Association for Project Management‘s A Foot in the Door, held on 4 November 2025, offered students, graduates and career changers a clear pathway into project management, combining practical advice with direct access to employers, mentors and professional resources.
Designed for those exploring the profession or seeking a structured route into corporate project roles, the event provided insight into career pathways, employability skills and the benefits of professional development. Attendees received tools including CV templates, career guides and access to APM membership discounts.
By connecting aspiring project managers with organisations, educators and experienced practitioners, the event aimed to build a more diverse pipeline of future project professionals who align with APM’s values and professional standards.
Described as a unique opportunity for anyone beginning or pivoting into project management, the programme offered workshops, expert talks and networking intended to bridge the gap between aspiration and employment. Delegates gained practical advice on entering the profession, understanding qualifications and securing early-career roles.
Benefits highlighted included:
- A clearer understanding of entry routes into project management
- Access to tools such as tailored CV templates and career planning resources
- Discounts on APM membership and development opportunities
- Chances to build connections with employers, mentors and experienced professionals
The event was aimed at:
- Students and recent graduates
- Career changers moving into project management
- Early-career professionals seeking corporate PM roles
- Underrepresented or disadvantaged groups requiring tailored support
- Educators and career services teams
By the close of the day, participants left with practical resources, stronger professional connections and greater confidence in pursuing project management opportunities.
The slides on Slideshare are now available in our APM resources area and also embedded below for reference.
Speakers
Michael Jackson – Team Coach/Delivery Lead, NatWest Group
Michael is a human-centred project management professional with more than ten years’ experience delivering people-focused and technology-led projects across multiple sectors. Known for mentoring and personal development, he has supported many early-career professionals seeking their first project role. His current work includes leading tokenisation and card-related initiatives at NatWest.
Obinna Vincent Okonkwo – Digital Project Manager, ENABLE Scotland
Obinna holds an MBA in Strategic Project Management and has delivered complex projects across industries including oil and gas, technology, logistics, real estate and hospitality. At ENABLE Scotland, he specialises in digital innovation using big data, AI and automation. He is also COO of Vesicomm Technologies, an EdTech start-up leveraging AI for student progression and skills development.
Edward Enejoh – Project Manager/Business Analyst, University of Edinburgh
Edward works in the University of Edinburgh’s Information Services Group, delivering digital projects that support teaching, learning and research. With over a decade of experience, he is committed to helping professionals move into project management and co-leads the APM Scotland Education Outreach Group. He also writes Future PM and is undertaking doctoral research into how AI can enhance project delivery.
