Climbing the career ladder: Michael Baker
Arup planner Michael Baker talks about his career journey so far.
Why 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.