This post is sponsored by the Professional Standards Board
This year, the Professional Standards Board (PSB) generously supported the CIP Emerging Leaders Program, with a focus on participants’ experience at FUSION 2026, CIP/OUQ’s national planning conference. We caught up with Phae Eckhart, Executive Director of the PSB, to hear more about their commitment to professional development and their conference experience.
Can you tell us a bit about the Professional Standards Board and what you do?
The PSB develops the national standards for certification and accreditation for the planning profession in Canada. We operate under shared services agreements with CIP and the seven participating PTIAs, according to guidelines determined as part of the Planning for the Future (PFF) project.
Why did you choose to support the Emerging Leaders Program?
Our organization believes that investing in early-career professionals is one of the most effective ways to strengthen the future of the planning profession. Individuals at the beginning of their careers often have the greatest potential to grow through mentorship, networking, and exposure to new ideas, yet they may face financial or access barriers to professional development opportunities.
Supporting attendance at the PSB program was a meaningful initiative because we want to support the development of future leaders and foster a more connected, knowledgeable, and inclusive professional community. By supporting the Emerging Leaders program, we aimed to equip them with practical skills, valuable industry relationships, and greater confidence to contribute to their organizations and the broader profession.
We see this investment not only as benefiting the individual participants, but also as creating long-term value for the organizations and communities they serve.
What impact do you think this program had on participants?
The Emerging Leaders Program has the potential to create lasting impact by equipping Planners with the leadership skills, industry knowledge, and professional networks needed to thrive. Beyond supporting individual career growth, the program empowers participants to bring increased confidence and new perspectives back to their organizations and communities. By investing in emerging leaders today, we are helping build a stronger, more innovative, and more resilient planning profession for the future.
Interested in becoming a certified planner?
PSB offers several pathways to certification for aspiring and current planners in Canada.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, an experienced planner, or exploring your options for becoming a Registered Professional Planner (RPP)/Licensed Professional Planner (LPP), the certification process includes pathways designed to recognize different educational and professional backgrounds, including accredited degree and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) pathways.
Visit the PSB website to learn more about the RPP certification process, eligibility requirements, pathways to certification, and how to get started on your journey toward becoming a planner.
Become a Mentor or Sponsor with the PSB
PSB is actively seeking dedicated volunteers to fill the important roles of Mentor and Sponsor. These positions not only help develop future professionals but also strengthen the integrity of our profession.
As a Mentor, you will play an essential role in guiding and supporting a Candidate member who is working towards fulfilling their practical work experience requirements. This involves offering valuable collegial advice, sharing your insights and expertise, and assisting them as they navigate the challenges of progressing toward Full Membership as a Registered Professional Planner.
In the role of a Sponsor, you will have the important responsibility of reviewing and validating a Candidate member’s practical work experience. This includes ensuring that the experience aligns with the standards and requirements set forth by our profession.