Learning Along the WayðŸ§
What is AICP?
One of the unexpected things about digging through public records is learning an entirely new vocabulary.
Today I learned about AICP, which stands for the American Institute of Certified Planners.
At first, I assumed it was a required license to work as a city planner.
It isn't.
AICP is a voluntary professional certification offered through the American Planning Association. To earn it, planners must meet education and experience requirements, pass a comprehensive examination, and agree to follow a professional code of ethics. Those who become certified also complete ongoing professional education to maintain their certification.
Do all cities require AICP?
No.
Many cities employ planners who hold AICP certification, while others do not require it for planning positions. Whether AICP is preferred, encouraged, or required depends on the employer and the position. In the United States, planning itself is generally not a licensed profession in the same way law or engineering is, and AICP is a professional certification rather than a legal requirement to practice.
Why am I writing about this?
Because accuracy matters.
In an earlier graphic, I mistakenly identified an individual as holding the AICP credential. After receiving a correction, I removed the designation because I could not independently verify it.
One of the goals of the Horn Rapids Files is to continuously improve the archive as new information becomes available. If I make a mistake, I'll correct it. That's part of building a resource people can trust.
Sometimes the most important thing I uncover isn't a document—it's realizing I still have something to learn.
