In an era marked by economic uncertainty, rapid digital transformation, and a growing urgency for sustainable development, the world faces a critical shortage of skilled project professionals. According to the Global Project Management Talent Gap Report released by the Project Management Institute (PMI), nearly 30 million new project professionals will be needed globally by 2035 to meet rising demand. For students and emerging professionals, this presents a unique and timely opportunity to prepare for high-impact, future-focused careers.

The numbers are striking. There are currently about 40 million project professionals in the workforce—more than the global total of software developers or nurses. Yet, with demand rising sharply across multiple sectors and regions, that number will not be enough. The report highlights that fast-growing economies such as South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and China are experiencing especially high demand for project talent due to major infrastructure development, industrial expansion, and digital innovation.

Meanwhile, in mature economies like North America and Europe, the challenge is different: experienced project managers are retiring, and labor supply is not keeping up. Organizations in these regions are struggling to modernize their delivery models and fill the gaps with capable professionals who can meet today’s dynamic business needs.

The sectors under the greatest pressure include construction, healthcare, IT services, and manufacturing, where the demand for project professionals is projected to increase by as much as 66 percent. This dramatic rise reinforces the idea that project managers are not only operational contributors but strategic leaders, essential to turning organizational goals into tangible results.

PMI President and CEO Pierre Le Manh emphasized that “change only happens through successful projects,” positioning project professionals as central agents in navigating global complexity and delivering measurable outcomes. This message is echoed by the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report, which ranks project managers among the fastest-growing roles globally through 2030.

For students currently studying business, technology, healthcare, engineering, or public administration, this growing talent gap is not just a workforce trend—it’s a career opportunity. Employers are seeking individuals who can lead cross-functional teams, manage risk, allocate resources, and deliver projects that support organizational transformation.

To help students prepare for and capitalize on this growing demand, here are five concrete action steps to consider:

1. Pursue Industry Certifications

Earning a certification like the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) can demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the profession. It serves as a strong differentiator on your résumé, especially for entry-level candidates.

2. Develop Core Skills

Focus on building foundational competencies such as scope and risk management, stakeholder communication, budgeting, and scheduling. These can be strengthened through academic coursework, simulations, and student projects.

3. Seek Practical Experience

Get involved in internships, volunteer roles, or campus leadership positions that involve organizing events, managing timelines, and coordinating teams. These hands-on experiences help translate theory into practice.

4. Learn Digital Tools

Familiarize yourself with project management software like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or Trello. Proficiency with these tools is increasingly expected in today’s hybrid work environments.

5. Join Professional Networks

Become a student member of PMI or your local chapter. Attend networking events, webinars, and conferences to learn from practicing professionals and explore career pathways in project management.

The future is being built through projects, and students today have a unique opportunity to become tomorrow’s leaders in this space. The project management profession is evolving from a support function to a central force in organizational strategy and innovation. Those who take the initiative to upskill, earn credentials, and connect with the global project community will be exceptionally well positioned to thrive.

In closing, the global demand for project talent is not just a trend—it is a transformative shift. It presents a promising future for those who are ready to lead, to deliver, and to make an impact. Now is the time to invest in your development and embrace the opportunity to shape the world, one project at a time.

Simon Cleveland, Ph.D., Ed.D., PMP, CSM, CSPO, ITIL, SSBB
Professor, Project Management
Course Lead, GM591-GM594
School of Business & Information Technology