Project professionals are in high demand, but how does someone break into the profession? In a joint discussion, guests share how they started their project management careers—one pursuing it from the start, the other taking the role unexpectedly—the top skills new project managers should develop and how organizations can help project leaders upskill. Plus, they share how certifications from PMI have given their career development a boost. Our guests include Johanna Kolerski-Bezerra, PMP, project manager for forecasting, Euromonitor International, London; and Alisa Vovk, CAPM, consultant in HR global strategic initiatives, CGI, Toronto.  Key themes [02:06] Two project leaders share their career journeys [07:51] Four skills new project managers should focus on developing [09:28] Ways organizations can help project professionals upskill [11:53] Never had a project management role? Look for workshops, certifications and volunteer opportunities [14:41] How the PMI community and certifications from PMI have helped two project leaders’ careers [18:05] Looking to break into project management? Learn fast, stay inquisitive and be patient