About Us
The Project Authority is a woman-owned business dedicated to helping leaders run successful projects—so they can run successful businesses.
A note from our founder
Hi, I’m Susan Vaughn.
I love helping people fuel better results by running effective projects.
Early in my career, I gravitated toward project management. It was the perfect combination of technical and personal. I gained over a decade of experience in project management at a large accounting/systems consulting firm. The next step up was to become a partner. I would have been the first female in this role.
But I looked up and saw that everyone above me traveled a lot. They were frequently away from their kids. As a new mom, I knew this wouldn’t work for my family.
I started The Project Authority to do what I love while maintaining a work-life balance. Since then, I’ve worked with hundreds of leaders to improve their project management—and I was there for my two daughters as they grew into adults.
With 33 years of experience, I’ve seen all types of challenges, from complex IT projects to large-scale organizational changes. I enjoy solving complicated problems and making personal connections along the way.
My team is here to help you improve client satisfaction, retain top talent, and improve your bottom line. If your organization needs project management support, get in touch, and we’ll create a custom plan just for you.
Fun Facts
Indiana University Alum with both daughters going to IU (class of 2022 and 2025)
Seen favorite band, Barenaked Ladies, over 30 times (including on the inaugural Chips & Dips cruise)
Jack Russell Terrier mom
Loves to Travel
Been to all 50 states
Been to over 25 countries
Empty nester and loving it
Addicted to [solidcore] workouts
Mentor for the next generation of women in STEM leaders
Professional Credentials





Susan’s Experience
(For you diehard PMBOK people out there…)
Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) — Project Management Institute
Certified Trainer - Project Management Institute
Project Management Curriculum Creator — Purdue University’s Engineering Professional Education department
Board member and former president — Women & Hi Tech (An organization committed to encouraging women in STEM leaders)
Project Management Instructor — Purdue University’s Engineering Professional Education department
Training Project Manager — FirstTuesday™ project (responsible for creating a statewide voter registration and election system for the States of Indiana and Virginia)
Breathe new life into your project managment.
If you’re ready to have happier clients, team members, and financials, let’s chat about a plan for you.
The Fundamentals of Project Management.
Download the how-to guide on the five essential phases of a successful project—regardless the size or length.