Last updated on Jul 8, 2024

What do you do if you're transitioning careers but want to stay connected to the Urban Planning industry?

Transitioning careers can be a daunting experience, especially if you've invested significant time and energy into the urban planning industry. Urban planning, the discipline focused on the development and design of land use and the built environment, including air, water, and the infrastructure passing into and out of urban areas, requires a broad skill set and an understanding of both public policy and private development. You might be moving on for various reasons, but maintaining a connection to the field can be beneficial for your professional growth and personal satisfaction. Whether it's through networking, freelancing, or continuous learning, there are several strategies you can employ to stay engaged with the urban planning community and keep abreast of industry trends while pursuing a new career path.

1 Networking Value

Networking is a powerful tool for staying connected to any industry, and urban planning is no exception. Attend conferences, join professional associations, and participate in online forums dedicated to urban planning. These activities allow you to maintain relationships with former colleagues and meet new professionals in the field. By keeping these connections alive, you'll stay informed about changes in urban planning, such as new zoning laws or innovative design approaches. Moreover, networking can lead to collaborative opportunities, freelance projects, or even part-time positions that can help you keep one foot in the urban planning door.

Add your perspective

Ali Khodabandeh

M.A Student of Regional Planning at University of Tehran
Report contribution
1) Social Network Theory: The text aligns with Mark Granovetter's social network theory. Granovetter's concept of "the strength of weak ties" emphasizes the importance of broad connections in accessing new information and opportunities. 2) Social Capital: The emphasis on maintaining and expanding professional connections corresponds with Robert Putnam's concept of social capital. This theory stresses the value of social relationships and networks in individual and social advancement. 3) Organizational Learning: The reference to gaining new information through networking aligns with Peter Senge's theory of organizational learning. This theory emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and knowledge exchange in dynamic environments.

Like

Unhelpful

2 Mentorship Roles

Consider becoming a mentor to emerging urban planning professionals. Sharing your expertise can be incredibly rewarding and keeps you involved in the industry. As a mentor, you'll have the chance to guide newcomers through the complexities of urban planning, from navigating bureaucratic processes to implementing sustainable practices. This role not only benefits your mentees but also keeps your own knowledge sharp. Engaging in discussions about current trends and challenges in urban planning can offer fresh perspectives that may even be valuable in your new career.

Add your perspective

3 Freelance Projects

Freelancing is an excellent way to maintain a direct connection with urban planning while transitioning to a new career. Offer your skills on a project basis to local municipalities, non-profits, or private firms. This could involve consulting on specific aspects of a development project, conducting research, or providing design insights. Freelancing allows you to apply your urban planning knowledge in a flexible manner, fitting around your new career commitments while still contributing meaningfully to the field.

Add your perspective

Lavanya Baskaran

Research Assistant | GIS Analyst & Enthusiast | Urban Planning Graduate | Department of Town & Country Planning| University of Moratuwa
Report contribution
If managing a part-time job is challenging while you are fully engaged in a full-time position in a different field, consider taking on freelance projects. Freelancing can help you stay connected to the urban planning industry and might be a more flexible and engaging option for you.

Like

Unhelpful

4 Continuous Learning

The urban planning industry is constantly evolving, so continuous learning is crucial to stay up-to-date. Enroll in online courses, attend webinars, or read industry publications to keep your knowledge current. This will not only help you maintain a connection to urban planning but also enhance your resume should you decide to return to the field in the future. Additionally, the skills and insights gained through ongoing education can be transferable and beneficial in your new career.

Add your perspective

5 Volunteering Efforts

Volunteering for community projects related to urban planning can be a fulfilling way to stay connected with the industry. Local governments and non-profit organizations often need volunteers for initiatives such as neighborhood revitalization, public space improvements, or sustainability programs. By donating your time and expertise to these causes, you'll remain engaged with the principles of urban planning and contribute positively to communities, all while building a network of like-minded individuals who share your passion for the built environment.

Add your perspective

6 Professional Development

Lastly, don't overlook the importance of professional development in maintaining your connection to urban planning. Attending workshops, obtaining certifications, or even pursuing further education can solidify your expertise in the field. These actions demonstrate a commitment to your professional growth within urban planning, even as you explore other career avenues. They can also open doors to new opportunities within the industry that you may not have considered previously.

Add your perspective

Lavanya Baskaran

Research Assistant | GIS Analyst & Enthusiast | Urban Planning Graduate | Department of Town & Country Planning| University of Moratuwa
Report contribution
Sometimes we choose to switch careers from urban planning to a different industry. However, we can still stay connected to urban planning by pursuing further studies such as a master's or PhD in the field. Additionally, we can engage with urban planning institutions through workshops, certifications, exams, and other professional development opportunities. If possible, taking on a part-time job related to urban planning while working in another main job can also help maintain this connection.

Like

Unhelpful
Denisse Anne Veloso, EnP.

Urban Planner & Environmental Consultant | Urban & Regional Planning, Environmental Impact Assessment, Renewable Energy, Environmental Compliance
(edited)
Report contribution
Pursuing further professional development in the field of urban planning such as by taking up trainings, gaining certifications, or even taking up post graduate qualifications, can keep a professional connected in the urban planning industry.

Like

Unhelpful

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Add your perspective

What do you do if you're transitioning careers but want to stay connected to the Urban Planning industry?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Networking Value

2 Mentorship Roles

3 Freelance Projects

4 Continuous Learning

5 Volunteering Efforts

6 Professional Development

7 Here’s what else to consider

Urban Planning

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Urban Planning

More relevant reading

What do you do if you're transitioning careers but want to stay connected to the Urban Planning industry?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Networking Value

2 Mentorship Roles

3 Freelance Projects

4 Continuous Learning

5 Volunteering Efforts

6 Professional Development

7 Here’s what else to consider

Urban Planning

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

Explore Other Skills