Increased self-confidence at work after project management course

Registration: Project Management 1

"If you are motivated and take the step to sign up, this study will go by itself. It's easy to combine with work, and the value you're left with is great," says Olesen.

NITO member Jan Kristian Olesen works as a project engineer at Glencore Nikkelverk, with responsibility for process control, automation and measurement technology. Although he is already responsible for projects at work, he wanted to strengthen his project competence through the project management 1 programme – a collaboration between NITO and OsloMet.

A real boost

"I work with project management on a daily basis, but wanted to become more confident in the role and get professional replenishment. The programme gave me both structure and new perspectives. It was simply a real boost," says Olesen.

The programme runs over one semester and gives 10 credits. It starts with a physical gathering, followed by digital gatherings, and ends with an exam paper based on a project from their own job.

"It was easy to follow the progress. We worked on assignments that build on each other, and much of what we submitted along the way was used in the exam submission. It provides a good rhythm and flow in learning.

Convenient, flexible and engaging

Olesen took the study in addition to 100 percent work and life with young children – and found it to be fully manageable:

"I read the syllabus about 5-7 hours a week and listened to the podcasts while I trained. There was a little more reading ahead of the submissions and exams. For my part, Sunday morning was a good time for subjects," he says.

In addition to the subject matter, he highlights the social and professional interaction as valuable:

"We were about 20 participants in the class, from people in their mid-30s to 50s. It was exciting to work in groups with people from different industries and experiences. You get an insight into how others work with project management – and it gives you a new perspective on your own everyday life.

Increased job security

The programme is practice-based and provides concrete tools for project implementation. For Olesen, it has had a lasting effect:

"I've become more confident in the role. Many of the challenges we discussed, such as uncertain expectation management and changing frameworks, are universal in project work. It gives confidence to know that you are not alone – and at the same time learn techniques to deal with it.

Among other things, he mentions the importance of clear stakeholder analysis and balancing expectations for time, cost and quality.

Just sign up

After completing his studies, he is clear about the recommendation:

"It's a job to do, but it's easier than you think. Once you get started, it becomes both rewarding and fun. I have spoken to many of the other participants – and the feedback is generally positive. You are left with a professional security that you notice in everyday life.