Future Leaders in Planning (FLiP)
About
FLiP 2026 is a FREE program that runs June 8-12 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (June 12 is a half-day and will end at noon). The program includes meals, snacks, tours, and more!
Designed as an opportunity for high school students to explore urban planning as a potential career, FLiP offers a broad exposure to planning.
Through a series of speakers, interactive planning activities, and tours on foot, bus, streetcar, and boat, FLiP provides:
- The chance to network with and learn from planning professionals in the planning and related government services fields in the public and private sectors, as well as connect with other students with a passion for planning for a thriving future for our community
- Broad exposure to planning from multiple perspectives, including comprehensive planning, economic development, environmental, historic preservation, community redevelopment, transportation, geographic information systems, safety, education, research and more
Since its inception in 2016, the Planning Commission’s Future Leaders in Planning program has been a huge hit with students and parents alike. Traditionally, urban planning is a subject students are not exposed to until college or graduate school. FLiP changes that and addresses educational pathways to the career, inspiring future planners.
All Hillsborough County Public School students in good standing in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply, including private or homeschooled high school students.
Our sponsors
How to Apply
The FLiP 2026 applications will open on Monday, February 2, 2026. Keep an eye on this space for more information!
plan’ning
noun. The activity or profession of determining the future physical arrangement or condition of a community. Planning, also called urban planning or city and regional planning, is a dynamic profession that works to improve the welfare of people and their communities by creating more convenient, healthful, efficient, and attractive places for present and future generations. Planning helps communities envision their future and find the right balance of new development, essential services, environmental protection, and innovative change.
Past Programs
2025
From June 9–13, 2025, a group of Hillsborough County high school students got a hands-on introduction to urban planning through a dynamic week-long experience. The program offered a behind-the-scenes look at how cities are shaped, from the policies and plans behind them to the real-world projects in progress. Throughout the week, students gained valuable insights into how thoughtful planning helps communities grow and thrive. They were left inspired to think critically about the future of the places they call home. Check out the 2025 photos!
2024
Summer 2024 was filled with learning and exploration at this year’s FLiP and FLiP Jr. programs! FLiP gave high school students an in-depth look at urban planning through field trips and projects. Both groups had the chance to hear from experts and design their own urban spaces. Check out the 2024 photos!
2023
Students enjoyed four days of great field trips, excellent speakers, and interactive group projects. The FLiP 2023 program ran from May 30 – June 2. Check out the 2023 recap!
2022
After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, FLiP 2022 welcomed high school students from throughout Hillsborough County back on May 31 – June 3. For the first time, participants included home and virtual school students. This year, exciting new planning adventures and activities were added to the jam-packed itinerary. Check out the 2022 recap and Facebook photos.
2019
On June 4 – June 7, the Planning Commission held our fourth annual Future Leaders in Planning (FLiP) student leadership development program. A big hit with the students, mentors, and parents alike, FLiP offered a broad exposure to planning from both public and private sector perspectives across many fields. The students flourished while networking with professionals, collaborating in teams, and honing their presentation and public speaking skills. Check out the 2019 recap and Facebook photos.
2018
On May 29 – June 1, 2018, the Planning Commission held our third annual Future Leaders in Planning student leadership development program. FLiP 2018 expanded to a four-day program with 21 students invited to participate. Check out the 2018 recap and Facebook photos.
2017
On May 31, 2017, the Planning Commission kicked off FLiP 2017, our Future Leaders in Planning student leadership development program. In just its second year, the annual FLiP program expanded from nine to eighteen students and from a two-day to a three-day intensive program. Check out the 2017 recap and Facebook photos.
2016
On June 21, 2016, the Planning Commission welcomed the inaugural class to our Future Leaders in Planning (FLiP) student leadership development program. The first year, FLiP was a two-day intensive program with nine students. Check out the 2016 recap and Facebook photos.