2012 industry night a success for planning students

The University of Queensland’s Organisation of Planning Students (OOPS) welcomed industry leaders to their professional networking event on Thursday, August 9.

“Industry Night offers both students and professionals of the planning profession an excellent opportunity to network, and discuss contemporary issues relevant to the planning industry,” said Mr Nathan Bambling, President of OOPS.

The event was attended by almost 100 students currently studying in the fields of urban and regional planning at UQ, as well as representatives from nine renowned organisations within the field of planning including Urbis, Brisbane City Council, RPS Group and THG.

Drawing on the experience of these organisations, a panel forum was held to discuss contemporary planning issues such as the creation of sustainable mining communities, Brisbane’s new City Plan and designing for child and youth friendly cites.

“Events like this are not easy to organise and I have been impressed at the level of professionalism exhibited by the students,” said Ms Stephanie Wyeth from Urbis.

“Urbis is very pleased to be here to encourage a new generation of planners into the profession," she said.

The night also included a speed networking session, where students were able to meet with the companies and discuss each firms’ day-to-day responsibilities and what they are looking for in new graduates.

“Every company is different. They work on different projects, at different scales, and in differing sectors. It is important that students realise exactly what opportunities are out there,” Mr Bambling said.

“OOPS Industry Night provides students with the chance to form contacts within the planning industry, in a professional setting, that will ease their transition from university in to the workforce."

For more information on OOPS, visit http://www.gpem.uq.edu.au/student-groups