What is the EPG?
A forum for networking, learning new skills, and above all, having fun!
The Emerging Planners of Georgia (EPG) provides a forum for networking, learning new skills, and above all, having fun. While our events are open to all planners or individuals interested in the industry, our programming is specifically tailored to entry-level professionals with 0-8 years of experience. As a subsidiary of the Georgia Planning Association (GPA), EPG hosts educational, social, and volunteer events for chapter members. Like it is for many, 2021 marks a year of rebuilding. We have welcomed a new board and have established an EPG Committee of upcoming leaders to assist with the EPG workplan. We look forward to offering a consistent programming slate of book clubs, panel discussions, conference events, and more to augment the resources provided by GPA and to support planners early in their careers.
Mission & Goals
The mission of the Emerging Planners of Georgia is to build and develop a community of emerging planning professionals by:
- Cultivating professional skills and promoting the career development of members by providing networking, leadership and educational opportunities to facilitate the transition from academic to professional.
- Engaging the community through volunteering and outreach.
- Supporting and collaborating with other Young Professional Groups in the region.
- Fostering social and professional relationships.
- Providing opportunities for involvement at the state and national levels of APA as well as divisions of APA/GPA.
History
In the Spring of 2008, the American Planning Association (APA) made it a top priority to focus on emerging planners and their professional development. A Young Planners Taskforce was commissioned by APA President, Bob Hunter, to investigate the feasibility of an emerging planners program. The Young Planners Taskforce effort culminated with the presentation of a report to the APA Board of Directors at the 2008 national conference in Las Vegas. The Sacramento Valley Section of California formed the first emerging planners group in the Spring of 2008. Their overwhelming success led to nine other states creating their own groups. Georgia is the ninth state to join the movement.
In the Summer of 2009, the Georgia EPG hosted a Kick Off Meeting where 30 planning professionals gathered to share challenges and offer potential opportunities for EPG to assist emerging planners. Since our formation in 2009, Georgia EPG has hosted networking events at the semiannual GPA conferences, educational programs, and socials.