A Professional Planning Career In Manitoba

Manitoba's community planning professionals have developed careers in a wide range of settings. Although most may be found in government at the local, provincial and federal levels and employed in such areas as resource planning, environmental planning, social planning, city planning, community revitalization, neighbourhood development, rural land use planning, community economic development or policy research, others are university teachers or in private practice as consultants.

Given the scope of the planning field and the extensive training they receive (most have several university degrees in such disciplines as economics, geography, political science, architecture, engineering in addition to their planning credentials), professional community planners tend to be able to adapt their skills to the demands of the market place. For example, during the 1970s many new graduates found land use planning jobs in government or with private consultants. In the 1980s and 1990s, there was a significant emphasis on rural community and economic development. Currently there is a particular interest in planners with strong GIS computer skills, and urban redevelopment and sustainable development specialization. Openings in various areas of community planning may be anticipated in the next few years due to retirements.

The various fields of community planning offer numerous opportunities and possibilities for professionals with strong academic backgrounds coupled with the capabilities of teamwork, communication, managing conflict, hard work and an understanding of the world around them. Specialization in related fields provides additional marketability.

Prospective community planning professionals are encouraged to have or seek a strong education in a field related to planning, coupled with a degree from an accredited university program recognized by the Canadian Institute of Planners, and to search out opportunities to gain initial on the job experience. The affiliated Manitoba Professional Planners Institute (MPPI) sponsors a mentorship program that links practicing professionals with planning students to advance development and career opportunities.

For further information on professional community planning as a career, please refer to the Canadian Institute of Planners website. You can also contact MPPI’s Chair of the Academic and Professional Development Committee.

Employment Opportunities

Manitoba (Outside Manitoba)