Leadership Academy

Planning Leadership Academy

Overview

In partnership with the California Chapter of the American Planning Association, the California Planning Roundtable Planning Leadership Academy is a professional development program created to help planners prepare for leadership roles in their organizations. Through the program, participants will gain knowledge and skills in leadership, organizational dynamics, communication, and career planning to help them identify and achieve their professional goals while equipping them with tools to make even stronger contributions to their organizations.





Become a Changemaker

This program was developed to help planners make an impact. Learn directly from fellow change makers from across California who are advancing best practices and important causes and leading others through transformative changes.

Why Participate?

Discover what kind of leader you want to be. This is the most critical step towards significant improvements in leadership. Self-aware leaders can clearly communicate their vision to stakeholders, colleagues and employees.

Participants also learn important skills like how to leverage conflict and build more effective working relationships with others. You will learn specific, practical strategies that can be implemented at your organization immediately. Lessons will help you:

  • Articulate your personal leadership philosophy
  • Build a high-performance team
  • Align and accomplish organizational goals
  • Strengthen your influence

See the 2025 Program Flyer for more information.

2025 Program Schedule

Six virtual Zoom sessions on Friday mornings (8:30am - 10:30am)

  • January 24 Introduction & Leadership Values
  • February 28 Finding Your Leadership Path
  • March 21 Emotional Intelligence
  • April 25 Difficult Conversations
  • May 23 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
  • June 13 Leadership Reflections

Registration

Registration Link (American Planning Association California)

Registration is open until November 30, 2024

  • Registration is limited to 100 participants
  • Fee: $100 (includes CliftonStrengths Assessment)
  • 12 CM credits

Featured Speakers

Speakers to be announced soon.

Testimonials

I experienced a valuable opportunity to reflect on my strengths as well as areas I needed to improve as a leader. I cherished the thoughtful conversations and commitment from all participants and facilitators.

Pat Hachiya

PAT HACHIYA, AICP
SUPERVISING REGIONAL PLANNER, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES

Lessons and discussions were very insightful and interesting. I would recommend to any planner who wants to improve their abilities and effectiveness.

Luis Escobedo

LUIS ESCOBEDO, AICP
SENIOR PLANNER, CITY OF WHITTIER

I appreciated the format where industry experts shared their personal stories and some of their career challenges and lessons. I also appreciated the small break-out rooms where our peers shared in a supportive and engaging environment.

Michael Cass

MICHAEL CASS
PRINCIPAL PLANNER, CITY OF MARTINEZ

The small discussion groups provided the opportunity to share experiences in a more personal way. There is tremendous value in being able to share professional challenges in a setting where people can listen and share their own ideas and approaches.

Nancy Woltering

NANCY WOLTERING
ASSOCIATE PLANNER, TOWN OF WOODSIDE