Robin studied BA(Hons) Primary Education at the University of Brighton. He now works as an education outreach manager for the Association for Project Management (APM)
Can you describe your role in education outreach?
I promote working in projects to the next generation of project professionals. I speak at events, connect universities and schools with professionals, create resources and deliver workshops, all aiming to help teach project skills and help people get into the profession.
Why did you decide on a career in this field?
My career has been quite varied but I decided to apply for my current role because the job fit my interests and previous work experience, lining up the skills I've gained through:
building connections
knowledge of project management
public speaking
working in schools and universities.
How did you get your job?
I had to do a written application, then had two interviews, one conversational, and one a presentation showcasing my public speaking skills.
The interviewers later told me they selected me over other candidates because of my presentation skills, how I explained my previous experiences and the fresh ideas I brought to the interview.
What kind of tasks do you complete on a typical day?
I send a lot of emails. I talk to a lot of people who work in education to see how we can work together. This can involve going to a school or university to deliver presentations, attending conferences for the education sector, and contributing to careers fairs to talk to people about project management as a career option.
Recently I've also been doing some media engagement work, contributing to blogs, news articles and podcasts, which is something I really enjoy.
What do you enjoy about your role?
I enjoy presenting to people, talking to people and running activity workshops or attending events. An important part of the role is thinking up new and creative ways to collaborate with educators and spark interest among young people. I'm always looking at how my company can tap into what's popular, but it has to be genuine and authentic too.
What are the challenges?
Project management isn't a profession that a lot of people have heard of, so I have to find ways to be engaging and interesting, but always informative and genuine.
Plus, the needs of my audiences are very different. One day I might be speaking to teenagers who haven't thought about their career yet. The next I could be speaking with graduates who have finished their degree and have skills that are well suited to project management. Another day, it might be university lecturers, or training providers. So I always have to be mindful of what people need to know.
Also, as someone with ADHD I sometimes struggle with organisation. I have a lot of different opportunities that I am trying to keep track of, so it's difficult to keep on top of everything.
What three qualities are important for a career in education outreach?
Confidence - public speaking is a big part of the role, so you have to have the confidence to address a room full of strangers.
Genuine passion to help people find a career - at the end of the day it's what my role is all about.
Relationship building - being able to connect with people is really important to understanding how you can help them.
Can you debunk a myth about working in your field?
For education outreach, there's a myth that young people won't be interested in what you have to say. I think young people offer really interesting perspectives on topics and, in my experience, really want to know more about the world of work.
As far as project management goes, people think project managers just criticise other people's work or tick things off a list. Really, they're out there helping people solve their problems and keep projects on track.
What are your career ambitions?
I hope I can make a difference. if I can help people work out what they want to do with their careers, I'll be happy.
What advice can you give to other aspiring to work in your field?
Practice your networking skills, learn to listen, take on other people's perspectives and help them overcome their barriers.
