Meet Ethan Wiggins
Major: Urban Studies - Urban/Regional Planning
Graduation Date: Fall 2023
Internship Placement: Transit and Mobility Intern (Vision Zero), City of Cleveland’s Planning Department
Ethan worked as a Vision Zero Intern for the City of Cleveland’s Planning Department. Ethan's internship focused on the Vision Zero Action Plan, which aims to eliminate serious injuries and deaths from crashes on Cleveland's roads. Here is what he had to say about his experience:
How did you learn about the internship opportunity?
I learned about this opportunity through my UST 418 professor at CSU.
How long did you intern there?
I accepted the position in October of 2022 and have been working there since.
Tell us a little bit about your position and specifically what you did there.
My internship was focused on the Vision Zero Action Plan that Cleveland adopted in late summer of 2022. This action plan seeks to eliminate serious injuries and deaths from crashes on Cleveland’s roads through clear, measurable strategies to provide safe, healthy, and equitable mobility for all. I supported the Senior Strategist for Transit and Mobility in conducting safety-related data analysis, including crash reports, near-miss reports, speed and traffic counts; conducting research and evaluating pilot installations to inform the creation of a citywide traffic calming policy; participating in meetings with other City of Cleveland departments, stakeholders, and community members; and advancing other Vision Zero priority actions as assigned.
What's one thing you learned about the City of Cleveland/Planning Department that you didn't know prior to your internship?
One thing that I learned at the City of Cleveland is how many interconnected departments there are in city hall. The City Planning Commission is just one piece of a greater system.
What was your favorite project? Why?
My favorite project so far has been working on the Speed Table Pilot Program. This program, which started in Fall of 2022, analyzes the effectiveness of traffic calming structures on residential roads. The reason this project has been my favorite is the importance of both quantitative and qualitative data to better inform further expansion of the program. I get to see the effectiveness of quantitative data such as actual vehicle speed reductions while simultaneously using qualitative data such as communication with residents and stakeholders.
What skills did you learn, sharpen, or improve?
This experience enabled me to acquire and enhance various skills. I was able to improve upon everything from developing my hard skills such as GIS and data analysis to more soft skills like experience in navigating a bureaucratic system or improving my communication efficiency.
What surprised or challenged you?
My biggest surprise was just how important every task was. Working in a department such as City Planning has a significant impact on the Cleveland area. Although it was a daunting task, it also gave me a sense of pride in the work that I contributed to.
What advice do you have for current interns or students who are searching for an internship?
Engage in your internship by asking questions and becoming involved in as many aspects of the work as possible.
What's next for you?
I am continuing with the City of Cleveland until my graduation. Afterwards, I hope to continue my career in the public sector specifically through a city’s planning commission, Community Development Corporation, or Metropolitan Planning Organization.
Anything else you want to include?
A quick shoutout to my supervisor, Calley Mersmann. Her guidance through this internship has tremendously impacted my understanding of urban planning and has solidified my love for the field.