THP 30: Ryan Gever

Program: Urban & Regional Planning
Current Position: Assistant Project Manager, Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc.
Hometown: Alexandria, VA
LinkedIn: Ryan Gever

What is one thing you would change about your field and why?

If I could change one thing in the field, it would be to make practitioners and stakeholders understand the difference between cost and value. Many admirable visions seem to come to a stop because of sticker shock or concerns of cost. But what many don't understand is that a plan is better evaluated by its value, or the cost measured against its benefit. For example, if cost was the ultimate decision making criteria, then we would never have built America's highway system. But instead, there was a value to connecting our cities through a network of high-speed roadways that justified the costs. If we remain fixated on cost, many of society’s needs will never be invested in again.

Who (or what) has inspired you and how has your life changed as a result?

For several years I worked with a number of DC Public Charter Schools to help them lease and redevelop vacant DC Public School facilities across the city. During this period, I was constantly in awe and admiration of the dedication, humility, and optimism seen in the charter school leaders who tirelessly persevered to inch closer towards their better vision of tomorrow. Working alongside these inspirational individuals taught me the importance and value of seeking out professional opportunities that will allow you to push towards your better vision of tomorrow.