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On Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, WithersRavenel celebrated the graduation of its latest Future Project Managers Academy (FPMA) cohort at Chatham Station in Cary, North Carolina. This milestone reflects our continued investment in developing the next generation of project leaders.
At WithersRavenel, supporting employee-owners on their professional journey is more than a commitment; it is part of who we are. Through structured professional development programs like FPMA, we equip our team members with the tools, confidence, and perspective needed to lead projects that shape communities across the Southeast.
Building the Next Generation of Project Leaders
The FPMA graduation ceremony marked the culmination of several months of interactive learning sessions led by internal subject matter experts. Throughout the program, participants explored both the day-to-day realities and the broader strategic responsibilities of project management.
Topics ranged from financial performance and client communication to risk management, team leadership, and delivery excellence. By learning directly from experienced leaders within the firm, participants gained practical insights grounded in real-world experience.
The most recent FPMA cohort included 20 employee-owners representing multiple practice areas across WithersRavenel. This cross-disciplinary collaboration strengthened the learning experience and reinforced how integrated teamwork drives successful project delivery.
Leadership Perspectives
Graduates also heard remarks from firm leadership, including Jim Canfield, President and CEO; Warren Ladbrook, Senior Director of Project Management; and Lars Hagen, Chief Delivery Officer. Each leader reinforced the importance of strong project management in delivering consistent results for clients, supporting team members, and advancing WithersRavenel’s long-term strategic growth.
Investing in Growth, Personally and Professionally
FPMA is one of many professional and personal growth initiatives available to WithersRavenel employee-owners. As an employee-owned firm, we believe investing in our people directly strengthens our ability to serve our clients and communities.
Graduates leave FPMA with a deeper understanding of the unique demands of project management and a practical toolbox to confidently address challenges that arise throughout the project lifecycle. More importantly, they leave prepared to step into greater leadership responsibilities within the firm.
Interested in Becoming a Project Manager at WithersRavenel?
If you are passionate about leading teams, delivering impactful projects, and growing your career within a collaborative, employee-owned culture, explore our dedicated Project Managers career path and open opportunities.
