🔁 In Part 2, I shared why AI must be managed like mission-critical infrastructure — with governance, cross-functional ownership, and frameworks like #CPMAI to guide implementation.
But here’s the missing piece:
Most federal AI RFPs still don’t require the one role that makes all of that possible.
⚠️ The AI Project Manager is Still Missing
Federal RFPs often request:
- Data scientists
- AI developers
- Cloud architects
- Analysts
But rarely do they ask for a trained AI project manager — someone with the skills to translate mission needs, manage AI risks, and lead multi-disciplinary teams. That gap is a major reason why even funded AI projects fail to deliver impact.
🧠 Why We Need an AI PM Labor Category Now
- AI ≠ Traditional IT
AI projects involve model oversight, ethical guardrails, and evolving data beyond what a general IT PM can handle. - CPMAI-Certified PMs Bring Structure
The Cognitive Project Management for AI (CPMAI) framework provides step-by-step guidance for managing AI from idea to production, with governance baked in. - Better RFPs, Better Outcomes
Requiring a CPMAI-certified AI PM in RFPs means more predictable performance, clearer accountability, and greater public trust.
✳️ It’s Time to Formalize the Role
Federal agencies should immediately:
- Create a new Labor Category for AI Project Managers (CPMAI-certified)
- Include this role in all AI-related RFPs and task orders
- Invest in developing internal AI PM talent to reduce vendor overdependence
🔄 Looking Back and Ahead
This completes my 3-part series on setting up AI projects for federal success:
- Why projects fail before they begin
- How to manage AI like core infrastructure
- And why AI PMs must be required on every RFP
💬 Have you seen an RFP that called for a dedicated AI project manager?
If not, what would it take to make it standard?
If not, what would it take to make it standard?
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