The project delivery landscape is rapidly evolving, and the role of project controls has never been more critical. Project controls are essential to ensure the successful delivery of projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality. However, the industry is facing a significant challenge: a shortage of skilled project planners and controllers. This shortage, coupled with the increasing complexity of projects, highlights the urgent need for comprehensive training programmes that equip professionals not only with software skills but also with a deep understanding of the fundamentals of project controls. This article explores the importance of training in this field, the current skills gap, and how training can attract and retain top talent in project controls.

The Growing Demand for Project Controls Professionals

The need for new infrastructure, technological advancements, and sustainable investments has driven an unprecedented surge in demand for project controls professionals—those responsible for planning, scheduling, estimating, cost control, and risk management. These roles are vital for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of project execution, making them crucial to the success of any large-scale project.

Despite this growing demand, there is a notable shortage of qualified professionals in project controls. Several factors contribute to this shortage, including challenges in attracting new entrants and a lack of structured training pathways to retain those in the profession. Traditionally, the pathway to becoming a project controls professional has been less defined than that for project managers, leaving many individuals without clear guidance on how to progress in their careers.

Training Beyond Software Proficiency

While proficiency in project controls software is crucial, it is not sufficient on its own. Effective project controls require a thorough understanding of the entire project lifecycle, including the intricacies of planning and scheduling, risk management, cost estimation, and scope definition. Unfortunately, many practitioners possess expertise in software tools but lack the foundational knowledge necessary for effective analysis, interrogation, and decision-making. This gap can lead to inefficiencies, delays, and cost overruns on major projects.

Comprehensive training programmes are essential to bridge this knowledge gap. These programmes should not only teach the technical aspects of project controls but also provide a deep understanding of the principles and methodologies that underpin these processes. For instance, understanding how to conduct a thorough risk assessment can prevent potential project derailments, while accurate cost estimation can ensure financial sustainability. These skills are critical for project controls professionals to make informed decisions and contribute meaningfully to project success.

In response to the skills shortage, many companies and sectors are adopting a "grow your own" strategy. This approach involves investing in the training and development of existing employees or new hires to build the necessary skills internally. By creating tailored training programmes, companies can develop a workforce that not only meets the technical requirements of the job but also aligns with the company’s culture and strategic goals.

This approach offers several benefits. Firstly, it reduces reliance on external hires, which can be costly and time-consuming. Secondly, it encourages a culture of continuous learning and development, leading to higher employee satisfaction and retention. In conversations with companies managing projects, the message is consistent: employees who see a clear path for advancement within the company are more likely to stay and invest in their roles, contributing to a more stable and knowledgeable workforce.

The Importance of Structured Skills Pathways

The lack of a clearly defined skills development pathway has historically led many project controls professionals to transition into project management roles, where those pathways are well established. However, there is now growing recognition of the importance of structured training programmes specifically for project controls. As custodians of the National Occupations Standards for project controls, the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) has been instrumental in developing courses and qualifications that provide a comprehensive learning journey from basic awareness to advanced expertise.

As an ECITB Approved Provider, 20/20 offers a range of qualifications, including the Introduction to Project Controls, Certificate in Project Controls Planning and Scheduling, Commercial Awareness, and Document Control courses. For those wishing to demonstrate their knowledge and skills, individuals can utilise the widely recognised ECITB qualifications, including the Level 6 Diploma in Advanced Project Controls Practice & Techniques. This programme provides senior-level professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to lead in project controls, covering areas such as risk management, cost estimation, and performance optimisation. Similarly, our Project Controls Professional apprenticeship programme, set to commence in September 2024, is designed to equip practitioners with advanced skills necessary for operating at a senior level.

Organisations such as the Association of Cost Engineers (ACOSTE) is dedicated to supporting skills development pathways for professionals in cost engineering, project controls, and risk management. Through its structured programmes, ACOSTE provides its network with tailored training, mentoring, and continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities. As an Engineering Council affiliate, ACOSTE also helps professionals achieve registration as Chartered Engineers and other designations, while certifying training providers and offering nationally recognised qualifications to support career advancement. ACOSTE’s commitment to skills growth ensures that professionals are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of their industries.

Structured pathways are crucial for attracting new talent to the field and providing clear career progression opportunities as they move through their careers. They also help retain those already working in project controls by giving professionals recognition for their skills and providing a roadmap to achieving chartered status, enhancing the credibility and appeal of project controls as a career choice.

The Benefits of Investing in Project Controls Training

Investing in training for project controls professionals brings numerous benefits to both individuals and organisations. Trained professionals can significantly improve project outcomes by applying best practices in planning, scheduling, risk estimating, and cost control. This leads to more efficient project execution and higher satisfaction for clients and stakeholders. We also see that providing training in risk management equips professionals with the skills to identify and mitigate potential issues before they become critical. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of costly delays and disruptions. Similarly, having commercial awareness and knowledge of cost estimation and control methods enables professionals to manage budgets more effectively, ensuring financial discipline and preventing overruns.

For individuals, obtaining recognised qualifications in project controls can open doors to advanced roles and increased responsibilities. This not only enhances job security but also offers opportunities for personal and professional growth. It is no surprise that companies that invest in training and development are more attractive to potential hires. Moreover, providing clear career development opportunities helps retain existing talent, reducing turnover and associated costs.

Building a Skilled Workforce for the Future

The importance of training project controls professionals cannot be overstated. As projects become more complex, the need for skilled professionals will only increase. By investing in comprehensive training programmes, companies can build a resilient workforce capable of delivering successful projects, managing risks, and optimising costs.

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