Tuesday, October 18, 2016

The American Planning Association




An experienced organizational leader, Odis Jones raised more than $250 million to establish Detroit’s Public Lighting Authority, which he went on to head as CEO. Outside of this work, Odis Jones belongs to several organizations, including the International City Management Association and the American Planning Association. 

Established in 1978, the American Planning Association (APA) represents and comprises professional planners. It also encompasses the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), which holds responsibility for the national certification of professional planners. Since its launch, APA has grown from a membership of 13,000 to one of nearly 40,000, with more than a third of these members certified by AICP. 

APA strives to provide leadership in the development of communities by empowering its members and ensuring they have the skills and support to adjust to ongoing evolutions in the field. To this end, the APA publishes print and digital materials for members, promotes sound planning through education programs, and advocates for the profession at local and national levels. The organization also encourages a diverse workforce by connecting employers with job seekers and by conducting and sharing research.