Building Confidence and Career Readiness: Paola Romero’s Project Management Journey at PACE

Paola Romero joined The University of Winnipeg PACE to pursue the Project Management program with a goal of strengthening her professional skills and advancing her career. What she found at PACE was more than an academic experience—it was a journey that built her confidence and prepared her for success in the Canadian workplace.

One of the most impactful aspects of Paola’s experience was learning from industry professionals. Her instructors brought real-world knowledge into every class, helping her understand how to apply theoretical concepts in practical work environments. This approach made learning engaging, relevant, and directly aligned with the expectations of today’s workforce.

Beyond the classroom, Paola benefited from the strong support systems at PACE. Writing tutors helped her refine her communication skills, while career services provided guidance on building a professional resume, crafting an effective elevator pitch, and improving presentation abilities. These resources played a key role in helping her align her experience with Canadian market standards and present herself with confidence.

Paola also valued the diverse and collaborative learning environment at PACE. Working alongside classmates from different countries allowed her to gain new perspectives, strengthen her teamwork skills, and better understand cross-cultural communication—an essential skill in project management. She further expanded her professional network by participating in industry events and engaging with the Project Management Institute, which supported her goal of becoming a certified professional.

Today, Paola works as a Safety & Health Officer with the Government of Manitoba, applying the skills and knowledge she developed at PACE in a meaningful and impactful role. She credits her success to the practical learning, supportive community, and strong professional connections she built during her time at PACE.

Her advice to future students is to take full advantage of every resource available, stay proactive, and build meaningful connections. For Paola, PACE was not just about gaining knowledge—it was about discovering her potential and building a path forward.

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Paola Romero 
Safety & Health Officer
Government of Manitoba