Jin Chen, PMP
For spearheading the development of a new generation of energy-saving engines
Jin Chen is emerging as a power player—pushing the standard for diesel commercial vehicles’ energy-saving capacities. In 2020, he and his team at Bosch Powertrain Systems Co. Ltd. embarked on a groundbreaking project to develop a fuel-injection system capable of achieving brake thermal efficiency (BTE) far above the rates typical of most eco-friendly engines.
Complicating matters for Chen and his team? An unexpected scope change that necessitated reselecting components and restarting validations—threatening a timely market launch. Chen quickly pivoted to problem-solving mode.
First, he evaluated if part of the validations could be covered by ones done in the original model’s development. Then he negotiated for more test resources to implement parallel processing. It worked: Chen delivered the project on time in mid-2022, meeting the project sponsor’s expectations—and setting industry benchmarks. But he’s not done. Throughout the project,
Chen and his team captured and documented developments to create a pathway toward even greater BTE development in the future.
Trained as an engineer, Chen feels like he has found his true calling. “I enjoy the process as a project leader,” he says.
Q&A: Jin Chen on how young project managers are ready to lead
What’s your project management superpower?
Reviewing projects from a higher perspective. It helps to keep me current on the project’s overview status and make a reasonable project work breakdown structure and time plan. It also helps to respond in a timely manner once project changes are identified or occur.
How are young people changing the world of projects now?
Young people are passionate about learning new technologies and using them creatively for project management. They respect tradition but also aren’t afraid to break it.
What’s the biggest challenge facing young project leaders now?
Gaining trust, due to being perceived as inexperienced. But this is also a motivation for young leaders to keep promoting and demonstrating professionalism in daily work.