The Project Controls profession continues to evolve at pace. New technologies, increasingly complex programmes and growing demand across sectors such as defence, infrastructure, rail, energy and data centres are creating both opportunities and challenges for professionals and employers alike.

Yet one thing has become increasingly clear over the past year - the future of Project Controls will not be shaped by technology alone. It will be shaped by people.

Across the industry, there is growing momentum behind initiatives that bring professionals together, encourage knowledge sharing and create opportunities for meaningful conversations about the future of the profession.

Recent events hosted by Project Connect Group and the Controls & Skills Authority have demonstrated just how strong the appetite is for collaboration, learning and community-building within Project Controls.

Building a More Connected Profession

One of the most positive developments to emerge from this year's Controls & Skills Authority Conference & Awards was the launch of the Women in Project Controls Community of Practice.

Created directly in response to feedback from professionals across the industry, the initiative aims to provide a dedicated space where women working in Project Controls can connect, collaborate, share experiences and support one another throughout their careers.

The Community of Practice will be led by an experienced group of industry professionals including Steph Illingworth, Kiran Mistry, Lisa Silander and Kajal Rana.

The initiative represents something much bigger than a networking group. It reflects a growing recognition that diverse perspectives strengthen teams, improve decision-making and help create a more inclusive profession for future generations.

For employers facing ongoing skills shortages, fostering inclusive environments is no longer simply a cultural consideration - it is a talent attraction and retention strategy.

Creating opportunities for underrepresented groups to build networks and access support can have a significant impact on long-term career development and industry growth.

The Industry's AI Conversation Is Only Just Beginning

Another recurring theme across the Project Controls community is the increasing discussion around artificial intelligence.

Everywhere you look, AI is being positioned as the next major transformation for project delivery. Yet despite the headlines, many professionals are still asking practical questions:

What does AI actually mean for Project Controls?

Which activities can genuinely be improved through automation?

How will planning, cost management and risk management evolve over the next five years?

What skills should professionals be developing today?

These are exactly the types of discussions being explored at upcoming Project Connect Group events, including a networking evening in Dublin following the Primavera User Conference 2026.

The event's central theme - "Project Controls in the Age of AI: Hype or Reality?" - reflects a question that many organisations are currently trying to answer.

While AI undoubtedly presents exciting possibilities, most industry leaders recognise that successful project delivery will continue to rely heavily on human judgement, stakeholder management, critical thinking and experience.

Technology may change the tools we use, but it is unlikely to replace the need for skilled professionals who can interpret information, challenge assumptions and make informed decisions.

Why Face-to-Face Networking Still Matters

Despite the rise of digital platforms, webinars and online communities, in-person networking remains one of the most valuable professional development tools available.

Events such as Network Under The Network, taking place in London alongside nPlan's Summer AI Day, provide opportunities for professionals from different sectors and disciplines to connect in ways that are difficult to replicate online.

Whether someone works in planning, cost engineering, risk management, PMO or programme controls, there is significant value in hearing how others are approaching similar challenges.

Many of the best career opportunities, mentoring relationships and business partnerships begin with a simple conversation.

For professionals looking to develop their careers, networking should not be viewed as self-promotion. Instead, it should be seen as an opportunity to learn, contribute and build genuine relationships within the industry.

The strongest professional communities are built on generosity, knowledge-sharing and a willingness to help others succeed.

What We're Seeing in the Project Controls Recruitment Market

PACE will also be attending the PCG x nPlan Summer AI Day, where the focus will be on practical career advice, market insight and conversations around the future of Project Controls talent.

Several themes continue to emerge across recruitment discussions in 2026.

Demand Remains Strong in Key Sectors

Defence, nuclear, energy and data centre programmes continue to generate significant demand for experienced Project Controls professionals.

Many organisations are competing for the same talent pools, particularly in planning, risk management and integrated project controls functions.

Employers Are Looking Beyond Technical Skills

Technical capability remains essential, but hiring managers are increasingly assessing communication skills, stakeholder engagement and commercial awareness.

Professionals who can translate complex project data into meaningful insights continue to stand out in the market.

AI Awareness Is Becoming Increasingly Important

Employers are beginning to look for candidates who understand how emerging technologies may influence project delivery.

This does not mean becoming an AI expert overnight. Instead, professionals should be prepared to discuss how automation, predictive analytics and digital tools may support better decision-making.

Career Positioning Matters More Than Ever

A well-structured CV, clear project achievements and a strong professional network remain powerful differentiators.

Many highly capable professionals undersell their experience or fail to clearly communicate the value they bring to programmes.

As competition for specialist talent increases, candidates who can articulate their impact effectively often place themselves at a significant advantage.

A Community-First Approach

What makes initiatives like Project Connect Group particularly valuable is their commitment to putting community ahead of commercial interests.

The focus is not on sales pitches or paywalls. It is about creating spaces where professionals can learn from each other, discuss industry challenges and contribute to the future direction of Project Controls.

For an industry that is experiencing rapid change, this type of collaboration has never been more important.

Whether you are an experienced practitioner, a hiring manager, a graduate entering the profession or someone considering their next career move, engaging with the wider Project Controls community can provide opportunities that extend far beyond a single event.

The profession is strongest when people share knowledge, support one another and work collectively to raise standards.

As the Project Controls community continues to grow, the opportunity for individuals and organisations alike is simple: get involved, contribute and help move the profession forward together.