Technology Program Manager in Oklahoma Career Overview
As a Technology Program Manager, you play a vital role in the intersection of technology and project management. Your primary responsibility involves overseeing the successful delivery of technology-related projects while ensuring they align with the organization's strategic goals.
Key aspects of the job include:
Project Coordination: You manage multiple projects simultaneously, balancing timelines, resources, and priorities to ensure that each initiative progresses smoothly.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with various stakeholders, including executives, team members, vendors, and clients, is essential. You serve as the main point of contact, ensuring clear communication and alignment throughout the project lifecycle.
Resource Management: Allocating resources effectively is critical to your role. You assess project needs and assign team members and tools accordingly to optimize performance and productivity.
Risk Management: Identifying potential risks and developing mitigation strategies is part of your job. You anticipate challenges and create contingency plans to minimize disruptions.
Performance Tracking: You monitor project progress through metrics and KPIs, ensuring that objectives are met and adjusting plans as necessary based on performance data.
Process Improvement: You continuously seek ways to enhance processes and methodologies within your projects, fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency.
Technological Insight: Understanding current technologies and industry trends is important. You leverage this knowledge to make informed decisions about project direction and scope.
The role of a Technology Program Manager is essential in today’s fast-paced technological landscape, where the successful integration of technology into business processes can greatly influence an organization’s competitiveness and ability to innovate.
Technology Program Manager Salary in Oklahoma
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Technology Program Manager in Oklahoma
To become a Technology Program Manager, you typically need a combination of relevant educational qualifications and training. Here are some specific college degree programs that are advantageous:
Applied Engineering
- Focuses on the practical application of engineering principles and technologies.
- Courses cover various engineering disciplines and project management methodologies.
Construction Management
- Emphasizes the management aspects of construction projects, including planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.
- Prepares you to handle technology integration within the construction sector.
Cybersecurity Defense Strategy and Policy
- Concentrates on developing and implementing strategies to protect information and technology assets.
- Informs the project management approach in technology-related risk management initiatives.
Engineering Management
- Blends engineering knowledge with management skills, focusing on leading engineering projects.
- Prepares you for overseeing technical groups and aligning project goals with business objectives.
Project Management
- Provides detailed insight into planning, executing, and closing projects effectively.
- Often includes training in various project management methodologies and tools, which are essential for successful technology program management.
In addition to these degree programs, pursuing relevant certifications or additional training in project management and technology implementation can further enhance your qualifications.
Best Schools to become a Technology Program Manager in Oklahoma 2024
University of Phoenix-Arizona
University of Arkansas
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Colorado State University Global
New York University
Missouri University of Science and Technology
- Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
Technology Program Manager Required Skills and Competencies in Oklahoma
Project Management: You must be adept in planning, executing, and closing projects and possess a comprehensive understanding of project management methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, or Waterfall.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with various technologies, programming languages, and software development processes is essential. You should also be comfortable using project management tools and software.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication abilities enable you to convey complex ideas clearly to stakeholders at all levels, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Leadership: You should demonstrate the ability to lead diverse teams, motivate members, and facilitate collaboration. Effective leaders inspire trust and promote a positive work environment.
Problem-Solving: Developing a keen sense for identifying challenges early and implementing effective solutions is critical. You should be able to analyze situations and make sound decisions quickly.
Stakeholder Management: Recognizing the needs and expectations of various stakeholders will help you manage relationships effectively and ensure that project objectives align with broader organizational goals.
Risk Management: You need to assess potential risks to projects and develop mitigation strategies. This helps in navigating uncertainties that may affect timelines or deliverables.
Organizational Skills: Maintaining a high level of organization is necessary for juggling multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring that timelines and resources are managed efficiently.
Adaptability: Technology and project landscapes can change rapidly. Being adaptable and open to modifying approaches in response to new information or emerging trends is essential.
Budgeting and Financial Acumen: Understanding project budgets, tracking expenses, and managing resources effectively will help you ensure that projects remain within financial constraints.
Negotiation Skills: Mastering negotiation techniques allows you to advocate for your team and resources while reaching mutually beneficial agreements with stakeholders and vendors.
Quality Assurance: A focus on maintaining high-quality standards throughout the project lifecycle ensures that deliverables meet or exceed expectations. Familiarity with testing procedures and quality control methodologies will be beneficial.
Networking: Building and nurturing a professional network can open doors to resources, support, and opportunities, enhancing the success of your projects and career.
Job Duties for Technology Program Managers
Direct daily operations of department, analyzing workflow, establishing priorities, developing standards and setting deadlines.
Meet with department heads, managers, supervisors, vendors, and others, to solicit cooperation and resolve problems.
Review project plans to plan and coordinate project activity.
Data base user interface and query software
- Blackboard software
- MySQL
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Microsoft Dynamics
- Oracle PeopleSoft
Web platform development software
- Apache Tomcat
- Spring Framework
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
People and Technology Systems
- Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Technology Program Manager in Oklahoma
The job market for Technology Program Managers in Oklahoma has been showing promising trends, providing a range of opportunities across various sectors. With the increasing integration of technology in business operations, the need for skilled program managers who can oversee complex projects and coordinate teams is on the rise.
Demand for Technology Program Managers
- A noticeable increase in the adoption of technology solutions across industries is driving demand for Technology Program Managers. Companies require professionals to facilitate the implementation of software solutions, manage IT projects, and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
- Industries such as healthcare, finance, and telecommunications are particularly active in hiring technology program managers as they continue to innovate and enhance their digital platforms.
Growth Potential
- The technology sector in Oklahoma is expanding, leading to sustained growth potential for Technology Program Managers. Organizations are investing heavily in technology to streamline operations and improve service delivery, creating a robust environment for job openings.
- As more companies embrace digital transformation, the role of Technology Program Managers will become increasingly significant. This growth trajectory suggests that job security and advancement opportunities in this field are likely to remain strong.
Geographical Hotspots
- Major cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa are at the forefront of the tech job market, serving as hubs for several technology firms and innovative startups.
- Oklahoma City has seen a surge in new tech companies, particularly those focused on software development and IT services. This growing ecosystem is creating a wealth of opportunities for technology professionals.
- Tulsa has also emerged as a notable player with initiatives aimed at fostering tech entrepreneurship and attracting tech talent. The city hosts several incubators and co-working spaces, promoting networking and career growth for Technology Program Managers.
Networking and Professional Development
- Engaging with local technology meetups, conferences, and industry-specific associations can provide you with valuable connections and insights. In Oklahoma, organizations such as the Oklahoma Technology Association offer resources and networking opportunities that can enhance your career prospects.
By focusing on these areas within the job market, you can position yourself strategically for a rewarding career as a Technology Program Manager in Oklahoma.
Top Related Careers to Technology Program Manager 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Technology Program Manager in Oklahoma
Project Management Institute (PMI)
Gain access to a wealth of resources, including certifications, publications, and research on best practices in project management.
PMI WebsiteAssociation for Project Management (APM)
Explore resources including professional development opportunities, publications, and networking events related to project and program management.
APM WebsiteAmerican Society for Quality (ASQ)
Learn about quality management principles that are crucial for technology program management, along with certifications and resources.
ASQ WebsiteScrum Alliance
If you're interested in Agile methodologies, this organization offers various resources, certifications, and community events focused on Scrum practices.
Scrum Alliance WebsiteLinkedIn Learning
Access thousands of online courses covering project management techniques, tools, and leadership skills essential for Technology Program Managers.
LinkedIn LearningTechTarget
Stay updated with articles, guides, and resources focused on technology management and strategy, as well as program management trends.
TechTarget WebsiteHarvard Business Review
Read insightful articles and case studies on leadership, management practices, and technology trends that impact program management.
Harvard Business ReviewOklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES)
Find state-specific resources and information regarding government technology projects and programs in Oklahoma.
OMES WebsiteOklahoma Technology Association (OKTA)
Connect with local peers and access resources focused on technology initiatives within the state of Oklahoma.
OKTA WebsitePMI Oklahoma Chapter
Join the local chapter of PMI to network with fellow professionals, attend workshops, and participate in events tailored for project management practitioners in Oklahoma.
PMI Oklahoma Chapter WebsiteThe Lean Enterprise Institute
Explore resources focused on Lean management techniques, which can be applicable to streamlining processes in tech program management.
Lean Enterprise Institute
These resources will help you stay informed and connected as you advance in your career as a Technology Program Manager in Oklahoma.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Technology Program Manager in Oklahoma
What is a Technology Program Manager?
A Technology Program Manager is responsible for overseeing and coordinating technology-related projects within an organization. This role involves managing multiple projects, aligning them with strategic goals, and ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.What qualifications are needed to become a Technology Program Manager?
Typically, you will need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as computer science, information technology, or business administration. Many employers also prefer candidates with project management certifications, such as PMP or Agile certifications, and several years of experience in project management or a related area.What skills are important for a Technology Program Manager?
Key skills include strong leadership, effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in project management methodologies. Additionally, understanding technical concepts and having experience with software development life cycles can be beneficial.What does a typical day look like for a Technology Program Manager?
Your day may include meetings with stakeholders, coordinating project timelines, tracking progress, managing team performance, and addressing risks or issues that arise. You’ll also spend time reviewing project documentation and communicating updates to upper management.What industries employ Technology Program Managers?
Technology Program Managers can work in various industries, including information technology, healthcare, finance, telecommunications, and government sectors. Almost any industry that relies on technology for business operations may need professionals in this role.What is the salary range for Technology Program Managers in Oklahoma?
Salary can vary based on experience, industry, and company size; however, Technology Program Managers in Oklahoma earn typically between $90,000 and $130,000 per year, with potential for bonuses and other incentives.Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
Yes, there are many opportunities for advancement. With experience and proven success, you can move into senior program management roles or higher-level positions, such as Director of Technology or Chief Technology Officer (CTO).What are the biggest challenges faced by Technology Program Managers?
Common challenges include managing project scope, balancing resource allocation, ensuring effective communication among teams, and addressing unforeseen technical issues. Staying adaptable and solution-oriented is essential for overcoming these challenges.How can I gain experience as a Technology Program Manager?
Start by seeking positions in project management or related roles, such as project coordinator or business analyst. Additionally, consider volunteering for leadership roles in projects or pursuing internships that expose you to technology projects.What resources are available for professional development in this field?
Numerous resources are available, including online courses, certification programs, and professional associations like the Project Management Institute (PMI). Networking events, webinars, and industry conferences can also provide valuable learning and growth opportunities.