment, virtual collaborations and meetings permit members from larger areas to participate. However, the branch model then allows people within a particular geographic area to participate in in-person experiences.
Update 5/29/2025 - Is there one AZ Chapter Board now or will each branch have their own boards?
There will be one chapter board. The board members will be from the entire state. Within the board, there are three board members, each with a focus on their particular branch. Those people will represent the members in that branch, as well as support volunteers from each of the major areas (e.g. membership, volunteer, finance, etc.) to assist in the branch operation.
Update 5/29/2025 - If we are dissolving the chapter, what happens to history, awards, etc., of the original chapter?
The PMI AZ Chapter would be inclusive of all the history and awards of both chapters, honoring the accomplishments of the past.
Update 5/29/2025 - Are there other states who had multiple chapters who have successfully formed one new chapter? Any lessons learned from them?
While there are no examples of chapters merging via this model, PMI Northern Italy and PMI Sweden have successfully implemented the branch model. We are going to follow the same board model as the Italy chapter and capitalize on its success.
Update 5/29/2025 - The Global Summit, coming to Phoenix in November. What role will the local / AZ chapter play in the summit?
The local chapter will support the PMI Global Summit team by providing volunteer support and activities. Based on the results of the elections and the new board, we would hope to make a formal announcement during the PMI Global Summit.
Update 5/29/2025 - Will there be any polling or planned feedback sessions following the merger to "check the temperature" so to speak on how things are going post townhall meeting?
Chapters always get feedback from Chapters through their annual feedback survey and would be able to review that in comparison to past performances and adjust from there for continuous improvement.
Update 5/29/2025 - What are the potential downsides of the proposed merger?
It is in the Multi-Year Business Plan created by the chapter formation steering committee. A SWOC analysis was done to determine the strengths, weakness, opportunities, and challenges. Please see below:
Strengths | Weaknesses |
- Fiscally sustainable PMI Chapters
- Strong and balanced PMI Chapters
- Strong technological presence to engage remote members
- Strong knowledge base of board members
- Diversity of members
- High level of marketing engagement
- Higher education/university relationships
- High value programs and events
- Strong professional development structures and support
- Strong foundation for Arizona Chapter based on the experience of long-standing chapters.
- Streamlined technology stack
|
- Large geographic area to service
- Dense metropolitan areas difficult to hold events
- Reliance on volunteers to carry out core activities and various duties
- New board
- New chapter
|
Opportunities | Challenges |
- Statewide coverage for membership
- Stronger advocacy globally
- Marketing the new Arizona chapter
- Expanded professional development
- Additional military outreach
- Volunteer bandwidth increase
- Expanded networking
- Opportunities for "next generation" leaders
- PMI single membership
| - Economic uncertainty
- New organizational structure
- Hearing regional needs
- Communication from old chapters to new chapter
- Transition
- Resistance to change from existing members
- May lose members in transition if the chapter fee increases
|
Why are we merging the two chapters?
To unify Arizona’s project management community, eliminate administrative duplication, improve resource efficiency, and serve members more effectively across the entire state.
What will the new chapter be called?
The new chapter will be called PMI Arizona Chapter.
When will the new chapter become official?
The transition will begin in 2025, with the goal to fully operate as PMI Arizona Chapter by January of 2026 including board elections, branch establishment, and member communication.
Where will the chapter be officially "headquartered"?
Both of the existing chapters are virtual organizations with no physical headquarters. That is expected to continue. The chapter will hold regular meetings in the communities it serves and we expect members from each of those communities to be represented on the board.
What is a branch and how does it work?
A branch is a local extension of the main chapter that organizes events, networking, and professional development in its region. Each branch will have a Branch Director reporting to the Arizona Chapter board.
How did the three branch boundaries get determined? How were the boundaries defined for each of the three branches?
The branch boundries were defined by the chapter formation committee. The experience they brought from each of their respective chapters and their knowledge fo the local communities help define the branch areas. Chapter branch areas are defined by zip codes. See the chapter branch map for a visual representation.
What areas will each branch cover?
Northern Branch: Flagstaff, Prescott, Sedona, Page. --Central Branch: Phoenix metro and surrounding areas -- Southern Branch: Tucson metro, Yuma and southern Arizona
How large will the new PMI Arizona Chapter be?
The new chapter will start with 3,200+ members and is projected to grow to over 5,000 members within 3 years, making it one of the largest chapters in the U.S.
Is this supported by both chapter boards?
Yes. Both the PMI Phoenix and PMI Tucson chapter boards are fully aligned and focused on this transition and have made it a top strategic priority.
What is PMI’s stance on this reorganization?
PMI is supportive of chapters transitioning to a branch-based model to enhance local engagement while streamlining operations.
Is this structure common in PMI?
PMI is supportive of chapters transitioning to a branch-based model to enhance local engagement while streamlining operations.
How will PMI ensure a smooth transition during this change?
A dedicated transition team from both chapters is in place, and PMI is providing support. The process includes a 3-month leadership overlap, member communications, and a phased rollout to ensure no disruption in services or benefits.
What happens to current chapter leadership?
You’ll continue to interact with your familiar local leaders and community, now strengthened by a broader network across Arizona.
Can we have access to the Chapter Operation Structure? Board of Directors Names, Roles & Responsibilities?
Yes, that is defined in the new board structure section of this website here.
How will the branch leadership be chosen?
Board Members and Branch Directors will be elected. See the chapter formation timeline here.
What does PMI Arizona Chapter governance look like?
A chapter board will oversee strategy and operations, while each branch will have a director who serves as a board member and local committees to deliver programs regionally.
How many board positions will there be?
The new PMI Arizona Chapter board will have 13 elected positions, covering key operational and strategic functions.
Will current board members automatically move into the new board?
No. All 13 positions will be open and filled through a formal member election process. Everyone, including current leaders, is welcome to run.
Will we get a new logo? What will it look like?
Yes, two mockups are in the process of being created for the membership to vote on.
What do we do with the existing marketing and give-away materials that have the individual logos?
The intent is to use the existing stock until depleted by the end of the year during normally scheduled events.
Will this affect my PMI membership?
No. Your PMI membership will remain active.
Will there be a new chapter website?
Yes, a new consolidated website will be launched for PMI Arizona Chapter. Until then, updates will be provided on the existing Phoenix and Tucson chapter sites.
How will this benefit me as a member?
You will have access to more events, wider networking, statewide partnerships, and greater opportunities for volunteering and professional development.
Will membership dues change?
No immediate changes are expected. Any future changes would be reviewed and approved by the new chapter board in consultation with PMI.
Will student and corporate members be affected?
Student and corporate memberships will continue with more opportunities for collaboration, training, and sponsorship across the state.
What will be the chapter dues for the new chapter?
How were the dues structures of the existing chapters considered for the new dues structure?
What happens to the software tools and applications that each chapter uses for its operations?
There are redundant tools between the chapters. This is our chance to streamline and become more efficient. Tools will be individually reviewed and determined which will go forward.
Will there be more volunteer opportunities?
Absolutely. The new chapter and branch structure will create more leadership and volunteer roles at both the local and state level.
How can I stay informed during the transition?
You’ll receive updates via email, chapter websites, and upcoming town halls. A dedicated page with FAQs and transition news will also be launched to keep members fully informed.
How will my existing volunteer position be affected with the combined chapter?
Your existing volunteer position will unaffected at the beginning. However, the new chapter will create new volunteer positions within volunteer.pmi.org and work with you to make sure that you are able to help and volunteer with the chapter.
If I've paid my membership into 2026, will I get a refund or a bill for the changed dues structure?
No. We will honor your current chapter membership dues structure. Only when you renew will you see the new chapter dues amount.
Will this impact certifications or credential tracking?
No. Your certification status and PDUs are managed through PMI Global and are unaffected by this change.
Will the chapter be culturally inclusive?
Yes. The new structure is designed to include and represent the diverse communities across Arizona, including Native American and Latino populations.
When will the first official board of PMI Arizona Chapter be elected?
The first official election will take place in 2025, with the newly elected board beginning their term on January 1, 2026.
What is the election timeline?
See the timeline page here.
Who can run for the new board positions?
Any PMI Arizona Chapter member in good standing is eligible to run, including members from both Phoenix and Tucson chapters.
How will the election be managed?
The election will follow PMI’s standard governance and election procedures, including a Nomination Committee, voting portal, and transparent results. Volunteering positions for Nominating Committee are currently open.
Where can I learn more about the open board roles?
Details about each of the 13 board positions and responsibilities will be shared during the nomination period via email and chapter websites. But you can view the basic board structure here.
Will I lose access to local events?
Not at all. Local access will be improved through the creation of three geographic branches: Northern, Central, and Southern Arizona.
Will my local events and programs continue?
Yes. All existing Phoenix and Tucson chapter events and programs will continue, with better coordination and expanded reach.
Can I attend events in other branches?
Yes! All members can participate in events across any branch, regardless of their location. Virtual access will also continue.
How will this affect non-members who attend chapter events?
Non-members will still be welcomed at public events and will be encouraged to join the new chapter to access more benefits.
Will there be changes to how events are organized or delivered?
Yes. Events will be coordinated statewide but delivered locally through branches. This means more in-person and hybrid events tailored to regional needs, while keeping access to large-scale and virtual statewide offerings.
What are the legal and financial changes?
A new legal entity will be created for the PMI Arizona Chapter. Financials and assets from both chapters will be transferred and consolidated.
Will the new PMI Arizona Chapter offer hybrid or virtual events?
Yes. To ensure accessibility for members across Arizona, the chapter will continue to offer virtual and hybrid events, alongside in-person programs hosted by each branch.
What effect will there be on existing partnerships with other organizations? (e.g. AZ Tech Council, Arizona State University, Fresh Start Womens Foundation, etc.)
The new chapter will evaluate the existing partnerships and make necessary alignment to the existing partnerships include any new ones.
Will companies benefit from the new chapter?
Yes. Corporate partners will now have access to a larger, unified talent pool, statewide sponsorship opportunities, and customizable engagement programs.
For these partnerships, how/who will be providing the partners with the updates of the new chapter formation?
Chapter point of contact for the partner will remain the same.
What new services or programs will be available?
The chapter will expand services such as:
• Statewide mentoring
• Enhanced career/job support
• Diversity and inclusion programs
• Diversity and inclusion programs
• Student engagement and competitions
• AZ PM Summit and new conferences
How does this change benefit students?
Students will have greater access to networking, career development events, internships, and support across multiple universities and regions.
How will students and early career professionals be supported?
The new chapter will continue to partner with universities state wide and grow student engagement through career panels, mentoring, student competitions, and discounted event access across all branches.
What is the timeline for the transition?
The transition will begin in 2025, with the goal to fully operate as PMI Arizona Chapter by the end of the year, including board elections, branch establishment, and member communication. See the timeline here.
What if I have questions or want to get involved?
Questions can be submitted through this form below this FAQ. That way all of the questions can be appropriately gathered, dispositioned, and augment these FAQs.
Will there be a kickoff event for PMI Arizona Chapter?
Yes, a statewide launch event is planned to celebrate the formation of the new chapter and introduce the leadership and strategic vision.
Will there be a transition period?
Yes. A phased transition will occur over several months in 2025, ensuring zero disruption to member services and programming.
How can I support this transition?
Stay informed, participate in chapter events, support and vote for formation of PMI Arizona chapter and consider volunteering to help shape the future of PMI in Arizona.
Can I be involved if I’m not running for the board?
Absolutely! Members can volunteer in committees, help with the transition process, or serve in branch leadership roles.