Delivering on career advancement with applied project management

Effective project managers are strong leaders, great communicators and creative problem-solvers — plus, they’re in demand in a variety of career paths, including construction, energy, healthcare, information technology, marketing and more.

Through SAIT’s Applied Project Management Certificate of Achievement students explore the key areas of project management, including human resources, communications, cost, quality control, procurement and risk management.

“Having the education and professional designation has given me the flexibility to transfer and apply my knowledge and skillset in various industries with confidence,” says Ophelia Ugwu, an event specialist with SMART Technologies who recently completed the program.

Learn more about Ophelia’s experience below, then explore what’s possible in project management through SAIT’s Centre for Continuing Education and Professional Studies.

What drew you to project management as a career?

During my first professional job, I worked in a projectized environment — one that focuses on projects. Being able to see parts of a system that were created on a timeline intrigued me. What I found most appealing about project management is how various departments ran different projects simultaneously to create or enhance a system.

Why did you feel it was important to formalize your skillset?

Firstly, I wanted to have a better understanding of what projects were, in the technical sense, and the foundational principles of projects.

Secondly, without having the engineering or technical skills of the industry I worked in, for me, having the business acumen of coordinating and managing projects was imperative.

What made you choose SAIT?

SAIT is well recognized in Calgary. Also, SAIT offers flexible learning, which allowed me take the program while working full-time. I was also able to complete the certification at my own time without always having to be in a classroom environment.

How has the knowledge you gained from the program helped you professionally?

It has allowed me to grow in various industries, understanding the different needs and requirements of my clients, while applying the basic principles of project management.

When I was finally able to relate some of the principles from the program that I never really understood in the workplace — those were incredible light-bulb moments for me.

What advice would you give to someone considering building their skill set by going to school?

Just do it — you have nothing to lose in the long run. Knowledge is never wasted, it is constantly applied and re-applied in more ways than you can imagine.

Become a "pro" in project management

SAIT is a Global Registered Educational Provider of project management training approved by the Project Management Institute (PMI®). Our program is delivered in a flexible way to meet the needs of today's busy professionals.

Build your individual skill set with courses from SAIT's Centre for Continuing Education and Professional Studies.

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