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Collarini’s Expertise
I graduated with a degree in Architecture from the Politecnico di Milano, specializing in urban planning. I also hold a PhD in Territorial and Environmental Planning from La Sapienza University in Rome.
After graduating, I began working in the Department of Territorial Sciences at the Politecnico di Milano. Over eight years, I supported teaching, conducted research across various areas of the discipline, collaborated on external projects, and worked in different regions of Italy. This period was intense, rich, complex, and inspiring.
My engagement in research allowed me to explore various aspects of the field, build a network of connections, develop ideas, and write articles and books. Working with students enhanced my skills in managing relationships, navigating complex activities, and focusing on achieving results. The hands-on experiences I gained helped me apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.
Another significant experience was in public administration, where I started as a technician and gradually advanced to high management. This diverse background has allowed me to expand my range of activities and broaden my network of contacts. My career growth has equipped me to integrate theories with practical tools effectively.
Leading the Way in the Concept of 'Smart Cities’
The concept of a "smart city" is broad. In Milan, we can identify several key issues: innovation and urban economy, mobility, security and cybersecurity, and the use of territorial data. In 2014, the Municipal Council approved the "Guidelines for Milano Smart City."
According to these guidelines, a smart city should not only enhance its technological capabilities but also promote economic development and social inclusion, innovation, training, research, and public participation.
The document is organized into seven main points:
1. Global city, national and European laboratory
2. Sustainable urban mobility workshop
3. Environmental and energy policy laboratory
4. Social inclusion and diversity workshop
5. Wellness workshop in the city
6. Simplification workshop for public administration
7. Enterprise Generation Workshop
Recent important projects include the establishment of the Smart City Lab, an incubator aimed at boosting innovation among enterprises, and the development of a digital twin of the city.
By adopting an integrated approach, some of these projects have been aligned with urban planning and overall urban regeneration processes.
Overseeing City Operations and Managing the City’s Budget
The administrative and technical organization of the Municipality of Milan is quite complex. From my perspective, I have a broad understanding of this structure, as urban regeneration involves many components. My specific unit, one of the largest in the municipality, plays a crucial role in generating economic resources from various building fees.
These financial resources fund a significant portion of the public works program. Additionally, they are used directly by private developers to undertake public works related to specific urban private projects.
