Which sectors use the PMP® Credential?

A quick glance at LinkedIn’s employment listings, indicates that there are currently 114,000 Project Manager vacancies worldwide - demonstrating the need for proficient Project Managers across a myriad of sectors. A range of sectors utilise the Framework, including:

Construction Sector

Project Management Professional (PMP)® credential is a much sought-after certification for Project Managers to have in the construction sector due to demonstrating proficiency regarding managing large, complex, and high-risk projects. Small mistakes in the construction industry can have substantial negative repercussions, hence Project Managers are entrusted with the responsibility to ensure that projects are punctual, of quality, on budget, and that construction projects meet the safety requirements. The exponential growth of the IT industry, from its nascent origination, has meant that Project Managers are now central to success and held responsible for all operational functioning - PMP® credential holders have the skills and resources to be prosperous Project Managers. The application of "The Project Management Body of Knowledge Guidance" (PMBOK® Guide) is relevant to construction projects, however, Project Managers should expect to tailor the PMBOK® Guide framework to their niche speciality and develop their deliverable techniques - different types of projects require different project management approaches.

Health Sector

The health sector is complex, with a range of projects simultaneously running at any singular time, hence the perpetual requirement for astute and accomplished Project Managers. The job roles and niche sector vary depending on the country in which you are aspiring to work in, however, there is a requirement to provide clients, stakeholders, and patients a good return on investment and value for money. Projects within this sector are often given a set and immovable budget, and therefore require Project Managers with a key eye for detail and consideration for optimal resource utilisation. The NHS is the UK's largest employer, and health sector employment within the US accounts for 12.6% of all employment - indicating the continual requirement for Project Managers. Given the sheer number of stakeholders contributing to health projects, communication and satisfaction are central to functioning - Project Managers within this sector should expect to have a varied workload, due to the requirement to present products, information, services, and reports to a variety of audiences.

IT Sector

The Information Technology (IT) sector is rapidly becoming proliferated with large scale projects due to the requirement to meet customer demands, and given that the IT industry is the fastest growing sector of the decade. The IT industry relies heavily on projects being managed suitably, in order to manage the various constituents that contribute to a project - in terms of collaborating the skills that individuals possess. Senior PMP® Certified Project Managers within the IT industry can expect a salary of £95,000/$120,000 - making this one of the most lucrative sectors for a Project Manager to specialise in. IT projects are often conducted on a contractual basis, hence the future of the business is dependent on the reputation of client services and a project’s success - incrementally elevating the requirement for meticulously planned projects.

Oil and Gas Sector

The Oil and Gas industry is dependent on innovation, efficient supply chains, fast production, and of late, the development of eco-friendly/green energy. The fast paced environment and negotiation of extensive budgets make the oil and gas sector competitive but rewarding for Project Managers. The project management certification demonstrates to Oil and Gas employers that an individual is proficient, professional, and trustworthy with regard to managing resources for large scale and budget-consuming projects and is often a prerequisite for individuals looking to attain a managing position within this competitive sector. The Oil and Gas industry is the most lucrative sector for a Project Manager to work in - senior candidates can expect to earn £120,000/$156000 annually.

*Information obtained from Payscale - correct as of 24th July 2017

The Knowledge Academy is a Authorized Training Partner (ATP) and we are approved to provide PDUs by the Project Management Institute (PMI)®. ATP Licensed Provider. ID: 3444.