2026 Project Management Summit
Now showing: the VITA Project Management Summit. This one-day professional development event gives public-sector project managers the chance to engage, connect and learn. This year’s theme – project management in the movies – lets participants explore how iconic films portraying leadership, teamwork, risks, deadlines and problem solving have surprising parallels to real-world project management.
Look at movie moments through a project lens to gain fresh perspectives on communication, adaptability and navigating challenges with creativity. It’s a lighthearted yet insightful way to show how project management concepts appear just about everywhere, including on the big screen.
Lights, camera, action! Commonwealth Chief Information Officer Mike Watson kicks off this blockbuster event, followed by morning sessions for the whole group. After enjoying a boxed lunch, participants can choose three out of six movie-themed breakout sessions, each connecting memorable film moments to practical project management lessons.
This year's summit takes place at the Brightpoint Community College Chester campus. Parking is ample and free.
Are you ready for your closeup? Get your ticket today to save your seat. We’re rolling out the red carpet for you!
Summit Date and Registration
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 2
Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Registration + light breakfast begins at 8 a.m.
Location: Nicholas Center, Brightpoint Community College, Chester, VA
Cost: $100
Open to project managers throughout the Commonwealth working in public sector roles.
Guest speaker
Mason Mills, Executive producer
Mason is executive producer of science, history and special projects for Virginia Public Media (VPM). He works to develop content with local and national producers in digital and television broadcast platforms.
Agenda
Project Management in the Movies
What WarGames taught us about AI
Afternoon breakout sessions
1-1:45 p.m.
Auditorium one
Ford vs. Ferrari
Team building: Empower cross-functional teams and trust your people
Susan Tinsley and Nick Crowe, DOC
Auditorium two
The Martian
Leadership: Align the team with the vision
Jonathan Baber, SCC
2-2:45 p.m.
Auditorium one
The Founder
Contract administration: Protect interest while maintaining relationship
Lisa Kirby, DARS
Auditorium two
Sully
Conflict resolution: Post-crises reflection and learning
Dan Lewis, VITA
3-3:45 p.m.
Auditorium one
Ocean's 11
Build an incredible team: Team effectiveness lessons
Terry Leahy, DMAS
Auditorium two
Wicked
Organizational change management (OCM): Collaboration supports change
Linda Bell-Sinclair, VITA retiree