Does the private sector value the AICP credential?
Posted by: Joel in profession, Planning, credential, CM, certification maintenance, certification on
May 19, 2009
On an internet networking site for planners, a young planner asked whether the private sector values the AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) credential. Here is my reply:
When I trained in the joint degree program at Rutgers (M.C.R.P. / J.D.) almost 30 years ago, I became a Charter member of APA, when ASPO merged with AIP. New Jersey was the only state with a license for planners, the with the unfortunate initials, "P.P." Since much of my subsequent work experience was as a lawyer, it took a sojourn away from law before I had the planning practice experience necessary to apply for the AICP credential.
The problem now is the same as recognized then. There is no standard route to becoming a professional planner. Economists, civil engineers, English majors, geographers, political science majors, architects, surveyors, the mayor's nephew, even lawyers, all become planners. Don't get me wrong. The diversity of perspectives is one of the professions' greatest strengths. APA and AICP establish a common framework and understanding with which the diversity of those who become planners must familiarize themselves. A statement of principles and ethical norms binds us, however loosely, together. APA and AICP reflect a commitment to professionalism even if "Any Idiot Can Plan".
Recently the model has exploded, with LEED and "Institute of Green Professionals" all touting their certifications. It's not good enough to be a planner - now you have to be a "Green" planner. In my view planners are green by definition, and APA and AICP need to communicate that message in in their branding strategy. You can end up with a ridiculous string of initials after your name. I say this as I cram for my LEED-AP exam.
Still, I value my AICP credential above the rest. One reason is that when I approach a planning counter or a podium AICP gives me instant credibility that a mere law degree does not. My commitment to the ethical standards of AICP means that I approach the practice of law differently than many of my peers. Long-term, comprehensive, participatory, social equity, appreciation for the value of place, reconciliation of the needs of the natural and developed worlds. These are values and perspectives that AICP supports and sustains. Credential Maintenance (CM) requirements keeps me in touch with best practices and network with other planners.
I'm not sure whether the "private sector" values the AICP credential (and I have almost always worked in either the non-profit or private sectors). I know that I do, and that's good enough for me.
and Use Regulation in California encompasses General and Specific Plan Adoption and Amendments, Zoning Ordinances, Conditional Use Permits, Variances, Subdivision Maps, Development Agreements, Mitigation Fee Act Compliance, Reimbursement Agreements, Annexations and special district formation through local government proceedings as well as voter initiative and referendum. Specialized processes frequently come into play in different areas of the state or when particular issues are involved. such as the Coastal Zone, Lake Tahoe region, Bay-Delta area, surface mining, air and water quality regulation, habitat protection, airports, fire safety, flood control.
