ACE’s programs rely upon committed, energetic mentor participation. By acting as professional role models, trusted friends and career advisors, mentors make a significant contribution to their communities, while helping to develop the professionals who will lead tomorrow’s building industry. In addition, mentoring presents a variety of networking opportunities, as well as chances to sharpen individual presentation and other professional skills.
Mentors are generally members of a local community in which an ACE affiliate is located. They should also be dedicated industry participants who are passionate about what they do and want to share their enthusiasm with the workforce of the future. In addition, they must be able to establish rapport with students. While this is often easiest for young mentors, mentors of all ages have been very successful. Finally, mentors should be team players willing to dedicate up to 30 hours of their time during the school year.
Usually, mentors come from organizations actively involved in some way with a local affiliate. If you are part of such an organization and want to become a mentor, talk to your ACE coordinator.
