In Memoriam

Robert “Bob” G. Staples was a PMI Fellow whose contributions helped shape both the profession of project management and the growth of PMI as a global community. As one of PMI's early leaders, he combined thought leadership, volunteer service, and a deep commitment to advancing the practice of project management.

One of Bob's most significant contributions was the development of PMI's former professional journal, Project Management Quarterly (PMQ), now Project Management Journal (PMJ). In April 1970, he helped establish the publication and served as editor, publisher, and publications chairman until 1972. Throughout his career, Bob authored PMI publications, contributed research and thought leadership on project management in the pharmaceutical industry, and shared his expertise through presentations, workshops, and PMI events.

Bob was equally dedicated to serving the PMI community. He served as PMI Secretary, PMI Vice President of Member Services, Chair of the PMI Ethics Committee, and twice chaired the PMI Nominating Committee. He also helped organize PMI Seminars and Symposiums, advised PMI's Pharmaceutical R&D Specific Interest Group, served as project manager for PMI's study of emerging project management software, and contributed as a Board Member of the PMI Delaware Valley Chapter.

Known for his commitment to volunteerism and service, Bob had a lasting impact on PMI and the broader project management profession.

To continue his legacy, the 2027 PMI Fellows Scholarship will be named in Bob’s honor. His influence remains woven into PMI's history and the global community it serves.

Robert “Max” Wideman was a beloved PMI Fellow, early leader in the PMI community, and trailblazer whose impact was deeply rooted in advancing project management knowledge.

Max was a British-Canadian project management consultant who had a long career in Civil Engineering and construction management across three continents. He had been active in the PMI Community since 1974. His leadership spanned the earliest days of PMI, including roles as founding President of the PMI Canadian West Coast Chapter (1979), President of PMI (1987), and Chair of the PMI Board of Directors (1988).

In the mid-1980s, he led a team of 80 North American PMI Volunteers to create the first edition of A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide). This foundational book has become the globally recognized reference for project management, helping to establish a common language, principles, and best practices for managing projects.

He also authored several books on project management, including A Framework for Project and Program Management Integration (1991), Project and Program Risk Management: A Guide to Managing Project Risks and Opportunities (1992), Cost Control of Capital Projects (Second Edition,1995), and A Management Framework for Project, Program and Portfolio Integration (2004).

Throughout his life, Max was recognized for his contributions to the profession. He was named a PMI Fellow (1989) and PMI Person of the Year (1986), as well as being awarded with PMI Distinguished Contribution (1985). He also was named a Fellow for the Institution of Civil Engineers, UK (1969) and the Engineering Institute of Canada (1977).

The Wideman Education Foundation (WEF) promotes sound project management principles and skills among young people, in Max’s honor. The foundation is dedicated to promoting project management skills among high school and undergraduate students. Its mission is, "To teach, develop, promote, and encourage the use of proven, successful project management skills that are needed every day by everyone."

To continue his legacy, the 2027 PMI Fellows Scholarship will be named in Max’s honor. Max was a pillar of PMI, and his contributions helped shape the profession and global community we are today.