At Projecting Success, we’re always looking for ways to push the boundaries of learning, ensuring that our apprentices don’t just meet expectations—they exceed them. That’s where Chris Haynes comes in. A dedicated tutor with a wealth of experience in academia, industry, and education, Chris is spearheading the brand-new Trailblazer Scheme, designed to give high-achieving apprentices the opportunity to take their learning to the next level.

Who is Chris Haynes?

Chris has been a tutor with Projecting Success for a year, but his expertise stretches far beyond the classroom. With a background in software development and computer science, he has recently completed a PhD in Intelligent Visualisation and Machine Learning in collaboration with the NHS. His research focused on visualising patient recovery in critical care units and predicting recovery patterns using AI-driven models. Alongside his academic achievements, Chris has over eight years of teaching experience across higher and further education, making him the perfect mentor for those looking to push their limits.

Chris in his PHD graduation gown which is navy blue and orange

What is the Trailblazer Scheme?

The Trailblazer Scheme is designed for learners who are eager to go beyond the core requirements of their apprenticeships. These are individuals who thrive on challenge, seek opportunities to stretch their capabilities, and aspire to make a tangible impact within their organisations. Rather than confining their projects to their immediate teams, Trailblazers will have the chance to work on high-impact challenges affecting entire departments or even entire organisations.

Tutors, including Chris, will play a crucial role in identifying these ambitious learners, ensuring they receive the additional resources and mentorship they need to thrive. The scheme is completely voluntary, meaning participants can opt in based on their desire to take on more significant challenges.

What Can Trailblazers Expect?

Once selected, Trailblazers will gain access to:

High-Impact Projects: Instead of working solely on localised projects, apprentices will be tackling wider departmental or even cross-organisational issues. For instance, Chris is already collaborating with the Ministry of Defence’s Apprenticeship Projects Working Group to identify major challenges that apprentices can help solve.

Expert Mentorship: Learners will receive additional tutoring and guidance from subject matter experts, including specialists in machine learning and data analytics.

Advanced Resources: The scheme provides access to Projecting Success’ data team, including doctoral-level experts like Jonah, Ant, and Ran. Depending on restrictions, apprentices may also gain access to specialised data tools and software. Real-World Solutions: Unlike traditional apprenticeship projects, which may serve as proof of concepts or work-in-pr

A Vision for the Future

Chris envisions the Trailblazer Scheme as more than just an advanced learning initiative. He wants it to be a launchpad for apprentices to create groundbreaking solutions that haven’t been done before—projects that can genuinely revolutionise their industries. Whether it’s deploying AI-driven decision-making tools or tackling organisational inefficiencies, this scheme is about giving learners the tools and confidence to lead the way.

What’s Next?

While the Trailblazer Scheme is still in its early stages, the groundwork is already being laid. Over the coming months, Chris and the team will be identifying top learners, setting up project pipelines, and ensuring that this initiative has the infrastructure to support the next generation of innovators.

For those apprentices who are ready to challenge themselves, push past conventional boundaries, and make a lasting impact—this is just the beginning. Stay tuned as we roll out more details on how to get involved!

Chris and the Trailblazer Scheme embody what Projecting Success is all about: not just learning, but leading. We’re excited to see how this initiative unfolds and the incredible projects that will come out of it.

Project Management Offices (PMOs) are increasingly becoming the driving force behind successful digital transformation initiatives. In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, organizations that harness data-driven decision-making through their PMOs gain a significant competitive advantage.

The Evolution of Modern PMOs

Traditional PMOs have evolved far beyond their original role of standardizing project management practices. Today's PMOs are strategic enablers of digital transformation, leveraging advanced analytics and data-driven insights to guide organisational change. This shift requires PMOs to develop new capabilities and embrace data analytics as a core competency.

Key Ways PMOs Enable Digital Transformation

Data-Driven Decision Making

Modern PMOs utilise real-time project data to make informed decisions about resource allocation, risk management, and strategic alignment. By implementing robust data collection and analysis processes, PMOs can identify patterns, predict potential issues, and recommend evidence-based solutions.

Performance Monitoring and Analytics

Successful digital transformation requires careful monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs). PMOs equipped with strong analytical capabilities can track transformation progress, measure ROI, and adjust strategies based on quantifiable results.

Building Digital Capabilities

To drive digital transformation effectively, PMOs must invest in developing their team's digital and analytical skills. This is where apprenticeship programs become crucial – particularly in building data analysis capabilities within the PMO team.

The Role of Data Analyst Apprenticeships

Organisations looking to enhance their PMO's digital capabilities can benefit significantly from data analyst apprenticeships. Our Level 4 Data Analyst Apprenticeship program specifically addresses this need by:

Future-Proofing Your PMO

As digital transformation continues to reshape business operations, PMOs must evolve to stay relevant and effective. By investing in data analysis capabilities through apprenticeship programs, organisations can build PMOs that are equipped to:

Taking the Next Step

Successful digital transformation requires PMOs to develop strong data analysis capabilities. Our Level 4 Data Analyst Apprenticeship provides the perfect pathway for PMO teams to build these essential skills. By combining practical experience with structured learning, apprentices develop the expertise needed to drive successful digital transformation initiatives.

Ready to transform your PMO's capabilities? Learn more about our Level 4 Data Analyst Apprenticeship program and how it can support your organisation's digital transformation journey.

As the year draws to a close, we at Projecting Success want to take a moment to celebrate the milestones, achievements, and incredible community that made 2024 so remarkable. This year has been one of growth, collaboration, and innovation, and we’re thrilled to share some of the highlights with you.

Project:Hack – Driving Data-Driven Solutions

In 2024, we hosted Project:Hack events at Rolls-Royce in Derby and The University of Sheffield. These events brought together professionals and enthusiasts to tackle real-world project management challenges using data analytics. The solutions presented showcased the power of collaboration and innovation in our field, reinforcing the importance of data-driven project delivery.

Leading Industry Discussions

Our CEO, Martin Paver, continued to champion the conversation on data-driven project management. From delivering keynote speeches at the Project Controls Expo UK to featuring on the Project Flux podcast, Martin has been a leading voice in shaping the future of project delivery. His insights have inspired many to embrace advanced analytics for greater efficiency and success.

Expanding Educational Resources

This year, we significantly grew our YouTube channel, offering a wealth of educational content. From webinar recordings to hackathon pitch videos, our channel has become a hub for continuous learning, supporting professionals at every stage of their journey.

Building a Thriving Community

Our Project Data Analytics Community surpassed 10,000 members in 2024! This vibrant network of project management professionals and data scientists has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and driving innovation. A major highlight of the year was the launch of Project:Womxn, a new initiative aimed at empowering women in tech, data, and project delivery.

Insightful Publications

Martin Paver also authored books on Next Generation PMOs and Risk Management. These publications provide practical guidance on integrating advanced data analytics into project management practices, solidifying our commitment to driving excellence in the field.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We couldn’t have achieved all this without the support of our employer partners, clients, and the incredible Project Data Analytics Community. Your trust and collaboration have been key to our success, and we’re excited to continue this journey with you in 2025.

A Special Holiday Message

As we wrap up the year, we invite you to watch our special holiday message featuring AI Santa (who, funnily enough, sounds a lot like our CEO, Martin!). Click below to hear his festive wishes for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year:

Looking Ahead to 2025

With exciting initiatives, new cohorts, and innovative projects on the horizon—including the launch of our new website in January—we’re ready to make 2025 even better. Stay connected with us for updates, events, and opportunities to collaborate.

From all of us at Projecting Success, have a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year! Here’s to another year of growth, innovation, and data-driven success.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept—it’s a transformative tool that businesses leverage daily to solve challenges, streamline processes, and uncover opportunities. Our Level 7 Data Apprenticeship in AI is designed to make this cutting-edge technology accessible, practical, and impactful, benefiting both learners and their organisations.

Delivering Real Results: Practical Applications and Early Wins

Learners in our program achieve tangible outcomes, demonstrating their ability to:

Within the first three months, many learners have built predictive models and started integrating these tools into their workflows. These small but impactful wins showcase the real-world applicability of their new skills.

What Sets This Program Apart?

Our Level 7 apprenticeship is unique in its approach, catering to a diverse range of participants—from seasoned professionals to those new to the field. The program stands out because of its:

This diversity enriches the learning experience, encouraging collaboration and fostering creative problem-solving.

Supporting Growth Through Tailored Guidance

One-on-one meetings between learners, their managers, and tutors are integral to the program’s success. These sessions:

By aligning learning objectives with business outcomes, the program delivers results that matter.

Exploring Advanced Topics and Techniques

The journey doesn’t stop at foundational skills. Learners delve into advanced AI methodologies, including:

These skills empower learners to tackle complex challenges and create transformative AI solutions.

Advocates for the Program: Inspiring Organisational Change

The enthusiasm of our learners extends beyond the classroom. Many have become advocates within their organisations, sharing their experiences and inspiring others to embrace AI and data skills. This ripple effect amplifies the program’s impact, driving cultural and operational shifts.

Why This Matters for Employers

Investing in this apprenticeship means investing in your team’s future. With advanced AI skills, employees can:

This program goes beyond teaching AI—it equips teams to make a real, lasting difference.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Transformation

The journey for our learners is far from over. As they continue to tackle groundbreaking projects and refine their expertise, they’re laying the foundation for long-term success—both for themselves and their organisations. From developing sophisticated AI models to exploring innovative applications, the future is brimming with possibilities.

Join Us on This Transformative Journey

The Level 7 Data Apprenticeship in AI is revolutionising how businesses approach challenges and opportunities. Ready to see what this program could do for your team? Let’s start the conversation and unlock the transformative potential of AI together.

When I started my career in Apprenticeships in 2014, I had no idea of the industry I was entering or how rewarding it would be.

My previous job had been in Recruitment Sales (which I hated) and after leaving that role I didn’t know what to do. I saw an advert in the local paper for a training provider (I didn’t even know what that was back then) but the advert looked like I could utilise what I’d learnt as a Recruitment Consultant so I applied.

I got the job believing that I was just being a recruitment consultant, but just placing apprentices’ rather than experienced people. I didn’t expect to enjoy it, let alone feel how rewarding it would be.

That changed quickly!

One of the first apprenticeship candidates I worked with was a young man with autism and ADHD. I didn’t know what either of those meant particularly until his dad told not to get his sons hoped up about finding him a placement because his autism meant that he needed a role with “a lot of structure” but his ADHD meant he’d “get bored quickly”!

What had I let myself in for….

I didn’t just find him one role. But three job offers from five interviews.

The look on his face when I made those job offers to him changed everything.

As a training provider we’d given that young man a new opportunity. I was hooked!

From then on, I knew that the job we did as an apprenticeship provider was really important: We created opportunities for individuals and businesses alike.

The importance of being consultative in providing IAG

We don’t sell courses at any cost. We listen to the employer-partner to understand what they’re looking to gain from upskilling their people and then provide Information, Advice & Guidance (IAG) on which of our programmes is the best match.

That’s the only way that both our apprenticeship delegates and employer partners get the most out of their apprenticeship journey.

Changing the world of Project Delivery

I love the fact that Projecting Success didn’t set out to be a training provider but to change the world of Project Delivery by using Data Analytics & AI.

The apprenticeship side came from a desire to upskill people with the tools to make that change.

We’re changing the world and creating opportunities one apprentice at a time.

Looking ahead.

As I continue my journey with Projecting Success I’ll continue our mission in educating employers to adopt Data Analytics and AI in their project delivery to drive efficiencies and productivity.

We’ve only just started, and there’s still so much to do!

A Huge Congratulations to All the Teams at Project:Hack23!

On the heels of a dynamic two-day hackathon, we gathered tonight for the virtual awards ceremony to honour the incredible talent and innovation displayed at Project:Hack23. The event brought together professionals and aspiring data enthusiasts to tackle real-world challenges, delivering innovative solutions with the potential to revolutionize industries.

Here’s how the leaderboard shaped up:

🏆 1st Place: Team 2B - 2B or not 2B
🥈 2nd Place: Team 3B - Risky Business
🥉 3rd Place: Team 3C - Team Supreme
🏅 4th Place: Team 3A - Projecting_The_Win

Innovation That Impressed the Judges

Our panel of expert judges, comprised of industry leaders and data specialists, had the difficult task of selecting winners from a pool of outstanding submissions. Their feedback reflected awe at the ingenuity, creativity, and practical application of the solutions presented.

"These teams demonstrated an impressive ability to transform complex data into actionable insights, supporting quicker and more informed decision-making," shared one of the judges.

Here are just a few highlights of the solutions that stood out:

What’s Next?

While the awards ceremony marks the culmination of this hackathon, it’s far from the end for these groundbreaking ideas. Many solutions have the potential to evolve into full-scale applications, making a tangible impact on industries ranging from construction to finance.

We’re excited to work with these teams to explore how their solutions can be further developed and implemented. Project:Hack events have a proven track record of sparking innovations that translate into real-world success stories.

A Final Thank You

A massive thank you to:

Join Us for the Next Hackathon!

If you’re inspired by the achievements of Project:Hack23 and want to be part of the next wave of innovation, keep an eye on our website and social channels for updates on Project:Hack24, coming in March 2025.

Together, let’s continue to harness the power of data and technology to shape a brighter, smarter future.

Stay tuned for updates, and congratulations once again to the incredible teams of Project:Hack23!

I had the pleasure of delivering a talk to the Association for Project Management NW network on 13 November on Next Gen Project Delivery - Disrupting the Status Quo. The opportunities presented by advanced data analytics and AI are vast and truly transformative. The project delivery profession will look very different very soon. The pace of this change is no longer constrained by the tools and technology, there is an abundance of choice. It is constrained only by organisational ambition, vision, people with the skills to make it happen and sheer determination.

I was delighted to share the stage with the brilliant Kathryn Jones from United Utilities who shared the vision for the Project Data Analytics Coalition. Working together and pooling resources to really move the dial on project delivery through the power of advanced data analytics and AI.  

Image courtesy of Lee Adam's via LinkedIn.

Free - The ChPP wizard to help people to prepare for the APM’s ChPP application process. Levelling the playing field for those who may not have access to the sort of coaching available within larger organisations. I haven’t updated it in a while so please let me know where you’d like it improved. 

Free - My book on Next Gen PMOs, moving PMOs towards being the Centre for insights.

Free- My book on Next Gen Risk Management, removing the mundane elements of risk management and moving towards variance analytics

Free (subject to government rules) – Training on how to supercharge your career and unlock the opportunities in Next Gen project delivery.

Discounted – A senior leaders course that I deliver with Andy Murray, Exec Director of Major Projects Association and lead author of PRINCE 2, on the opportunities that advanced data analytics and AI present for project delivery

Free – Follow us on LinkedIn and my personal account

Free – Our YouTube Channel with hack pitch videos and educational webinars.

Free – PDA Task Force website

Martin Paver is CEO and Founder of Projecting Success. He is an internationally recognised expert and thought leader in advanced project data analytics. He secured a DataIQ award for most influential people in data for 2 consecutive years. He founded the Projects Data and Analytics Community with >10000 members with the objective of cross fertilising skills in P3M and data science, transforming project delivery. He was instrumental in founding the Project Data Analytics Task Force in 2020 and the Coalition in 2024. He has written books on Next Gen Risk Management, Next Gen PMO and a soon to be published book on Next Gen Assurance. He is co-author of the PRINCE2 v7 AI Practice Guide. He is also a highly experienced and qualified professional Portfolio, Programme, Project Director/Chartered Project Professional, Strategist and change management consultant with >30 years’ experience across government and the private sector within senior strategic and transformational leadership positions. He is challenging the status quo, driving advanced data analytics to reshape an entire profession.  Plus, he loves it!

Project:Hack23 was a roaring success, bringing together the brightest minds from the project delivery and data science communities to solve real-world challenges and drive innovation. With 150 participants and inspiring solutions, this year’s event truly showcased the power of collaboration, creative problem-solving, and the application of data-driven technologies.

Highlights from Project:Hack

Held over two days at Rolls Royce Derby, Project:Hack23 saw teams of talented hackers, apprentices, and professionals working hand in hand to tackle challenges presented by some of the world’s leading organisations. From cutting-edge AI solutions to project management breakthroughs, the energy and enthusiasm in the room were palpable. The event offered a platform for attendees to not only demonstrate their technical expertise but also forge lasting connections with industry leaders and peers alike.

project:hack Challenges this year included:

1️⃣ 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

2️⃣ 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

3️⃣ 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐤 𝐌𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

4️⃣ 𝐃𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐨 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠

5️⃣ 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠

The teams rose to the occasion, producing solutions that surpassed all expectations. Whether it was implementing AI for smarter project management or developing cutting-edge dashboards, the outcomes were not just innovative but actionable, paving the way for future collaboration between the event’s participants and our challenge owners.

A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors and Partners

Events like Project:Hack wouldn’t be possible without the support of our incredible sponsors and partners. We are deeply grateful to the Major Projects Association (MPA), the Association for Project Management (APM), and Rolls-Royce for their generous contributions, which helped make this event a reality. Your backing allowed us to provide a platform for knowledge sharing, skill development, and industry advancement.

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the challenge owners for bringing forward such relevant and forward-thinking problems. By doing so, you inspired our participants to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Applauding Our Apprentices and Hackers

To all the apprentices and hackers who turned up, we want to say a huge thank you. Your creativity, dedication, and teamwork made this event such a success. Seeing the way you tackled each challenge with enthusiasm, collaboration, and an openness to learn was truly inspiring. You not only delivered solutions but also demonstrated how data, AI, and project delivery can come together to solve real-world problems.

We’re proud of each and every one of you and look forward to seeing the continued impact of the work that started at Project:Hack23. Whether you're an apprentice who’s just beginning your journey or an experienced professional, your participation added incredible value to this event

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on the success of Project:Hack, we’re already excited for what the future holds. The connections made, the innovations proposed, and the solutions developed are just the beginning. We can’t wait to see how these ideas evolve and contribute to industry growth in the coming months.

Once again, thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s event – from our sponsors and challenge owners to the participants and event staff. You’ve made Project:Hack23

an event to remember!

Stay tuned for details about Project:Hack24, where we’ll continue to challenge the status quo, drive innovation, and, most importantly, work together to build a better future for project delivery and data science.

When I began my career in the Further Education sector over a decade ago, I never imagined how transformative the journey would be — not only for myself but for the many learners I’ve had the privilege of supporting along the way. Having started without formal qualifications, my path to becoming an Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) is a testament to the power of apprenticeships and lifelong learning.

A Career Highlight: Ofsted Recognition

One of the proudest moments in my career came when I was observed by Ofsted and graded as ‘GOOD’ for my quality assurance work. This recognition was a testament to the dedication I put into maintaining high standards and fostering impactful learning environments. It’s a highlight that continues to inspire my work today, now in my role at Projecting Success, where I apply these same principles to support the development of apprentices.

A Holistic Understanding of Further Education

Throughout my career, I’ve held a variety of roles within Further Education, giving me a comprehensive understanding of the field. These experiences allow me to see the bigger picture when it comes to quality assurance, understanding both the challenges and opportunities that come with maintaining high standards. At Projecting Success, my goal is to ensure that we not only meet but exceed the expectations set for us — whether by regulatory bodies, awarding organisations, or our apprentices.

The Importance of Quality Assurance

Quality assurance is vital in any business, but in education, it takes on an even greater significance. It’s not just about ticking boxes or meeting compliance requirements; it’s about ensuring that every learner has access to the highest quality education and training. At Projecting Success, this means maintaining consistency, driving development, and fostering collaboration both internally and externally.

Key Responsibilities and Impact

My role as an IQA is diverse and dynamic. Some of my key responsibilities include:

Ultimately, everything I do is aimed at providing our apprentices with the best possible learning journey while continuously improving our processes.

Looking Ahead

As I continue my journey at Projecting Success, I remain passionate about making a positive impact on education, project management, and data analysis. Apprenticeships have played a pivotal role in shaping my own career, and I’m dedicated to ensuring they do the same for our learners. With continuous improvement at the heart of everything we do, I’m excited to see how we can push the boundaries of what’s possible in education and training.

By maintaining high standards and fostering an environment of growth, we can ensure that our apprentices not only succeed but thrive in their careers, just as I have in mine.

To learn more about Terri's work and her contributions to quality assurance at Projecting Success, feel free to reach out to her directly at Terrim@projectingsuccess.co.uk. She’ll be happy to share her insights and experiences.

At Projecting Success, we believe in the power of collaboration, innovation, and the sharing of knowledge to drive transformation in project management. As we gear up for Project:Hack 23 in Derby, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible sponsors who have made this event possible: the Major Projects Association (MPA), the Association for Project Management (APM), and Rolls-Royce for their invaluable support.

Major Projects Association (MPA)

The MPA has long been a leader in promoting best practices, insights, and innovations in the delivery of major projects across the UK. Their commitment to fostering a community of learning, development, and sharing aligns perfectly with the ethos of Project

By supporting this event, the MPA is helping to bring together professionals, experts, and innovators who are passionate about transforming the way we approach project management through data, AI, and cutting-edge technology.

Association for Project Management (APM)

The APM are the only chartered membership organisation for the project profession and is the largest professional body for project management in the UK, dedicated to developing and promoting project and program management excellence. Their support for Project:Hack 23 underscores their commitment to driving the profession forward, empowering project managers with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and digital world. The APM's sponsorship helps ensure that Project:Hack 23 is a platform where professionals can explore the latest trends, tools, and methodologies to tackle real-world project challenges.

Rolls-Royce – Our Event Host

We are thrilled to be hosting Project:Hack 23 at the Rolls-Royce Learning and Development Centre in Derby. Rolls-Royce has long been at the forefront of innovation, engineering, and excellence in project management. Their generous support in hosting this event provides the perfect backdrop for exploring the intersection of data, AI, and project management. The Rolls-Royce team has been instrumental in ensuring that our attendees will have an unforgettable experience, from the informative sessions to the exclusive hack tour, and of course, the networking opportunities during our Executive Dinner.

Project:Hack 23 – Driving Innovation in Project Management

With the support of our sponsors, Project:Hack 23 is set to be a truly impactful event, bringing together project professionals, data experts, and technologists to explore how data and AI can unlock new efficiencies and insights in project delivery. The event will showcase how technology is reshaping project management, with hands-on activities, expert talks, and networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

Enquire now

Projecting Success aren’t just working on data driven project delivery, we are taking a pivotal role in shaping and creating this future. If you’d like to speak to one of our experts on the subject then please register below, or drop us an email to enquiries@projectingsuccess.co.uk