Navigating Early Careers: Insights from APA

In this episode of Urban Planning is Not Boring, Sam and Nat are joined by three representatives from various APA California chapters who share their experiences as young and emerging planners and discuss opportunities at the upcoming APA California Conference:

• Tony Lopez, APA Inland Empire
• Kyle Wilson, APA Orange County
• Brittany Montano, APA Los Angeles

Join us as we dive into the world of young and emerging planners with a focus on the American Planning Association (APA) and its support for early-career professionals. We explore how APA helps shape the future of urban planning by fostering leadership, providing mentorship, and building networks for young professionals. Join us as we hear from members of the Young and Emerging Planners group, who share their experiences, challenges, and the resources that have helped them navigate the early stages of their careers. Whether you’re a student, a new planner, or someone looking to support the next generation of urbanists, this episode offers valuable insights on how APA is empowering the future of planning. 

APA California Conference

Free Student Day: Saturday, September 28th from 8 AM - 11 PM

Student Day Sessions:

• Urban Planning is Not Boring (UPINB) Unplugged: Insights for Professional Growth
• Your Dream Job May Not Exist (Yet!) – The Long and Winding Road for Planning Careers
• Cultivating Your internship for a Successful Planning Career
• What Students Want/What Employers Need (CPF)
• Dude, Where’s my Job? Finding your Way in the Planning Profession

Other Student / YEP Activities:

• Buddy Program (Mentorship)
• Headshots
• Career Day - Resume/Interview Workshops (Sunday 9/29)
• Saturday Night Mixer
• Tactical Urbanism Workshop
• UPINB Meet and Greet (Saturday, September 28th @ 8 AM) and Live Episode

How to Participate: 

• Register for the Conference: apacalifornia.org/conference/2024-conferences
• Students will earn a $100 stipend for volunteering (min. 4 hours) at the conference. Sign up with our interest form and we will connect with you. Please be sure to register for the conference as well.