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Climbing the career ladder: Michael Baker

Published on: 15 Dec 2016

Arup planner Michael Baker talks about his career journey so far.

 

Michael BakerWhy planning?

I have always been interested in architecture and history, and a geography teacher pointed out planning to me. For me, it brings together some of the most important questions society asks about itself, its past, its future; all in one undervalued profession!

 

What was your first role in planning?

I was an assistant case officer at the Infrastructure Planning Commission. I supported the team in managing Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs), giving advice to the public and developers.

 

What does your current role involve?

Having only been here for a month, so far my role has entailed managing planning applications for clients, big and small. I have put my experience of NSIPs to good use, while learning about development management at local authority level.

 

What projects are you working on now?

Everything from a warehouse extension in the South-West to a nationally significant overhead electricity line project in the East.

 

How do you see your career developing?

I am late in becoming a chartered member of the RTPI, which is the immediate next step for me. I also want to explore strategic planning and policy in a few years’ time.