What prompted you to switch from a project controls role to a project management/execution role?

Seven years into my project controls career, I  realized I wanted a new challenge: to take on a more strategic role to oversee and manage construction projects. As a result, I joined the real estate team as a project lead in 2023. When the government approved the refurbishment project for the nuclear power plant in 2024, I took over the project to perform electrical infrastructure upgrades for the supporting buildings. With a compressed timeline, this multi-million-dollar project focuses on delivering critical electrical infrastructure enhancements to support refurbishment activities.

Tell me more about your current accountabilities as a project manager for such a challenging project!

Similar to my other projects, as a project manager, I am accountable for delivering the project scope safely, within budget, and on time. However, for strategic projects, the pressure is high on the team as we are working against an unmovable milestone, and any delay in project delivery can impact the overall refurbishment schedule! Managing these critical projects requires strategic planning, coordination, and proactive problem-solving to mitigate risks and keep everything on track.

How do you think your years of project controls experience prepared you for the challenges you face today as a project manager?

I would say project controls knowledge builds a strong foundation for a successful journey in project management and provides a clear vision of when and why corrective actions are required to address any deviation from the project baselines. My project controls experience has primarily focused on cost estimating, risk management, project management governance, and continuous improvement. My experience in cost estimating sharpened my analytical skills, which now helps me to interpret technical information to develop project estimates. My risk management experience has enabled me to identify, analyze, and mitigate project risks. My governance improvement and training expertise have given me a strong understanding of project excellence and PM best practices, offering guidelines throughout the project lifecycle.  These experiences gave me the technical foundation to be an effective project manager.

What are some of the most significant differences between being a project controls professional and a project manager?

The most significant difference is that, as a project manager, there is a lot more external stakeholder engagement.  When I worked as a project controls professional, most of my interactions were with the project team within the company. In my current role, I collaborate with contractors, vendors, and regulators who may have different business processes, cultures, and values. Managing these relationships while moving the project forward requires a different skill set. Additionally, I now bear more professional accountability for the project’s results because I am no longer just monitoring project performance; I solve problems and make decisions. While this added accountability can be daunting, it is also gratifying.

In the transition into the role of a project manager, what new skill set have you picked up that you find most valuable?

Contract management and procurement management, I would say, are the skills I’ve picked up that are a big part of my daily life.  I have the accountability to devise the contract strategy, draft contracts, administer and monitor progress against the contract, negotiate contract change orders, ensure the health and safety of contractors on site, etc. I tried to study the subject as soon as I got into the role, but it is something that you need to learn through experience and being in the field.  I consult with experienced project managers in certain situations to gain guidance and insights. To be a good project manager, you must be brave enough to fail, learn from your mistakes, get help, and aspire to succeed again. There is no shortcut; rather, it is hard work.

Was there someone in your personal and/or work life who inspired you in the role transition process?

Regarding my transition from project controls to project manager, my husband’s encouragement played a crucial role in helping me make this decision. This change would not have been possible without the support of my manager at the time, a female manager during my time in project controls, whose name is Rania McLarty. She supported my growth, provided constructive feedback, and constantly assured me of my value to the team. I am incredibly grateful to have had such inspirational female project control leaders, like Rania, in my career.

You are also an active AACE Women in Project Controls Committee member. How has AACE shaped your career?

To make a valuable contribution to the organization, I strive to keep my knowledge of project management tools and technologies up to date. AACE provided a forum to expand my knowledge, access available resources, and share my experiences. I also attend events and webinars to stay informed about global trends and industry best practices. I was first introduced to AACE by reading about their recommended practices for estimation. Then I learned about the AACE Women in Project Controls Committee, decided to join, and the rest was history! It is so rewarding to be a part of a group that aims to promote and celebrate the successes of women in project controls worldwide, while fostering valuable knowledge exchange and networking opportunities.

Can you share some words of inspiration with our AACE community that can help someone who may want to make a career transition like you did?

I have learned that growth happens when we push ourselves beyond our comfort zones and embrace challenges. In these moments, we uncover hidden strengths and realize our full potential. For anyone considering a career transition, trust in your ability to adapt and learn. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and stepping into the unknown can lead to incredible opportunities you never imagined.

About Simin Majd

Simin Majd is a project manager at Ontario Power Generation in Canada. She has a master’s degree in chemical engineering. She was born and raised in Iran and lives in Toronto with her husband and two teenage sons. She is a passionate advocate for women in project controls and enjoys the career she has built, which combines her technical project control skills with her passion for leading projects.