How do you keep your land development skills and knowledge up to date and relevant?

1 Join professional associations

One of the best ways to network, learn, and share with other land developers is to join professional associations that cater to your niche and interests. For example, you can join the Urban Land Institute (ULI), the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), or the American Planning Association (APA). These associations offer various benefits, such as publications, webinars, events, courses, certifications, and advocacy.

2 Follow industry news and blogs

Another way to keep yourself informed and updated on the latest developments and innovations in land development is to follow industry news and blogs. You can subscribe to newsletters, podcasts, magazines, or websites that cover topics related to land development, such as design, planning, engineering, sustainability, finance, marketing, and legal issues. Some examples of reliable sources are Land Development Today, Land Development Magazine, and Planetizen.

3 Take online courses and webinars

Online courses and webinars are convenient and affordable ways to enhance your land development skills and knowledge. You can find a variety of online courses and webinars on platforms like Udemy, Coursera, edX, or Skillshare that cover topics such as land use planning, site analysis, infrastructure design, stormwater management, environmental impact assessment, real estate development, and project management. You can also earn certificates or credentials that can boost your resume and credibility.

4 Attend conferences and workshops

Conferences and workshops are great opportunities to learn from experts, peers, and mentors in the land development field. You can attend conferences and workshops that are organized by professional associations, academic institutions, or industry organizations. You can also participate in panel discussions, breakout sessions, case studies, site tours, and networking events. Some examples of popular conferences and workshops are the ULI Fall Meeting, the NAHB International Builders' Show, and the APA National Planning Conference.

5 Seek feedback and mentorship

Feedback and mentorship are essential for improving your land development skills and knowledge. You can seek feedback from your clients, colleagues, supervisors, or consultants on your projects, proposals, designs, or strategies. You can also seek mentorship from experienced and successful land developers who can offer you guidance, advice, support, and insights. You can find mentors through your professional associations, online platforms, or personal connections.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?