We were delighted to represent PMI at the West Lothian Business Showcase 2026, held at West Lothian College on 22 October. The event brought together more than 50 businesses from across the region, providing an excellent opportunity to network, build relationships and explore potential collaborations.
Ian Wotherspoon, Paolo Monachello and Billy Grierson were on the PMI stand throughout the day, meeting local business owners, professionals and representatives from support organisations.
Our aim was simple: to start conversations about project management and its practical benefits for organisations of all sizes. Many businesses run projects every day without thinking of them in those terms. We wanted to show how even basic project management skills can help improve planning, reduce risk and increase the likelihood of success.
The response was extremely positive, with plenty of interest from both businesses and individuals keen to learn more about how project management can support their goals.
One of the most encouraging conversations we had at the exhibition was with DYW West Lothian, part of Developing the Young Workforce (DYW). DYW works in Scotland to bring together schools, colleges, universities and employers, helping young people understand the opportunities available to them and make the transition into further study, apprenticeships and employment. Their focus is on giving young people a clearer picture of the world of work and helping them develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed.
As project managers, many of us have experience that could be valuable to young people starting out in their careers. Through careers talks, mentoring, employability workshops and school projects, PMI members could help young people develop skills such as planning, problem solving, teamwork and communication. There seems to be a natural fit between the work of DYW and the PMI.
By Billy Grierson
