About the Author:
Chukri ABOURJEILY
With over 13 years of experience in the Civil and Structural Engineering sector, Chukri currently serves as a Project Manager and Team Leader at Astron Buildings, where he oversees the delivery of high-quality construction projects.
As the PMI Europe Construction Ambassador in Luxembourg, he is dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional engineering and modern project management. His approach integrates Lean and Agile methodologies to optimize processes. His commitment to excellence is backed by a Master of Engineering and a robust portfolio of certifications, including PMP and PMI-CP.
Bridging the Gap: My Journey to Becoming a PMI Construction Professional (PMI-CP)™
By Chukri ABOURJEILY PMI Europe Construction Ambassador | Project Manager & Team Leader at Astron Buildings
Why I Took the Leap
As a Civil Engineer and Project Manager, I have always believed in the power of continuous learning. While my PMP® certification gave me a solid foundation in project management, I often felt the need for a framework that spoke the specific language of our industry. Construction is unique—complex scopes, intricate contract management, and distinct safety risks.
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What motivated me to pursue the PMI-CP was the desire to close the gap between general project management principles and the on-the-ground realities of construction sites. As the PMI Europe Construction Ambassador, I also felt a responsibility to lead by example. I wanted to demonstrate that modernizing our industry starts with upgrading our own skills.
The Preparation Process
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My preparation was a mix of disciplined study and practical application. Since I was already working full-time, I had to be strategic with my time. I was mainly studying during lunch break, on my way back home by public transport and during the weekends.
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I found the 4 mandatory courses modules and PMI Infinity to be the most helpful. They didn’t just teach theory; they provided scenarios that I could immediately recognize from my daily work. I also relied on the PMBOK Guide to deepen my understanding of specific areas like Scope and Contract Management.
Overcoming Challenges
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The journey wasn’t without its hurdles. The most challenging part for me was the time to study during a busy project delivery phase.
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There were moments of fatigue, but reminding myself of the long-term value—and the example I wanted to set for my team—kept me going.
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Impact on My Career
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Earning the PMI-CP has been a game-changer. It has enhanced my ability to integrate my learnings into our construction projects with more confidence.
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In my day-to-day work, I now approach risk management and contract management with a more structured mindset. It has also given me a common vocabulary to speak with international stakeholders, ensuring we are all aligned on safety standards and best practices. It bridges the technical engineering side with the strategic management side seamlessly.