Connections and insights from a first-time conferencegoer
By Edward Huynh, Associate Editor, November 5, 2025
The APA California 2025 Conference, Waves of Change: Reconnecting Communities, fostered community, continuous learning, and, for better or worse, an abundance of ocean-themed puns. With sessions spanning topics from zoning reform and equitable development to climate resilience and innovative transportation, the conference offered planners a space to learn, connect, and share in the collective spirit of the profession.
This year marked my first time attending an APA California annual conference, and it was everything I hoped for and more. I met planners from across California—each with their own story of how they found their way into the field—and discovered that, for many of us, professional growth often begins with the courage to step outside our comfort zones.
For Carlina Rose, Planning Technician with the City of Alameda and Co-Director of APA California–Northern’s Awards Program, the conference was an opportunity to see the planning community in action. “I’ve volunteered in the past and knew the expectations,” she said, “but the process ran very smoothly thanks to the Host Committee and volunteers.”
Her most memorable moment occurred during a Spanish-language session, where she found herself relying on a translator to follow the conversation. “It was eye-opening to depend on someone else for information—it gave me new insight into what community members experience when they rely on translation to participate.” Looking ahead, Carlina hopes to attend more unrecorded sessions and carve out extra time for networking.
For Annie Jones, a graduate student in San José State University’s Master of Urban Planning program, the conference was both an educational and personal journey. “I was hoping to learn about topics that haven’t yet made it into the classroom,” she said. “It was great to see a session about Fort Ord—being a CSU Monterey Bay alum, it’s a place close to my heart.”
Annie also appreciated the social side of the event. “I was surprised by how many gatherings happened outside of sessions. It was wonderful to see people connect outside a purely professional setting.” Like many attendees, she plans to spend more time in the Exhibitor’s Hall next year to explore potential career connections.
William Cord, also a MUP student at SJSU and a returning conference-goer, was excited to learn from the wide variety of panels and to meet planners at all stages of their careers. “The breadth of session topics gave me a chance to explore my focus areas and develop new interests,” he shared.
Still, his favorite memory came beyond the sessions: “Trying to hunt down Monty-Rey for a photo with my friends was definitely a highlight!” Looking to next year, William hopes to step even further out of his comfort zone. “I’d like to make more new acquaintances, both personally and professionally. Everyone here has so much to offer.”
As for me, I echo much of what others have shared, though I’d add one key takeaway: wear comfortable shoes. My stylish, but impractical, footwear may have earned me compliments and a few business cards, but it also led to a barefoot walk back to the hotel. Next time, I’ll also come prepared with a fun elevator pitch—it’s the easiest way to start conversations and make meaningful connections.
Across all these reflections, a few key themes emerged: curiosity, connection, and courage. Whether it’s speaking up during a panel, introducing yourself to someone new, or simply embracing the chance to have a “whale of a time,” the conference invited all of us to grow just a little beyond our shells.
The 2025 APA California conference was more than a professional event—it was a reminder that planning is, at its core, a collaborative pursuit. It happens through conversation, creativity, and yes, even the occasional bad pun.
