James (Jake) Hicks is a Master’s candidate in Urban and Regional Planning at Georgetown University. As an emerging urban planning professional with a strong focus on public transit and sustainable city development, he leverages Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and data - driven policy frameworks to contribute to effective transportation and urban design solutions. His work is driven by a vision to create safe, efficient, and inclusive transportation systems that serve diverse communities and enhance quality of life. He believes that thoughtful urban
planning is pivotal in tackling issues such as congestion, climate change, and socio-economic disparities within urban environments.
Through his studies and professional work, Jake seeks to explore how modern transit systems and urban policies can be designed to foster sustainable growth without compromising accessibility or equity. He aims to address pressing urban challenges by integrating innovative planning, comprehensive research, and human-centric design. With a foundation in both public service and technical expertise, Jake aspires to be at the forefront of shaping cities that are resilient, inclusive, and future-ready.