Michael Leister, PMP, MA

Michael Leister, PMP, MA has a diverse work experience spanning various industries and roles. Starting in 2001, they worked as a Fire Fighter for the Fort Smith Fire Department, where they were recognized for their exceptional service and leadership. In 2008, they became an FA Battery Commander in the National Guard. Michael joined the 2-142d Field Artillery in 2010 as an Operations/Training Officer and later served as a Human Resources Officer Brigade for the 142d Fires Brigade in 2011. From 2012 to 2015, they held the position of Program Manager-Battalion Executive Officer in the HHB 2-142d Field Artillery.

Transitioning to the corporate world, Leister joined NCR Corporation in 2016, where they held multiple roles including Senior Project Manager, Program Manager, and Director-Retail Deployments. In 2020, they worked as a Program Manager at Kitestring Technical Services - Sam's Club INTL. From 2021 to 2022, they were a Senior Operations Program Manager at Amazon. Currently, Leister serves as the Principal Business Architect at Kitestring Technical Services.

Throughout their career, Leister has demonstrated expertise in operations and program management, strategic planning, and leadership. Michael holds a PMP certification and a Master's degree.

Michael Leister, PMP, MA has a diverse education history. Michael obtained their Master of Arts (MA) degree in Management and Leadership from Liberty University in 2015. Prior to that, they attended the US Army Command and General Staff College from 2010 to 2013, where they earned an ILE degree. Michael also completed the Field Artillery Captains Career Course in 2007 and the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course in 2002.

Before joining the military, Michael attended Arkansas Tech University from 1995 to 1999, where they obtained a Bachelor's degree in Music Teacher Education. Michael also completed basic training in the US Army in 1998. Michael completed their high school education at Pocola High School from 1991 to 1995.

In addition to their formal education, Michael has obtained several certifications. In 2016, they obtained the PMP (Project Management Professional) certification from the Project Management Institute. Michael also holds various certifications in different areas, such as Green Belt Certification (GB) from the Six Sigma Global Institute in 2021, and certifications in accounting, finance, coaching and employee development, and program management from LinkedIn in 2018.