Project Management Career Choice: Your Ultimate Guide for 2024

A quick Google search of the phrase “project management career choice” will likely turn up thousands of results. However, finding comprehensive information about this high-demand profession can be challenging, with bits and pieces scattered across various sources. To remedy this, we’ve created this updated guide for 2024, providing everything you need to know about a project management career—from benefits to essential skills and how to get started.

Table of Contents

• 1. 6 Benefits of a Project Management Career Choice
• 2. Which Field is Best in Project Management?
• 3. How to Become a Project Manager
• 4. How Pathstream Can Help You Jumpstart Your Career

6 Benefits of a Project Management Career Choice

1. High Demand

The demand for project managers remains strong, with PMI estimating the need for 25 million new project management professionals by 2030 (PMI Report). Industries across the globe, including IT, healthcare, and construction, are increasing their reliance on these professionals to drive efficiency and innovation. In 2024, many organizations are also seeking project managers adept in managing change and digital transformation (Zoetalentsolutions).

2. Competitive Salaries

Project management offers highly competitive salaries. In 2024, the median salary for project managers in the U.S. is around $120,000, with certifications like PMP increasing salaries by up to 32% (ProjectManager.com). Top project managers in large organizations can earn additional bonuses for completing projects ahead of schedule and under budget.

3. Remote and Hybrid Work Opportunities

The rise of digital collaboration tools has made remote and hybrid work options more accessible. Project managers in 2024 often lead distributed teams across time zones, helping businesses save time and money while offering better work-life balance (PMConnection).

4. The Opportunity to Lead and Collaborate

Project managers work closely with teams, and fostering collaboration, resolving conflicts, and guiding projects to success are some of the most rewarding aspects of the job. Leadership skills, including emotional intelligence and adaptability, are in higher demand in 2024 as organizations value these competencies.

5. Enhanced Organizational and Technical Skills

Managing multiple projects requires impeccable organizational skills. In 2024, project managers are expected to blend technical and soft skills effectively, using project management software and analytics tools to monitor resources and progress while maintaining strong interpersonal communication.

6. Entry into a Growing Industry

Project management skills are in demand across a wide range of industries beyond traditional IT and engineering. In 2024, fields like finance, healthcare, advertising, and SaaS are also growing rapidly. Professionals with adaptable skills and knowledge of industry-specific methodologies have significant career growth potential.

Which Field is Best in Project Management?

Choosing the right field for project management depends on your interests and background. Project managers are needed in virtually every sector:

• Finance: Project managers in this sector handle organizational risks, strategy development, and oversee financial initiatives.
• Construction & Engineering: Here, project managers coordinate large-scale developments, working with architects and engineers to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Healthcare: This field has seen rapid growth in project management demand due to the complexity of healthcare systems and the rise of digital health innovations.
• IT & SaaS: These fields rely heavily on project managers to oversee cross-functional teams and focus on product development and deployment.

No matter the industry, the core responsibilities remain consistent: planning, managing resources, and communicating with stakeholders to ensure project success.

How to Become a Project Manager

In the past, a degree in a relevant field was required for project management roles. However, in 2024, more streamlined paths are available. Certificate programs, such as the Asana Project Management Certificate from Pathstream, offer comprehensive training in methodologies like Agile and Waterfall, in as little as six months (PMI Learning).

Along with certifications, gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level roles like project coordinator can build the foundation for future career growth.

How Pathstream Can Help You Jumpstart Your Career

If you’re ready to take the next step toward becoming a project manager, Pathstream’s Asana Project Management Certificate is designed to help you succeed. Our online program is flexible, allowing you to gain the necessary skills while managing your current responsibilities. Additionally, we offer programs in Salesforce Administration and Tableau Data Analytics to further expand your career options.

Check if your employer partners with Pathstream to cover the cost of the program, and start your journey in the growing field of project management today!