Mike Dobbins

Mike Dobbins is a Professor of the Practice in the School of City & Regional Planning at the Georgia Institute of Technology, part of the College of Design. He specializes in urban design, integrating policy, design, and implementation to address urban challenges such as wealth inequality, racism, and environmental stewardship. His teaching focuses on empowering communities through planning tools, emphasizing land use, transportation, housing, and economic development.

Prior to academia, Dobbins served as Commissioner of Planning, Development, and Neighborhood Conservation for Atlanta (1996–?), leading efforts to reverse population decline via regulatory and financial reforms tied to the 1996 Olympics legacy. He previously held leadership roles in urban planning agencies in New York City, New Orleans, Birmingham, and UC Berkeley, alongside teaching stints at Tulane, Columbia, and other institutions.

Recognized as a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (FAIA) and Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners (FAICP), he advocates for equitable urban development, emphasizing local community agency in shaping cities that benefit all residents.