What's the job description of a project planner?

I'm curious about what a project planner does for work. If I want to pursue a career in this field after high school, what skills or education should I focus on now?

A project planner is fundamentally responsible for overseeing and executing the various activities that contribute to the successful completion of a project. They liaise with various stakeholders including project managers, team members, and clients to establish timelines, agendas, and project tasks, allocate resources, as well as monitor and report the project's progress.

Some of their major tasks include:

1. Drafting detailed and feasible project plans.

2. Organizing, attending, and participating in meetings.

3. Documenting and following up on important actions and decisions made in meetings.

4. Ensuring project deadlines are met.

5. Providing administrative support, when necessary, and carrying out necessary project management duties.

As for skills and education, strong organizational capabilities, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities are all critical. It's advised to develop a strong foundation in math and science, as well as in business and management if your high school curriculum offers it. Effective communication is another crucial skill, as project planners often work in teams and need to liaise with various stakeholders.

At the college level, a degree in business management, project management, engineering, or a related field would be beneficial. Additionally, many project planners gain certification from recognized organizations such as the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Finally, consider getting involved in extracurricular activities that promote teamwork, planning, and leadership. This can provide practical experience that can be valuable in a project planning role, as well as demonstrate dedication to learning and developing these skills.