“In a rapidly changing world, it’s more important than ever to stay agile and manage projects effectively.” – SCS learner, Jeremy Kesten
Jeremy Kesten always has a project on the go. As founder and owner of Park Agency print shop and a contributor to strategic IT and AI solutions through Xanu Inc., he balances multiple initiatives while also promoting concerts across Toronto. To keep pace, Kesten knew he needed a more adaptive and effective approach to project management.
The University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies (SCS) Agile Project Management Certificate provided exactly that. Its emphasis on value delivery and team empowerment, rather than rigid top-down management, immediately resonated with him.
“This way is much more aligned with how I like to work. The SCS certificate provided the necessary formal, structured education to transition my career and validate my belief that this adaptive mindset is the future of project management,” he explains.
The program blends technical Agile skills with essential leadership competencies. While Kesten expected to deepen his Agile expertise, he was surprised to find that the Leading Projects in Organizations course had the greatest impact.
“This course directly addressed my ability to lead and interact within a professional environment,” he says. “I now possess far greater confidence in group facilitation, stakeholder communication, and presentation delivery, which are essential skills for any successful change agent or project leader in a dynamic environment.”
Hands-on, team-based assignments helped Kesten further develop his practical skills, while instruction in topics like organizational cultures and conflict management equipped him with the interpersonal knowledge necessary to handle challenging project dynamics.
This new set of skills and knowledge have bolstered Kesten’s professional confidence and ability to apply a strategic, structured approach to new initiatives.
“Knowing that I am entering new projects, specifically in AI software development, I’ve been able to proactively structure them for success. This confidence is rooted in the program's rigor, which taught me not only the mechanics of Agile but also the discipline required for continuous monitoring and adaptation,” he shares.
“Because of the training, I'm now certain we can maintain the vigilance and documentation necessary to track deliverables effectively using tools like Jira, which is critical for meeting the strict requirements of funding programs.”
Kesten says the program has significantly changed his approach to his career, shifting his focus toward strategic project governance. “Specifically, conversations with advisors for programs like the Scientific Research and Experimental Development tax incentive have underscored that meticulous job tracking, time allocation, and adherence to project tasks are not just best practices — they are critical requirements for compliance and the release of essential funding,” he explains.
“My certificate skills in Agile project tracking and reporting are now professionally essential. It’s given me the competence and confidence to not only develop these complex AI projects but also to effectively manage and report on them to secure and maintain necessary financial support.”
Kesten encourages anyone considering completing the Agile Project Management certificate to prioritize consistency and engagement. “The course material is comprehensive, and the best way to internalize the complex concepts of Agile is through steady, incremental effort rather than trying to absorb everything just before a deadline.”
Specifically, he recommends staying proactive on assignments, making full use of the online Quercus platform quizzes, and treating course recordings as a valuable resource for review.
Kesten is grateful for the support of instructors and peers throughout his journey, and for the practical skills he has gained. He believes these skills are essential in today’s workforce.
“In a rapidly changing world, it’s more important than ever to stay agile and manage projects effectively,” he says.
Ready to strengthen your project management skills and lead with confidence? Explore the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies Agile Project Management Certificate and discover how you can develop the practical, in-demand skills needed to succeed in today’s dynamic work environment. Learn more and take the next step in your career.
