For Rehan Sher, successful project management is about more than plans, timelines and processes. It is also about people.
As an instructor in McMaster Continuing Education’s Project Management program, Rehan helps students understand both sides of project work. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience in project management, change management, human resources, and learning and development, he brings practical insights from healthcare, pharmaceuticals, financial services and higher education into the classroom.
“My background bridges HR, project management and change management,” says Rehan. “I help students see how the people side and process side of projects connect.”
Learning grounded in real experience
Throughout his career, Rehan has managed projects and led change in complex, regulated environments. Teaching gives him an opportunity to share that experience with professionals who want to strengthen their skills and apply what they learn at work.
“I’ve spent my career running projects and leading change in complex, regulated environments, and I wanted to turn that hands-on experience into learning that students can apply right away,” he says.
Rehan has also helped shape learning at McMaster Continuing Education. He assisted in the development of the course, MGT 203: Change Management. The course is now offered across multiple programs at McMaster Continuing Education.
Building skills for real project work
Rehan’s classes are designed for new and aspiring project managers, career changers, and professionals who manage projects as part of their work, even if “project manager” is not in their job title.
Students learn how to manage a project from beginning to end, including how to define its scope, develop a plan, establish governance, engage stakeholders and guide a team through change.
Rather than relying heavily on lectures, Rehan uses simulations, case studies, real datasets and hands-on activities. This gives students opportunities to practice what they are learning and consider how they could use it in the workplace.
“My teaching style is applied and learner-centred, grounded in adult learning principles and built around simulations, real datasets, and case-based work rather than lecture.”
This approach helps students connect their learning to situations they may encounter in the workplace. Rehan also incorporates AI-enabled and digital learning tools into his teaching. He has chaired an AI in Education conference for more than 100 participants and delivered PMP® Exam Prep through PMI Authorized Training Partner programs.
Start small and put your learning into practice
Rehan encourages students to apply their new skills before they feel they have mastered every tool or approach.
“Don’t wait until you feel like an expert to start applying the tools. Use them on something small right away. And remember the people side: communication and stakeholder management matter as much as the schedule.”
Along with his professional experience, Rehan holds graduate degrees in Management Sciences and Economics, as well as PMP®, CHRL® and Prosci® certifications. He has also completed a Master’s Certificate in Adult Training & Development and is the author of The 60-Minute Guide to Project Management.
Through his practical teaching style, Rehan helps students build the skills to manage projects with greater confidence while keeping the people affected by the work at the centre.
Learn more about McMaster Continuing Education’s Project Management program.
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