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.

Read about last year’s FLIP program.

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

The program is completely free to students, and includes snacks, meals, public transportation to and from sessions, and swag. 

In order to participate, students must:

• Be enrolled in high school. Students who will be entering high school in fall 2023 and recent high school graduates (class of 2023) 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.
• Commit to attending all five FLIP sessions.
  
  

This year’s FLIP program will occur in person for five consecutive weekdays in July. Students are required to attend all five sessions and will receive a certificate of completion.

• When: Monday, July 10, through Friday, July 14, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 
• Where: Students will meet at CMAP's office at the Old Post Office in downtown Chicago (433 W. Van Buren St.).

There also is an optional parent/student orientation on Saturday, July 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

To apply, please complete this application by Tuesday, May 30. 

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

CMAP strives to host an inclusive and accessible program that enables all individuals, including people with disabilities, to engage fully. The CMAP office is wheelchair accessible and includes gender-neutral restrooms.

CMAP is committed to making reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you need an accommodation or have any concerns regarding your ability to participate, please contact FLIP@cmap.illinois.gov.