APM Channel Islands Regional Network events help professionals embrace AI

APM’s Channel Islands Regional Network drove the discussion on artificial intelligence in the project profession during two events hosted in Guernsey.

The events were held as part of the Guernsey AI Sprint, an island-wide programme held between 1 October and 12 November, that brought together businesses, charities and individuals to explore, learn and act on AI.

The sessions held by the Channel Islands Regional Network brought dozens of project experts from the local community and further afield, to share their expertise and hear new insights on what AI means for projects and how to keep pace with change.

AI in construction

The first session took place on 30 October and was led by James Garner, Head of AI and Data at Gleeds and host of the ‘Project Flux’ podcast. This event explored practical AI adoption in project delivery and construction. Delegates looked at ways AI can connect information across drawings, contracts, emails and spreadsheets, helping professionals identify gaps and focus their attention where it matters.

Takeaways included: hand AI the job but keep the human judgement; verify AI outputs before handing them over; and focus on outcomes, not tasks.

James Garner commented afterwards: “The turnout in Guernsey showed how hungry project professionals are for practical, honest conversation about AI. The subject matters because these tools are already changing how we plan, estimate and deliver work. Events like this give people a chance to cut through the noise and talk about what actually helps on live projects.”

AI in project management

On 2 November, Nermeen Latif, Technical Director at WSP and PMO, governance and programme controls specialist, led a senior-level discussion about where AI genuinely helps project delivery and governance.

The discussion focused on defining outcomes, redesigning workflows, retaining accountability and setting clear boundaries for agents.

Speaking after the session, Nermeen said: “Across both events, contributions reflected curiosity and willingness to experiment, alongside concern about information overload, security and keeping pace with change. People wanted practical starting points and evidence of value.

“The ambition is better decisions and more reliable delivery, with professionals retaining responsibility for the results.”

Scott Crittell, Deputy Lead for the Channel Islands Regional Network, organised the events. He said: “AI is important for businesses in the Channel Islands to deliver projects successfully because it can help streamline routine tasks, improve productivity and help organisations remain competitive.

“These events were an important opportunity for local attendees to learn more about AI, share their experiences and explore how it can be applied in their own organisations. We were pleased with how well they went.”

Thank you

The APM Channel Islands Regional Network wishes to thank the following people and organisations for their support:

• Grow Charity Guernsey and Northern Trust in Guernsey for providing support and the venues.
• Event partners Guernsey Building Trades Employers Association (GBTEA) and Guernsey International Business Association (GIBA).
• James Garner and Nermeen Latif for sharing their expertise.
• Katie Inder and Sophie Lucassen for their support across the Guernsey AI Sprint initiative.
• The G8 bodies and industry partners of the Guernsey AI Sprint, and the All-in AI Sprint sponsors. 

Find out more

• APM Channel Islands Regional Network
• Research - Digital transformation and the AI imperative in public and private sector projects
• Guide - Ethical and Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in Project Management
• Case studies - Case studies: Understanding the current impacts of AI and the journey towards adoption