You’re a civil engineer looking to switch to project management. What are your first steps?

I think in addition to assessing your skills, you need to assess your personal desires and interests. As an organizational leader, you are often asked for guidance in deciding whether to focus on a technical or management career path. Many engineers are very focused on the details of their technical activity and do not have the interest in dealing with the human aspects of management such as conflicting priorities, the need to manage the financial aspects of a project, or the pressure associated with meeting client expectations. Skills are part of the equation but only one part of many considerations.

I believe certification is desirable because it demonstrates an individual has the initiative to go through the complex learning process of how to manage a project/program. PMI was a good source of educational materials.

Initially, I was uncertain about choosing between a career in design or project management. However, this confusion was resolved after completing an internship where I had the opportunity to delve into the project management side of construction. Based on this experience, I can say that gaining practical experience is crucial for understanding and smoothly transitioning into a project management role.

Choose the right track, get out there, gain some valuable experience and hit the target! In addition gain certifications from a renowned platforms.

On the Job Training is the best teacher for anyone regardless of being on a management or technical career track. Working on increasingly complex projects as a manager provides exposure to the multiple interfaces of client management, people management, financial management and conflict management. There is nothing like the pressure of potential failure to motivate and educate a promising manager.

Resumes should always be tailored to whatever your goals are. If you want to move on become exposed to more complex projects, documenting your increasing experience in your resume is needed.

The need of leadership to understand the interests and goals of individuals in their organizations is paramount in creating a diverse and strong organization. This requires development of equally rewarding management and technical career paths that include both recognition and financial security.