Cecilia Baker says she was following her dream to work in project management when she enrolled in the full time Project Management Diploma at PACE. She is now employed with the Province of Manitoba’s Department of Aboriginal and Northern Affairs, helping to coordinate projects that require consultation with First Nations communities.

“If you have the passion, drive, and the characteristics it takes to be a project manager, this is a great programe,” says Cecilia, who notes that prospective students should be prepared for a challenge that provides them with an in-depth study of risk management, communication, planning and facilitation.

Cecilia came to PACE having accomplished much in her career already, including eight years working at Manitoba Hydro and a secondment to the United Way in 2009 that helped her recognize she had leadership abilities she wanted to put to use.

“So I just took the leap,” she says, explaining that as a single parent she found that a full-time course load made more sense than trying to balance work with part-time studies. “PACE gave me the education and skills to become a project manager, to be able to work in a team environment, and to fine tune my leadership skills.”

Cecilia chose PACE because of its reputation and relationship with UWinnipeg, and says she valued the knowledgeable, informative, and helpful instructors at PACE, as well as the cultural diversity among her classmates.

“I recommend PACE if you want to challenge yourself and gain skills and knowledge which you can apply to your work and life,” says Cecilia. “As a project manager, your ability to build strong working relationships and communicate is key.”