Yichen Chen holds a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor’s in Journalism and Media Studies from Rutgers University (with a minor in Geography) – a background that prepared her to be a well-rounded planner with a unique blend of technical planning skills and communication experience. In her role as a Transportation Planner with AECOM in Michigan for the past 7 years, Yichen’s work spans transit planning, corridor studies, and public engagement. She specializes in translating detailed plans into compelling stories and visual representations through her skills of data analysis, mapping, and graphic design.

Yichen grew up in Chongqing, China – she has been a world-traveler during her school years, and now proudly calls Michigan home. Having used all sorts of transportation modes in her daily life, she is happy to bring her experience and work in transportation today to support a more inclusive and effective transportation system for all. Outside of work, you are most likely to find her taking walks with her dog, paddleboarding on a lake, enjoying a loud concert, or growing roses in her backyard.