APM Volunteer Achievement Awards 2025 – Past Nominees share their experiences

The Association for Project Management (APM) Volunteer Achievement Awards are an annual event that celebrates the enormous contribution of APM's volunteering community, from individual volunteers to Regional and Interest Networks.

The 2025 APM Volunteer Achievement Awards  are steadily approaching and nominations are now open. To celebrate, we spoke to past nominees Shirley Conway and Andrew Barber about why these awards are important for the profession.

What did being nominated mean to you?

Shirley: It has meant so much to me. It is recognition for all my work from everyone on the committee and I am so lucky to be part of a great team (my fellow committee member, Emma Regulski was the runner up for the award). It is lovely to have your efforts and those of the APM Scotland Regional Network recognised in this way and has definitely made me feel very special.

Andrew: I initially felt a bit of a fraud as I was only doing something that I felt strongly about, but to be recognised by your peers for doing something you are passionate about was a real honour. The fact I was awarded the runner up was made it even more special.

How did you find out you were nominated?

Shirley: I only found out I had been nominated when I was invited to the Awards dinner and it was only on the night that I found out I had been nominated for 2 awards. A fellow member of the committee and our APM Scotland chair submitted the nominations.

Andrew: I received an email notifying me that I had been nominated, which came completely out of the blue, and was a nice thing to receive.

Why is volunteering at APM important to you?

Shirley: I started volunteering with APM over 10 years ago after my employer encouraged their Project Managers to undertake formal APM qualifications. I have loved volunteering with APM over the years, it complements my work as a Programme Manager and allows me to give back to the profession and my employer (Leidos). I now feel like an experienced volunteer  and I hope I can help others who are starting on this journey to enjoy the experience. I have met so many great APM volunteers who willing give of their time and contribute so much. 

Andrew: Since my best project management years are behind me, I just want to provide others (younger and more enthusiastic) some guidance and opportunities, I see the best way to do this is through my APM volunteering.

What is your message to people who are thinking about nominating someone?

Shirley: I would encourage everyone to consider nominating someone for the volunteer awards so that deserving contributions are recognised.

Andrew: Absolutely go for it! It’s all about giving back.

Now is your chance to get involved and nominate someone. To recognise the good work someone has done as an APM volunteer, please submit a nomination here.