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About PM

What is Product Management?

Product Management is the art and science of developing, launching, and improving products that meet customer needs while driving business success. Product Managers (PMs) act as the bridge between engineering, design, marketing, and business strategy, ensuring products are built efficiently and deliver real value. They define the vision, prioritize features, and work cross-functionally to bring ideas to life.

Why is Product Management a Great Career?

PMs get to solve real problems, think strategically, and make an impact, all while working in fast-paced, innovative environments. It’s a role that blends creativity with analytical thinking, offering the opportunity to lead without direct authority and work on cutting-edge technology. Plus, PMs often have competitive salaries, rapid career growth, and the ability to transition into leadership roles.

What Companies do BYU Students Place At?

Job Opportunities & Essential Skills for Students

Breaking into Product Management out of college can be challenging but highly rewarding. Top tech companies like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and startups offer Associate Product Manager (APM) programs designed for new grads. Other paths include internships, rotational programs, and technical roles that lead into PM positions.

To succeed in these roles, aspiring PMs should develop these essential skills:

  • Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking – Ability to analyze challenges and find creative, impactful solutions.
  • Communication & Storytelling – Clear articulation of product vision to engineers, designers, and stakeholders.
  • Data Analysis & Metrics-Driven Decision Making – Comfort with tools like SQL, Excel, and A/B testing to track product performance.
  • Technical Fluency – Understanding how software development works (coding knowledge is a plus but not required).
  • User Experience (UX) & Design Thinking – Ensuring products are intuitive and enjoyable to use.
  • Agile & Project Management – Managing timelines, prioritizing tasks, and working efficiently in sprints.
  • Leadership & Influence – Driving alignment among teams without formal authority.