Gardian, Technology
Our Gardian of the Month is Sarah Martin, Event Planner for Michigan Municipal League
EG: What is a topic you are currently interested in learning more about, but have yet to pursue?
SM: I’ve recently dipped my toes into the world of pursuing a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. With more than 10 years of experience in meetings and events—particularly within associations—I’ve realized that much of my day-to-day work already lives firmly in the project management space, just with a slightly different playbook.
In events, it’s easy (and sometimes necessary) to get deep into the weeds—timelines, logistics, contingencies, and the hundred small details that make everything run smoothly. But I’m increasingly interested in zooming out and connecting those details back to the bigger picture. When you take a step back, you start to see that an event isn’t just an event; it’s part of a much larger organizational strategy with broader goals and long-term impact.
I’m excited by the idea of building on the skills I’ve honed over the years and applying a more formal, full-scope project management lens to them. Learning to think at a higher level—without losing my appreciation for the details—is a challenge I’m eager to take on (once I officially move past the toe-dipping stage).
EG: What are some effective strategies you use for initiating conversations at networking events?
SM: I always remind myself that the person I’m about to talk to probably feels just as awkward as I do—and that alone takes the edge off. One strategy I rely on is starting with light, surface-level topics to ease into the conversation and build comfort on both sides. Networking events naturally offer plenty of shared context, and once you find a bit of common ground, conversations tend to take off on their own.
Another key strategy is managing my own mindset: getting out of my head, taking a deep breath, and simply starting. I also give myself permission not to force every interaction. If a conversation isn’t flowing, I stay polite, wrap it up gracefully, and move on—knowing that not every exchange needs to become a lasting connection.
Finally, when a topic comes up that I’m genuinely passionate about—whether professional or personal—I lean into it. Authentic enthusiasm goes a long way, and those moments are often where the most meaningful and memorable connections are made.
EG: What is a challenge you have encountered applying new skills to your work and how did you overcome it?
SM: One of the biggest challenges in applying new skills at work is that people—myself included—can be naturally resistant to change. Change can feel uncomfortable, even a little intimidating, especially when you’ve settled into a groove of “the way it’s always been done.” The tricky part is that without realizing it, comfort can slowly turn into stagnation.
I try to keep a simple mantra in mind: someone always knows something you don’t. Often, it’s not a massive overhaul but a small insight—like discovering a colleague uses the same software in a slightly different way that saves time or streamlines a process. You may both be effective, but there’s almost always an opportunity to improve how the work gets done.
Stepping into my current role involved significant process change. I had to first understand the systems already in place, then evaluate what was still working, what needed to be reimagined, and what was ready to be retired. That kind of assessment takes time and thoughtful consideration—and understandably, not everyone is immediately eager to embrace change.
What helped was consistently grounding those conversations in a shared purpose. When you remind yourself—and others—that you’re all working toward the same organizational goals, it becomes easier to move forward together. At the end of the day, growth requires innovation, and innovation requires the willingness to evolve—even when it feels a little uncomfortable.
EG: Just for Fun - What is your favorite hobby and how did you get into it?
SM: Famping—short for “fancy camping.” And no, it’s not quite glamping; there’s still a healthy dose of dirt involved. The term was coined by a friend and me over the years as our annual camping trips slowly (and unapologetically) evolved. What started as a simple getaway turned into a creative challenge: Could we bake brie in puff pastry over a campfire? Should we attempt specialty cocktails in the woods? What is the fanciest pizza you can realistically make in a pie iron?
The goal became bringing a few of the finer things from home into the rustic wilderness—without losing the charm of being outdoors. There’s something deeply satisfying about unplugging, laughing at our ambitious setups, and enjoying Michigan summers at their best.
What makes it even more meaningful now is being able to share it with my kids. Watching them develop an appreciation for the outdoors—and for our beautiful home state—has made famping one of my favorite traditions.
EG: What is a resource that has been valuable to you in your work, and what makes you appreciate it?
Click the video below to see Sarah's response!
Link to Resource: Monday.com
