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Project Management: the skill you didn't know you needed

By Career Corner

Career development and experiential learning, University of Ottawa

project management stock
How many times, at the end of a semester, have we scrambled to complete a last-minute assignment and save our grade? While these stressful moments push us to coordinate and plan under pressure, they are only the beginning of developing true project management skills. In the professional world, applying these skills requires deeper learning and deliberate practice.

More than just another skill

Project management is more than just another skill: it is a true superpower for young professionals. The ability to plan, organize, and coordinate projects transforms complex challenges into tangible results. Setting clear objectives, assigning responsibilities, anticipating obstacles, and maintaining effective communication are the hallmarks of an employee who can make an impact from day one.

Beyond the academic advantages, project management is a skill highly valued by employers. According to the Project Management Institute (PMI), certified project management professionals earn, on average, 20% more than their non-certified peers. Employers don鈥檛 just see a task manager, they see a strategic professional capable of guiding a team, making informed decisions, and delivering measurable results.

This competency goes far beyond technical expertise. It fosters transferable qualities such as problem-solving, collaboration, critical thinking, and decision-making under pressure. These assets are indispensable in dynamic environments where priorities constantly shift. Whether it鈥檚 managing a budget, aligning stakeholders, or coordinating multiple teams, graduates with strong project management skills can transform chaos into efficiency, no matter their field.

Mastering project management before entering the job market sends a powerful message to employers: you are organized, proactive, and ready to take on ambitious initiatives. In today鈥檚 professional landscape, where opportunities must often be created, the ability to plan, execute, and oversee projects can be your ticket to success. More than just a skill, it鈥檚 your long-term superpower to stand out and make a difference.

Applied Workshop Series

Aside from project management, there are other specific skills 鈥 like professional communications, data literacy and digital skills 鈥 that today鈥檚 employers consider important assets. With the Career Corner鈥檚 Applied Workshop Series, taught by expert instructors, you can acquire those skills to stand out in the job market.

Register for the applied workshop on project management, and check the full workshop schedule so you can get ready for the world of work.