Project management is more than just ticking off tasks — it's about leading teams, solving problems, and driving successful outcomes. If you're thinking about launching (or levelling up) your career in project management, here's a practical roadmap to help you get started.

1. Reflect on your strengths and goals

Before diving in, take a moment to understand what you enjoy, what you're good at, and where you want to go.

Do you thrive on structure? Love solving problems or coordinating people? These are all key ingredients of a successful project manager.

Think about the industries or types of projects that excite you — construction, IT, healthcare, education — project management is needed everywhere. Aligning your interests early can help you build a career you actually enjoy.

2. Get trained in the right methodologies

Project management isn't guesswork — it’s built on frameworks and best practices. Getting certified shows employers you know your stuff.

We offer a range of industry-recognised qualifications, including:

• APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) and Project Management Qualification (PMQ)

• APMG Change Management and PeopleCert Managing Successful Programmes (MSP)

• PeopleCert PRINCE2® Foundation & Practitioner

Whether you're brand new to the field or looking to formalise your experience, there’s a course to suit your level.

3. Gain real-world experience

You don’t need the “Project Manager” title to start gaining project experience. Look for opportunities to:

• Get involved in internal projects at your workplace

• Volunteer to help manage events or initiatives

• Support project leads and observe how they plan, track, and deliver outcomes

The key is to get hands-on, even if it's in small ways at first. Every project helps you build confidence, skills, and a portfolio of experience.

4. Get certified to boost your credibility

Certifications aren't just a checkbox — they give you a competitive edge and signal to employers that you're serious.

Alongside APM, APMG and PeopleCert courses, you might also consider agile or project controls pathways, depending on your career goals.

Plus, joining professional bodies like the Association for Project Management (APM) gives you access to events, resources, and a network of like-minded professionals.

5. Keep improving and growing

Project management is constantly evolving, so your learning shouldn’t stop after your first course.

Regularly reflect on what’s gone well (and what hasn’t), seek feedback, and keep developing your skills — whether that’s through new qualifications, podcasts, books, or networking with other PMs.

Ready to get started?

Explore our accredited project management training courses and take the next step in your career. Let’s build your future in project management — together.

You may also be interested in:

• Top KPI's Every Project Professional Should Know
• Emotional Intelligence in Project Management & Why it Matters
• Four Ways to Become a Better Project Leader