Charlie Cowell
Urban planner, RDG Planning & Design
Age: 37
Education: University of Iowa: Master’s in urban and regional planning; University of Northern Iowa: Bachelor’s in economics, minor in finance
Wife: Meredith Kaiser
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Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.
I have served on the Iowa Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA) Board of Directors since 2014 and held numerous leadership roles, including professional development officer, awards chair, sponsorship chair and conference planning committee member.
I have spoken at over 10 state and regional conferences and events on community housing strategies, including the Polk County Housing Trust Fund Housing Symposium and Housing Iowa Conference.
I am part of the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute Class of 2026.
I am a mentor for younger urban planners entering the profession.
What’s an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?
Going way back to my first day of my first class at UNI – economics with F. Abraham. He was a great professor who introduced me to how society makes choices. Then, eventually, that led me to discover urban planning as the medium through which I could use economics to help people
What’s one decision you made early in your career that had an outsized impact?
To stay in Iowa for college, then accept my first job in Sioux City. Starting in a smaller area like Sioux City allowed me to influence local leaders and build a network almost immediately. Outside of Iowa, I would likely have started my career in a big city and struggled to build a network as quickly as I did in Iowa.
What are your aspirations for the future?
There are so many opportunities that have framed where I am today that I could not have predicted. I aspire to expose myself to new opportunities and not be complacent, as long as I can continue to bring value to communities.
What are you still working on to improve as a leader?
Continuing to see multiple sides or positions on an issue or conflict amid increasing polarization. It is getting harder and harder to put yourself in someone else’s frame of thinking. This is a continuous practice that I try to improve every year.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a young professional?
Educate yourself before jumping to conclusions. Avoid complaining without action. Ask: Who else will do it if not you?
What’s one regular habit that’s made you successful?
Not being the first to speak. It helps me not jump to conclusions, say the first thing that comes to mind and ensure my contributions are deliberate, thoughtful and aligned with my logic.
What’s one outdated way of thinking that you’d like to challenge?
Maybe not outdated thinking – but understanding that thriving communities aren’t always the largest or most resourced. They’re the ones with engaged residents and community champions who push for progress and embrace change. Meaningful change doesn’t start at the statehouse, or even city council chambers; it starts on your block.
What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
Inclusivity is an easy issue to voice, but not all will address. It will get more challenging as Central Iowa’s growth brings new pressures. People need the opportunity to live comfortably through affordable housing, mobility options, accessible day care, access to nature and more. Inclusive policies strengthen us by allowing people to stay local through life’s transitions, from young professionals to aging seniors. The question needs to be asked in every decision.
What’s one fun fact about you?
I have visited over a third of Iowa’s 900-plus municipalities (and not just driving through on the highway).
Hobbies: Running, or really any exercise; spending time in Union Park with my wife and dog; adjunct instructor in economics (yes, for fun).
What is one word that best describes you?
Consistent.
What’s one food you think people must try in the Des Moines area?
The Tea Leaf Salad at MinGaLaBar Burmese Kitchen on Douglas Ave in Urbandale.
What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?
I realized I’m slowly becoming a birder.
What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?
Drake Relays/Road Races Week.
What is your go-to snack?
Peanut butter.