For Secretary/Treasurer

Eric Frederick, AICP

Candidate Statement

Technology is a crucial medium in support of the planning process at all levels. Technology access and use, however, are also critical to increasing the economic success and competitiveness of communities. Planners play a key role in not only being exemplary users of technology in support of planning efforts, but in the inclusion of technology as an element of focus in the planning process.

Eric Frederick is the Program Manager for Connect Michigan, a non-profit organization tasked with facilitating the expansion of broadband access, adoption, and use throughout the state. In that role, Eric leads a diverse team of professionals to increase Michigan's broadband capacity, mapping, research, and technical assistance. The majority of his work, however, is concentrated on local and regional broadband and technology planning efforts. Eric's team gathers local stakeholders, assesses technology opportunities and gaps, and assists and empowers communities to develop an action plan to position themselves, and the state, at the forefront of the digital economy. Local planning efforts are underway in more than twenty communities.

Prior to joining Connect Michigan, Eric worked for LSL Planning, Inc. as a Project Planner, helping numerous communities with GIS, master planning, zoning, and public engagement. He holds a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from Michigan State University and a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Planning and a minor in Geographic Information Systems from Northern Michigan University.

Eric's volunteer activities include the Michigan Association of Planning Conference Committee and a member of the Michigan Economic Developers Association Young Professionals Committee. Eric also holds several positions with the City of Portland, Michigan including the Main Street Design Committee, Zoning Board of Appeals, Board of Review, and Economic Development Corporation.