PMA People

Q&A with our People

Al Azhang

Director

What are you passionate about and how do you pursue that passion at PMA?

I am deeply passionate about project management and working with people. For me, project management isn’t just a job – it’s a calling that blends leadership, organization, and collaboration. I love how it involves guiding a team towards a common goal, solving complex problems, and delivering tangible results. At PMA, a project management consulting firm, I get to live this passion every day in a culture that values structured processes and strong relationships. As PMA’s own ethos highlights, “Our people are at their best when they’re working on challenging and complex projects… Confident, collaborative and disciplined.” This resonates with me deeply and motivates my daily work. 

What current project(s) are you working on?

Currently I’m working on the LA County Department of Public Work, PMDIII, Roads/Bridges/Airports. 

Who/what inspires you to push yourself? (Personal heroes, family members, ideas)

Michael Jordan and Warren Buffett inspire me in complementary ways that shape both my mindset and approach to life. Jordan’s relentless work ethic, mental toughness, and refusal to settle push me to continually raise my standards, especially in the face of challenges. Meanwhile, Buffett’s strategic patience, long-term thinking, and grounded wisdom reinforce the value of thoughtful decision-making and surrounding myself with quality people. Together, they represent a powerful blend of passion, discipline, and continuous self-improvement—principles I strive to embody in everything I do. 

What are the most positive aspects of working at PMA? Or Share your impressions of PMA’s culture.

Working at PMA is a truly positive experience thanks to its culture of collaboration, professionalism, and continuous growth. From the start, I’ve felt supported by a knowledgeable and approachable team that values shared success and high-quality project delivery. PMA encourages initiative, open communication, and professional development through mentorship and training, all while respecting work-life balance. What stands out most is the company’s strong commitment to accountability, integrity, and doing things the right way—creating an empowering, inclusive environment where individuals thrive, and clients trust our work. 

What is something innovative happening in your industry that makes you excited about the future?

One of the most exciting innovations in our industry is the growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into project management. From predictive analytics that forecast potential risks and delays to AI-powered scheduling tools and resource optimization, these technologies are transforming how we plan, execute, and monitor projects. What excites me most is how AI can enhance decision-making, automate repetitive tasks, and provide real-time insights—allowing project managers to focus more on strategic leadership and team collaboration. As AI continues to evolve, I believe it will elevate the entire discipline of project management, making our work more efficient, data-driven, and forward-looking. 

What university or college did you graduate from?

I graduated from the University of Tehran, Engineering Faculty. 

What is your favorite local establishment/feature (restaurant, museum, stadium, etc.)?

One of my favorite local features is spending time at Laguna Beach and Huntington Beach—both offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and vibrant coastal culture. As someone who’s passionate about surfing, I find Huntington Beach especially energizing with its iconic waves and surf-friendly vibe. Laguna Beach, on the other hand, offers a more serene escape with its artistic charm, scenic coves, and beautiful trails. Whether I’m out on the water catching waves or winding down with a sunset walk, these spots are where I feel most inspired and connected to the Southern California lifestyle.  

Provide a fun fact or secret talent about yourself?

I have been drafted for 2025 LADPW Basketball league by Average Joes team and I’m very excited about it as someone who played basketball through high school and college with the school teams and now at almost 50.