Jessica Schmidt is an Urban Specialist with the South Asia Urban Unit at the World Bank, based in Washington, DC. She brings with her expertise in integrated urban planning, sustainable development and transportation planning. Prior to joining the World Bank, Jessica served as a Senior Urban Designer at the Central Planning Office of Qatar, a newly formed ministry designed to coordinate the infrastructure and logistics of the country ahead of the 2022 World Cup and in line with the 2030 National Vision. She has also undertaken academic research and private sector work in Bangkok and New York. Jessica holds a Master in City and Regional Planning from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelors of Arts (Urban Studies) from Columbia University.