Author Chirag Shah, Cofounder of Project Connect Group UK
Project Connect Group wasn’t born in a boardroom – it began in lockdown, during the pandemic, when professionals across the globe faced unprecedented isolation.
Recognising this gap, Val Matthews initiated the Project Connect Group concept in Melbourne. Inspired by Val’s vision, Dale Foong and Chirag Shah introduced PCG to the UK, determined to bridge the void in the Projects community. If you work on Projects, this is for you!
However their fledgeling community wasn’t just about connecting people; it was about offering support, mentorship, and camaraderie when it mattered most.
Fast forward to today, and Project Connect Group stands as a testament to the power of community, driven by the collective ethos of breaking down barriers and empowering each other.
In an expanding digitally remote world, genuine, face-to-face connections have never mattered more. PCG understands this need, and was founded out of the necessity to buck the trend of virtual coffees and online exchanges, and create opportunities for real-time, real life face to face connections. It is one reason why their events have quickly become a cornerstone for professionals who seek real conversations, mentorship, and meaningful industry connections.
The founders of PCG, set out three core principles in their vision;
- Pay it forward
- Find a mentor
- Breaking pay walls
And since those early get-togethers the events have transformed networking from a transactional exercise into a community-driven engaging movement.
If you’re in Projects – be it early in your career, a seasoned professional, or an industry leader – PCG has create an essential and much needed community space. Unrestricted by large membership fees or the need to comply with stuffy entry qualification. Instead the events cater to everyone, offering opportunities to gain invaluable industry insight and find mentors and allies who have walked the path that their members are on. Access networking without the constraints of paywalls or membership exclusivity.
Attendees regularly share transformative stories from PCG events.
Carienne Jordaan – Associate Director – Turner and Townsend
“I attended the Project controls summer social in June 2024 and I cannot recommend it highly enough! Being relatively new to the UK it gave me the opportunity to meet and network with like minded individuals all interested in the exciting field of project controls. The evening consisted of an informative panel discussion and socialising afterwards. I will definitely be attending the next event.”
Kiran Mistry – Project Controls Director – AtkinsRéalis
“I absolutely love attending PCG events! They excel at bringing together professionals from all levels in Project Controls, from early careers to Industry leaders. These events provide a fantastic opportunity for everyone to engage and connect across the industry in a relaxed, informal setting. Throughout the year, we get to discuss our successes and challenges, and dive into topical discussions. It’s truly a valuable experience!”
Simply put, PCG is where industry growth, personal development, and authentic connections intersect.
Upcoming Events You Can’t Afford to Miss
• 25th September – Bristol, Dirty Martini: Dive into an evening of vibrant conversation, insightful panel discussions, and networking that leaves lasting impressions.
• 9th October – London, Sway Bar (RPC Conference After-Party): Join industry peers and thought leaders for a memorable evening to close the RPC Conference, offering a relaxed yet highly effective environment to discuss industry trends and personal growth.
These events are more than just gatherings – they’re pivotal experiences that foster career-defining connections.
But the Team Need Your Support – Join Our Community
PCG thrives because of the community it serves.
We’re community-led, not-for-profit, and our events remain free to ensure accessibility for all. But to sustain this mission, we need your involvement:
• Become an Ambassador: Represent PCG within your network. Share our message, amplify our events, and encourage peers to join.
• Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: Sponsors are our lifeline, making each event memorable and impactful. Sponsoring PCG isn’t just beneficial for brand visibility – it positions your company as an advocate for community and professional development.
Thank you to RPCuk, Kaleido, Cooper Moss Rutland, Movar, nPlan, Nodes and Links and PACE Global.
Stay Connected
Follow our LinkedIn page to stay informed about events, engage with the community, and become part of a movement redefining professional networking.https://www.linkedin.com/company/project-connect-group
Together, let’s pay it forward, find mentors, and break down barriers. Project Connect Group isn’t just another networking event – it’s your community, and it matters now more than ever.
