Frank Turner, FAICP
James Sasser: First, can you tell us a little about your professional background and what drew you to the multi-disciplinary fields of planning, design, and preservation?
Frank Turner: I came to the field of
planning through the backdoor. I started college in 1969, a time when most
college programs and students were not focused on professional development. Students
were exposed to a wide range of disciplines with the aim of preparing for life
and not a job. I received a B.S. and M.A. in Sociology. During graduate school
at the University of Memphis, I worked for the city preparing profiles of
neighborhoods that would become target areas for the Community Development
Block Grant Program. I was later hired by Knoxville to do similar work. Through
self-study and the mentorship of great “professionally trained” planners, I
passed the first written AICP exam. While I would have benefitted from
attending a graduate planning program, I still value the generalist perspective
of the liberal arts.
J.S.: I’m sure a lot of our student members would like to know what you enjoy most about your day-to-day work, and in so, do you have any advice for future planners and designers?
F.T.: Diversity of experience and collaboration made my career rewarding. I’ve worked on housing programs, comprehensive plans, small area studies, zoning, development review, major thoroughfare plans, subways, historic preservation, economic development, redevelopment, cultural districts and much more. I have worked with the best planners, architects, engineers and other professionals that contribute to making cities great. I’ve also worked with outstanding city administrators, appointed and elected officials, civic leaders and developers. I’ve had many successes, challenges and disappointments, but I’ve never been bored. Being a generalist is highly satisfying.
J.S.: The FAICP designation is a huge deal in the field of planning (congratulations!), is FAICP something you had strived for, or is it something that happened unexpectedly?
F.T.: I was elected to the College of Fellows in 2000. The Texas Chapter submitted my nomination without my knowledge. So yes, it was a great surprise and tremendous honor. I believe the program serves the profession by not only recognizing the careers and accomplishments of planners, it promotes mentorship that is critical to professional development. My only regret is the program unavoidably overlooks too many of our peers that are equally deserving of recognition.
J.S.: Has becoming a fellow changed your perspective on the field of planning and design?
F.T.: Yes, in two major ways. First, FAICP speaks well to the diversity of the profession. We are often asked, “What does a planner do?” A quick survey of the skills, talents, and responsibilities of FAICP members tells us the question is not easily answered. The College also provides a tremendous resource for networking.
J.S.: How do you see the future of the built environment? Are there any trends or practices that you strongly believe in?
F.T.: The future of the built
environment is dark, but there are rays of hope. We have failed to adequately
communicate the enormity of the challenges the world faces. The fundamental
social, economic and political environments are worsening and overwhelming the
prospect for a sustainable planet. Still,
major advancements are being made in the theory, technology and practice of
development. Although our challenges are global, it is highly important we recognize
individual local successes. APA’s Great Places in America program provides very
useful examples of best practices.
J.S.: Lastly, what is something that most people don’t know about you?
F.T.: These may seem strange and contradictory. I repeated the second grade and I’m an Eagle Scout. The first shows never be misled by stumbles and setbacks. The other shows the power of family, friends and mentors.