Future Leaders in Planning (FLIP) is the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning's (CMAP) summer program for high school students in northeastern Illinois. FLIP is a free leadership development program for students to explore the field of urban planning and learn about the issues that shape our region and communities.

FLIP introduces students to planning topics through engaging sessions and activities led by regional planning experts from CMAP and partner agencies. Topics touch on the many angles of urban planning, from design and public transportation to housing and environmental protection. 

Through FLIP, students learn about career paths and opportunities to get involved in urban planning, urban design, sustainability, public policy, government, transportation, environmental planning, water supply, community development, and public engagement.

This year’s FLIP program will consist of four in-person, full-day Friday sessions. FLIP will be limited to 40 students this year. Students are required to attend all four sessions and will receive a certificate of completion.

FLIP 2022 dates:

• Saturday, July 16 (parent/student orientation)
• Friday, July 22: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Friday, July 29: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Friday, August 5: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Friday, August 12: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Read about last year’s FLIP program, which CMAP held virtually.

FLIP provides a place for students to learn about urban planning as a potential college major, career option, or lifelong interest.

FLIP allows students to:

• Learn about issues facing northeastern Illinois.
• Explore new professions and career paths.
• Meet students from around the region.
• Build their resume and gain valuable hands-on experience.
• Become a better listener, observer, writer, and presenter.
• Learn how to become a community advocate and leader.
• Receive an optional letter of recommendation.
• Receive a certificate of completion.

In order to participate, students must:

• Be enrolled in high school. Students who will be entering high school in Fall 2022 and recent high school graduates (class of '22) are also eligible to apply. 
• Live or study in one of the seven counties of northeastern Illinois (Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties).
• Possess a desire to learn more about the region and our communities.

Online applications are open, and close Monday, June 20, 2022.

Do you have questions or want more information? Contact FLIP’s co-directors at FLIP@cmap.illinois.gov.