Project Management Skills Research Articles

Development and validation of the project manager skills scale (PMSS): An empirical approach

This paper presents the development and validation of the Project Manager Skills Scale (PMSS), a novel instrument designed to quantify and evaluate the critical skills of project managers. The PMSS is anchored in a comprehensive literature review and expert feedback and identifies five key dimensions of project manager skills: Technical Skills, Managerial Competences, Communication Skills, Management Style-Leadership, and Technological and Methodological Competences. The discovery of an additional fifth dimension in this study underscores the multidimensional nature of project manager skills and deviates from the initial four-cluster expectation outlined in the project management literature. The research framework employed in this study incorporated exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Empirical data were gathered from 257 project managers. The criteria for respondent selection were familiarity with the concept of project management and current or past engagement in a project. The findings reveal the relative importance of each dimension and highlight the multifaceted nature of project management. The study emphasizes the need for a balanced skill set that encompasses technical expertise, managerial competences, communication skills, leadership qualities, and technological and methodological competences to achieve successful project outcomes. Despite its significant contributions, this study acknowledges its limitations in terms of geographical scope and sample diversity and suggests future research directions for the development of a universally applicable understanding of project manager skills.

Identifying supply chain manager leadership skills and competencies gaps in Malaysia

PurposeIn recent years, technology diffusion, globalization and the Internet revolution have accelerated the growth of online transactions and altered corporate operations systems. The emergence of computer technology and the Internet have changed the way businesses work. The purpose of this study is to find and identify any common patterns in the logistics and supply chain industries for job requirements using job posting content in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachThis study provides an exploratory assessment of the employability skill set required using online job posting advertisements. Online job posting advertising, also known as e-recruiting, is one field that has been significantly influenced by information technology. In addition, the current Covid-19 outbreak has created a new need for a long-term contactless talent acquisition process in the organization's operating systems.FindingsBased on this study's findings, the top ten skills required by employers for logistics and supply chain positions are (1) supply chain analytics, (2) technological aptitude, (3) teamwork skills, (4) customer focus, (5) leadership skills, (6) interpersonal skills, (7) people skills, (8) creativity and resilience, (9) demand and supply forecasting ability, and (10) project management skills. Overall, the findings provide a road map for practitioners and academics interested in developing supply chain managers' necessary skills and competencies to manage current and future supply networks. It also allows companies to adjust their supply chain management hiring, training and retention methods.Originality/valueAlthough the study was done in Malaysia, the supply chain skills and competencies stated in this study, as well as their categorization, can be applied in other developing countries.

ТЕХНОЛОГИЧЕСКИЙ СУВЕРЕНИТЕТ РОССИИ: РОЛЬ ВНЕДРЕНИЯ ОБРАЗОВАНИЯ

Technological sovereignty, broadly defined as the ability of a state to create and utilise critical technologies, is becoming increasingly important for national security and economic well-being. Russia clearly recognises this need and is therefore embarking on the challenging path of achieving technological sovereignty. This article examines the special significance of training generations of specialists for this purpose. It explores the current state of the Russian education system and the apparent shortage of specialists in vital technological fields. In addition to engineering schools, additional skills in computer science, data analysis and project management are considered. This is followed by reform guidelines and policy recommendations for talent acquisition and retention, as well as the implementation of a discipline-specific continuing education ethic. The article concludes with the ultimate prerequisite for success – a multifaceted strategy based on technological sovereignty, underpinned by long-term educational reform that will ensure Russia’s path to technological sovereignty.

Exploring the Impact of Endogenic Factors on the Competency of Small and Medium Contractors in the Ethiopian Construction Industry

Small and medium contractors (SMCs) significantly contribute to socio-economic development by creating employment opportunities and establishing inter-sectoral links with other sectors of the economy. Despite their significant contribution, evidence suggests their competency is underdeveloped due to several obscuring factors. As a part of a larger research, this study aimed to explore the endogenic factors affecting the sustainable competency of SMCs in the Ethiopian construction industry (CI). A thorough literature review was conducted to identify 65 endogenic factors arising from seven core sources. A questionnaire survey was used to collect the perceptions of industry stakeholders. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis. Findings indicated 63 significant factors affecting sustainable competency and the top factors were: employee’s strategic and operational decision- making power, organisational leadership style, the existence of matured and developed entrepreneurial mindsets, the availability of institutional and business relationships, the inability to access financial resources, the lack of project management skills and low-profit margin due to competition. Factor analysis also identified 17 components. The findings from the study indicate the need to prioritise the areas of competitiveness improvement and the practical implications of making informed decisions for entrepreneurs. The findings of this study can also be used to develop a framework to create a conducive business environment.

Impact of the Democratic Leadership Style of Project Manager on Project Success: The Mediating Role of Innovative Work Behavior

The project manager has a great responsibility to their subordinates and achieves the organizational objective and allocates resources to meet the project objective and motivate the project team by providing a vision of an ideal outcome. Project management skills are very crucial to the success of a project. Many projects have failed due to the ineffective leadership style of the project managers in such a way that insufficient planning, lack of authority, and poor communication forest the lack of transparency. This study aims to analyze the impact of democratic leadership style of a project manager on project success by analyzing the mediating role of innovative work behavior. The research strategy for this study is quantitative. 300 questionnaires were distributed to established project-based organizations to collect data. Statistical software for social science research, SPSS, and PLS, was used to analyze the data. The findings show that democratic leaders have a positive impact on project success. Innovative work behavior can help to boost project success in a complex situation within an organization.

Building a Collaborative STEM Culture through Website, Radio, and Journal Creation with High School Students from the 4th High School of Ilion: An Evaluation of a Technology-Enhanced Educational Project

In today’s digital age, educators must employ innovative and creative approaches to engage students in collaborative and interdisciplinary STEM education. Integrating technology tools like Photoshop, Audacity, and social media platforms such as Instagram offers students the chance to acquire and apply vital skills in real-world contexts. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a technology-enhanced educational project where high school students collaboratively build a formal school site, radio, and journal, fostering communication, collaboration, and project management skills. Drawing on research highlighting students’ autonomy and technology integration in education, this study examines the project’s impact on student learning outcomes. It investigates how the project influences student engagement, collaboration, and creativity. The use of technology in the project is expected to boost student motivation and enable personalized learning, ultimately enhancing the educational experience. The research questions explore the effects of the technology-enhanced project on student engagement, collaboration, and creativity within the context of building a school site, radio, and journal. Additionally, the study aims to understand students’ perceptions of the project, including their satisfaction, motivation, and self-efficacy. The findings will suggest improvements to support STEM education and enhance student learning outcomes.

Paving the way to successful six sigma implementation: investigating critical success factors as precursors: an empirical study

PurposeNumerous attempts at installing six sigma (SS) have faced challenges and fallen short of the desired success. Thus, it becomes vital to identify the critical factors and characteristics that play a pivotal role in achieving successful adoption. In this study the research has aimed to highlight that a considerable number of corporate SS initiatives, around 60%, fail primarily due to the improper incorporation of essential elements and flawed assumptions.Design/methodology/approachTo validate the influence of critical success factors (CSFs) on SS accomplishment, the study employed a research design combining exploratory and mixed-methods approaches. A Likert-scale questionnaire was utilized, and a simple random sampling method was employed to gather data. Out of the 2,325 potential participants approached, 573 responses were received, primarily from Germany, the United Kingdom and Sweden. The analysis focused on 260 completed questionnaires and statistical methods including structural equation modeling (SEM), exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were utilized for data analysis.FindingsThe study acknowledged four essential components of CSFs that are imperative for sustaining the success of SS: (1) Competence of belt System employees; (2) Project management skills; (3) Organizational economic capability and (4) Leadership commitment and engagement. These factors were identified as significant contributors to the maintenance of SS’s success.Practical implicationsThe practical implications of this research imply that institutions, practitioners, and researchers can utilize the four identified factors to foster the sustainable deployment of SS initiatives. By incorporating these factors, organizations can enhance the effectiveness and longevity of their SS practices.Originality/valueThe investigation's originality lies in its contribution to assessing CSFs in SS deployment within the European automobile industry, utilizing a mixed-methods research design supplemented by descriptive statistics.

Project management for sustainable development: Critical determinants of technological competency for project managers with smart technologies

AbstractTo achieve sustainable development in the construction industry through effective management of projects implementing smart technologies, the technological competency of project managers (PMs) has become increasingly important. This study aims to: (i) investigate the significant attributes of PMs' technological competency when implementing smart technologies for effective project management; (ii) develop a Technological Competency Framework (TCF) for PMs; and (iii) assess critical determinants in the TCF. To achieve these objectives, the attributes of PMs' technological competency and their relative importance were investigated and assessed through a comprehensive literature review, expert interviews, a structured questionnaire survey and statistical analyses. The results showed that the identified attributes in TCF were statistically significant, with project management knowledge, personal characteristics, and skills in managing projects having the highest priority. This study enriches the knowledge of technological competency for PMs in project management and provides guidance for the industry to implement smart technologies for sustainable development.

Introducing project management to student pharmacists in a healthcare informatics course

Background: Project management (PM) is a desired skill for pharmacists regardless of their practice settings. However, PM skills often develop as a by-product of the pharmacy curriculum rather than by design. This study describes an immersive, active learning exercise aimed at introducing PM skills and methods to student pharmacists. Methods: A didactic lecture and team-based case to evaluate a technology purchase for a small-scale, independent pharmacy was implemented in a second-year Healthcare Informatics course. Teams applied PM concepts to task completion timelines, budget constraints, and stakeholder engagement. A subset of students (N=36) participated in the research study to evaluate intervention impact. Results: A net positive shift in student perceptions and confidence was observed following exposure to the skill and methods of applying PM in the active learning experience. Notably, student appreciation grew for the PM skillset relative to pharmacy as did their openness to additional PM training. Conclusion: PM is a marketable skill, and it is foundational to any area of pharmacy practice. Herein, an active learning exercise is described to meet the objective of introducing PM principles and methodology to student pharmacists. The competencies gained will be useful in navigating the demands of the professional curriculum and their future practice.

Developing a training program to enhance conservation awareness and attitudes among Thai hotel cooks: A comparative study

Thai cuisine, a reflection of the nation's cultural identity, has evolved over time and embodies the way of life, thoughts, and mindset of the Thai people. This study aims to develop a training program designed to heighten participants' understanding of conservation issues and assess changes in their conservation attitudes pre and post-training. The research, conducted among 354 Thai hotel cooks, reveals a fundamental challenge in Thai food preparation: the lack of standardized conservation and marketing practices. This encompasses basic culinary skills and regional cooking variations. Culinary schools often emphasize their own culinary philosophies, further exacerbating the issue. Results from the training program indicate that business owners significantly improved their cooking practices, adhered to the National Standard for Thai food sanitation, catered to dietary needs, and embraced authentic Thai cuisine. The Delphi method facilitated consensus on the appropriateness of the training program, and 100 participants reported enhanced project management skills and culinary expertise. The participants expressed satisfaction with the trainers' expertise and communication skills. This research has implications for training programs aimed at promoting awareness of traditional conservation issues and fostering conservation attitudes in the context of Thai food preparation.

Views and experiences of volunteers for the Commonwealth Partnerships for Antimicrobial Stewardship Extension Programme

Abstract Introduction Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health issue, which can be addressed through improved antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) knowledge and practice. The CwPAMS programme, launched in 2019, is funded by the UK aid Fleming Fund and managed by Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA) and Tropical Health and Education Trust (THET).1,2,3 It expanded in 2021 to support 14 health partnerships to enhance AMS capacity by leveraging UK expertise between the UK and 8 Commonwealth countries: Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia. CwPAMS was supported by UK and LMIC volunteers. Aim The aim of this study was to explore views and experiences of volunteers who took part in the CwPAMS Extension Programme. Methods A cross-sectional survey was developed using Survey Monkey by CPA internal AMS experts and programme managers. The questions explored the key benefits to health organisations and professionals, including the development of AMS skills and competencies, barriers to AMS, and personal/professional development opportunities. Open-ended questions were included to gather further insights into volunteers' views and experiences of volunteering and participating in CwPAMS. The survey was emailed to the 14 health partnerships who took part in the CwPAMS programme between October 2021-May 2022 to be disseminated to all volunteers. Data were collected between 14 April-1 June 2022, transferred to Microsoft Excel and analysed thematically, with frequency counting where appropriate. As it was an internal CPA programme evaluation, no ethical approval was required. Results A total of 83 survey responses were received. The majority respondents were female (60%) and were pharmacists (54%). Volunteers recognised the programme’s positive impact on a personal/professional and organisational level, by fostering knowledge exchange and enhancing AMS practices. Amongst volunteers, 87% noted that their organisation had benefited through their participation in CwPAMS, with 72% stating they had increased AMS capacity in their team. Volunteers highlighted several areas where they applied their newly acquired skills and experiences from their participation in CwPAMS. The most frequently mentioned impactful areas were: 1) Leadership and project management: Volunteers reported improved competencies in establishing local expertise in AMS and infection management, strengthening stakeholder and partnership engagement and improved confidence in project leadership, monitoring, and evaluation. 2) Use of new tools (digital/virtual) for training and AMS use 3) Mentoring, teaching and sharing their knowledge and experiences to support others in their professional development. In addition, volunteers reported they had the opportunity to network and form international partnerships, fostering multidisciplinary collaborations. They also experienced personal development by acquiring leadership, communication, problem-solving, grant application writing, and project management skills. Discussion/Conclusion CwPAMS offers volunteers within health partnerships a distinct opportunity for personal and professional growth, while simultaneously improving AMS related healthcare practices in their organisations. We will continue to expand upon the achievements of the programme by enhancing volunteer experiences, such as the Africa Leadership Fellowship-AMS offering as part of CwPAMS 2, to upskill and enable pharmacists in LMICs to develop leadership roles. Additionally, we aim to strengthen the evaluation of CwPAMS to showcase its impact to the UK and LMICs, respectively.

Beneficiaries’ Participation and Project Sustainability in Rwanda: A Case of Land Husbandry Water Harvesting and Hillside Irrigation Project in Rulindo District

Project sustainability is a global concern, with the goal of ensuring project objectives continue after official closure. However, project failure remains a mystery due to various factors. This study aimed to determine the impact of beneficiaries' participation in project identification, planning, and implementation on project sustainability in Rwanda. The research used stakeholder theory, reasoned action theory, and sustainability theory, with a descriptive design for both quantitative and qualitative data. The study involved 38 participants and a sample size of 35. The researcher analyzed and interpreted theoretical literature, empirical and critical literature, and presented a conceptual framework. Stratified sampling technique was used to select defendants representing various groups, and a regression model was used. Descriptive survey design was used to gather general information and administer questionnaires to respondents. Simple Random sampling method was used for staff selection. Regression analysis revealed that beneficiaries' participation in identification significantly affects project sustainability (β= 0.628, p =.000). However, beneficiaries' participation in planning had no statistically significant effect on project sustainability improvement (β= 0.048, p =.689). However, beneficiaries' participation in project implementation had a statistically significant effect on project sustainability (β= 0.584, p =.000). The study successfully achieved all research objectives and addressed the research gap by acquiring new knowledge from existing literature. The researcher recommends that governments, non-governmental organizations, and private sector federations implement measures to improve beneficiaries' participation in project management skills, and projects initiators, founders, donors, and managers should enhance their capabilities to contribute to project sustainability.

Critical Thinking Skills Enhancement through System Dynamics-Based Games: Insights from the Project Management Board Game Project

This study aims to explore and discuss the role of systems thinking and system dynamics-assisted games in enhancing critical thinking skills in learners. In more detail, the study relies on the use of a system dynamics-based interactive learning environment related to project management issues, followed by systems thinking-supported debriefing sessions. The interactive learning environment was developed and used in the form of a single-player, online, computer-based game. The game was designed to mimic all the necessary planning and operational activities needed to organize a wedding ceremony. The acquisition of critical thinking skills in learners was evaluated in three main ways: (1) players’ performances were analyzed through a scoring system embedded in the game that considers several performance dimensions; (2) feedback from the players was collected and analyzed by using basic content analysis; (3) players’ performances were analyzed using five main categories of structures that are typical of project management domains, i.e., project features, the rework cycle, project control, ripple effects, and knock-on effects. The findings show that the joint use of system dynamics and systems thinking tools and principles within a gaming environment has the potential to facilitate and enhance the acquisition of critical thinking skills in learners and may also provide valid support for educators and practitioners interested in the enhancement of project management skills.

Methodological foundations for the formation of pre-professional IT competencies of high school students in children’s technoparks “Quantorium”

Modern state programs for the development of education have set an important task to prepare young people for successful professional self-realization, which implies the involvement of students in programs and activities of early career guidance, support of professional self-determination, and development of professional and socio-cultural competencies.The methods and principles of organizing educational activities of high school students on the basis of the children’s technopark “Quantorium” aim the development of pre-professional IT competencies. Classes in the technopark will make the preparation of students for modern and future IT professions more effective, and will also contribute to their readiness for self-realization and further professional development.Approaches to the development of pre-professional competencies of high school students are based on the project-oriented teaching methodology that promotes the development of teamwork, communication, and project management skills, technological competencies, and creative thinking. The analysis of the modular design principle of additional general educational programs of the technopark is carried out on the example of work in the direction “≪IT-quantum≫”, which is a part of the “Quantorium”. “Quantorium” can become an effective tool to support educational activities aimed at the development of pre-professional competencies in high school students, contributing to the increase of interest in scientific, technical, and IT disciplines.

Unraveling the key determinants of successful six sigma implementation: an empirical investigation

This article aims to analyze the importance of critical success factors in effectively implementing Six Sigma. It delves into the determination of key factors and attributes that contribute to successful adoption, considering that not all Six Sigma endeavors have achieved the desired outcomes. According to the research, a significant portion of corporate Six Sigma initiatives (approximately 60%) fail due to incorrect integration of vital factors and misguided assumptions. To conduct the study, a research survey incorporating a Likert scale questionnaire with a simple random sampling method was distributed among 2,325 potential participants, resulting in 573 responses, primarily from Germany, the United Kingdom, and Sweden. Through various structural equation modeling (SEM) approaches, such as exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), the study revealed four essential elements for success: (1) the competency of belt system employees; (2) project management skills; (3) organizational economic capability; and (4) leadership commitment and involvement. These findings hold significant implications for institutions, practitioners, and researchers seeking to incorporate these elements into their Six Sigma deployment strategies for long-term success. The study's originality lies in its contribution to assessing critical success factors in Six Sigma deployment within the European automobile industry, utilizing a mixed-methods research design supplemented by descriptive statistics.

Asynchronous e-learning: A collaborative, process-based solution for design and development challenges

This paper presents a case study of an asynchronous online learning program, ‘Project Management Skills’, benchmarked to the Exam Content Outline (ECO) that was released in October 2022 for the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) qualification of the Project Management Institute (PMI), USA. It investigates how the design and development processes have incorporated contemporary research findings and practices in online course design and development. Key challenges of the program include supporting resource persons with traditional, face-to-face teaching experiences to effectively deliver content in online asynchronous mode, as well as producing content in the English language in a manner that can be easily digested by students who are not native English speakers. The study presents an analysis of data gathered from key informant interviews with Content Developers, as well as project documentation such as meeting minutes and reviewer comments. The findings indicate that the multiple review model employed in the design and development process complements best practices in asynchronous online education and enables a high level of collaboration which reduces the burden on the Content Developer to take on multiple roles. Additionally, it facilitates the input and support of a diverse group of team members with specialist knowledge.

Impact of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) on Learners' Performance in Business Courses

Purpose: The study aims to introduce a new format of education called outcome-based education (OBE), its importance, and its impact on learners' performance in business courses. Theoretical framework: Outcome-based education (OBE) ensures that new learners enter the classroom exceptionally prepared with the skills, mindsets, and values required to grow into successful adults after they leave the educational system. Outcome-based education (OBE) is a teaching approach that concentrates on how novices will perform in the future and how to use knowledge to accomplish objectives after instruction. Methodology: The qualitative method was chosen as the content is theoretical, for outcome-based education has been compared with conventional education. This study begins by tracing the evolution of outcome-based education (OBE) and introducing crucial implementation criteria. Following the discussion of impacts, it is covered how the concept of repercussions necessitates a paradigm shift in evaluation and evaluation methodologies. The study then goes through the crucial effects of implementing the exercise and methods for rating and evaluating learners' success in business school. These repercussions are closely related to discussing the four critical philosophies of outcome-based education (OBE). Based on that, results are drawn. Results and conclusion: It is confirmed that OBE develops a learner's Fundamental knowledge, problem-solving skills, research skills, technical skills, social skills, ethical values, communication skills, project management skills, and life-long skills that have a significant impact on one's career. Originality/Value: Outcome-based education (OBE), which directs learners in building their professional careers and increases their knowledge and creativity, is the newest education trend. In the context of their workplace, OBE might support their healthy development. The National Board of Accreditation (NBA) requires the application of the appropriate evaluation strategies for learners to acquire the skills indicated for outcome-based education. Outcome-based education (OBE) is attractive because it can improve coaching, the educational system, and learners' performance, which primarily rely on evaluating graduates' skills. Through this process, the learner will learn how to bridge the gap between tutoring and results-based mastering techniques. No one in South Asia didn't undertake any research on the subject; as a result, the fresh information would help to enhance management, encourage innovation, and boost performance. Contribution: The suggested methodological model, one of the most fundamental advances in business education, would improve scientific capabilities in the training process at the business school and permit a widespread incidence in the academic environment.

Managerial Skills: Tool for Instructional Supervision in Secondary Schools in Rivers State

The Paper Explored Managerial Skills: Tool For Instructional Supervision In Secondary Schools In Rivers State. The Concepts Of Managerial Skills, Conceptual Skills, Technical Skills, Human Relation Skills Among Others Were Discussed. Highlight Was Done On The Steps To Acquiring Conceptual Skills, How To Acquire Technical Skills While The Factors Of Project Management Skills Were Further Discussed. Again, The Qualities Of Effective Team Management Were State As Well As Time Management Skills. Furthermore, Mention Was Made Of Specific Roles Played By The School Principal While Reasons Were Given Why School Principals In Rivers State Should Pursue Instructional Supervision. The Conclusion Was That Managerial Skills In Very Important In The Day To Day Running Of School, So Was Necessary For A Principal To Have. It Was Then Recommended That The School Principal Should Give Himself To Adequate Training That Would Encourage Him To Satisfy The Demands Of His Office, The Principal Must See His School Which Is The Primary Place Of Assignment As A Ground For Action Research And The Implementation Of Findings, The School Principal Should Employ Enough Corporation And Motivation As Well As Mentorship Skills In Order To Endear His Subordinates To Him, The Principal Should Attend Conferences And Workshops Organized For People In His Category In Order To Share And Network Among Contemporaries And The Application Of Clinical Supervision Skills By The Principal Would Enhance His Capacity And Build His Teachers Up To Support Him More.

Using Competition to Improve Students’ Learning in a Project-Based Learning Course

In this article, we presented our findings regarding an online project-based learning course, delivered to 64 students from the Federal University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, during the COVID-19 pandemic, in the second semester of 2021. The course had the goal of teaching Project Management by means of a competition (the Data Science Olympics). Our goal was to investigate the systemic impacts of the competition on learning. Data was collected by means of a questionnaire and from comments posted on the teams’ websites. We followed a convergent parallel mixed methods approach. We analyzed the data using a causal loop diagram to connect the insights gained with quantitative and qualitative results. Our findings were as follows: 1)The use of competition in a project-based learning centered course helped the students to develop project management and data science skills, and fostered metacognition and knowledge sharing opportunities. 2)The Data Science Olympics increased the students’ intrinsic motivation to learn. 3)The project-based teaching practices (scaffolding the students’ learning, giving meaningful feedback to the students, and managing the activities) facilitated the students' learning. 4)The problems the students faced throughout the Project (dropouts, communication problems, lack of commitment, difficulty scheduling online team meetings) impacted negatively on the students' motivation.

Vertically integrated project based method applied to small satellite technology development

Small satellite missions and technology development presents a unique platform for preparing undergraduate engineering students for future careers. University based small satellite projects provide students access to hands-on opportunities to apply theory learned in classes through computational analysis, hardware experimentation, and product design. They also allow students to gain project management skills and see systems engineering and design life cycle from a perspective few semesters long courses and lectures can provide. Since 2017, undergraduates have been involved in the Purdue University team investigating the Film Evaporation MEMS Tunable Array (FEMTA), a novel microthruster that evaporates ultra-pure deionized water to generate thrust and is intended for use as active attitude control on small satellites. This technology development project is well suited for including undergraduates, as the system operation can be easily understood by a student with only an introductory understanding of fluid mechanics. Undergraduates initially investigated single axis rotation control of a model CubeSat and now focus a suborbital payload to test the propellant management system. Undergraduates earn degree credit for aiding the faculty and graduate students in this long-term, multidisciplinary, and vertically-integrated – including students from freshmen to seniors -research project team. Vertically integrating allows students to participate for their entire undergraduate studies, while providing projects with stability and a knowledge base shared amongst many students. While this method can be applied to projects that are not aerospace related, small satellite projects allow students to add a breadth and depth of subject matter to their professional development. This project has included mechanical engineers, aerospace engineers, electrical and computer engineers, and computer science majors. This environment grants students the ability to learn new perspectives and problem-solving techniques from their peers. By requiring students to earn degree credit for project work, students become more invested and develop better professional habits such as proper documentation and communication. Student testimonials have cited this project as an asset while talking with company recruiters and for graduate school applications. The same methods developed on the FEMTA project are also being applied to the Purdue student team that is developing the camera system for the NASA Solar Cruiser mission, with similar success.