AECOM has decided to adopt the TPS Professional Development Scheme, PDS, which is used by most of the leading consultants.

AECOM’s decision was based on two key factors.  Firstly, they will be recruiting a significant number of graduates over the next two years and recognise that offering a well defined route to the TPP qualification is an excellent way of providing structured professional development for their younger staff, particularly in an increasingly competitive market place in which international consultancy will play an ever more significant part.  Secondly, AECOM see the TPP qualification as “the only professional qualification dedicated to transport planning and its award marks out those with it as professionals in the field.  Ensuring our transport planners can obtain the TPP is an important value-add to our clients, and it is something they will increasingly look for in the future.”

Although AECOM have “always recognised the importance of qualifications and have supported our employees working towards the TPP, we have now committed to embedding the TPS PDS into our GUIDE training academy, which comprises a number of graduate training schemes for different professional qualifications.”

The TPS PDS will be overseen by Kate Morris, an AECOM Director with specific responsibility for the development of skills and knowledge within the Transport Planning discipline.  Kate comments “I strongly believe that the structured platform that the Professional Development Scheme brings will enable AECOM to offer both new graduates and existing transport planners within our business a clear path to professional accreditation.”

Martin Richards TPP, the Society’s Director of Skills, said ”it is very encouraging that at a time when the profession is under great pressure, a major company such as AECOM should make a real commitment to professional development, and to the TPP qualification”.