Expanding opportunities for career advancement in project management

 

Daniel Chong

Alumni of MAE/2023
Business Development Manager at Pixel Automation Pte Ltd
Completed FlexiMasters in Project Management

Describe the factors that led you to choose PaCE@NTU.

NTU has been a highly reputable educational institution with globally recognized accreditation. The FlexiMasters offered by PaCE@NTU have demonstrated the most needed skillsets demanded by the industry, offering a degree that holds significant value and is recognised by employers and industries alike.


How was your learning experience with this FlexiMasters?

This FlexiMasters is designed to offer learners greater flexibility in terms of academic scheduling and course delivery. It enables them to balance their academic development with other commitments, such as work or family responsibilities.

The certificate is planned and executed in a systematic and modular structure, making it easier for learners to focus on specific topics or skills and complete them one at a time. Additionally, the curriculum is customised to address industry needs, allowing learners to learn at their own pace. The hybrid learning model combines classroom settings with remote access to course materials and lectures, providing learners with the flexibility to manage their time and cope with daily routines.


Which aspect of this FlexiMasters did you like the most?

The design of FlexiMasters, which highly encourages learners to take a step back and engage in self-reflection on their daily approach to addressing industry challenges, has been the most significant and favorable aspect of my journey with FlexiMasters. Tertiary education should provide a platform for nurturing critical thinking and encouraging continuous improvement, and I believe this certificate has exceeded my initial expectations in that regard.

The access to an intuitive and interactive learning platform that facilitates engagement with course materials, assignments, and communication with instructors and peers has also been the biggest motivation for me to complete this wonderful learning journey.


What were the challenges you faced when trying to complete this FlexiMasters?

Time management has always been a key aspect, especially when taking multiple modules simultaneously at the same time. The flexibility of this certificate can be both advantageous and challenging. Learners would need to manage their time effectively to ensure they dedicate sufficient hours to their studies while also juggling other personal and professional commitments. Additionally, with the freedom to set their own study pace, learners need to stay motivated and disciplined to consistently engage with course materials and complete assignments on time.


Has this FlexiMasters benefitted you in your career development?

I would say that for individuals pursuing a FlexiMasters or any other advanced degree, the benefits to their career development may not be direct, but they are significant from a comprehensive overall perspective.

Firstly, enhanced knowledge and skills: This FlexiMasters has provided in-depth knowledge and specialised skills in project management. This expertise can make individuals more competitive in the job market and open up opportunities for career advancement.

Secondly, potential career opportunities: Having a Master's degree qualifies individuals for higher-level positions and leadership roles within their industry. While it may not guarantee an immediate opportunity, it ensures that individuals are well-prepared and positioned when opportunity knocks on the door!

Lastly, networking within the same cluster of Project Managers in a cross-industry setting has been a great experience. This FlexiMasters encourages collaboration and networking among learners, instructors, and industry professionals. Building these connections can lead to valuable career contacts and opportunities.


How did you apply what you've learnt from this FlexiMasters?

Think and communicate systematically from a broader perspective when solving more complex problems. As a Project Manager, effective planning and communication are crucial. If we fail to plan, we plan to fail. This has been my daily motto.

This FlexiMasters has enabled me to reflect on myself and learn from cross-industry peers and academic professionals about how to address specific problems more effectively and explore alternative approaches.


Do you think lifelong learning is important? Please share your thoughts about it.

Yes, learning never stops, and it helps us unlock the next tier of personal development, whether it's in mindset, career, or family. The benefits can be intangible, indirect, and impromptu as it always prepares one to think and execute things differently, in a better way.