Mentor Program

"As an AbilITy Connection mentor, I have learned much from my relationships with my proteges and hope that they have shareed the same benefit. Their successes give me cause to celebrate that I would not otherwise have enjoyed."
    - Ray Otto, Problem Management, IT Service Desk, WE Energies

Upon entrance into the AbilITy Connection program, students are linked with mentors that share similar interests. Mentors provide friendship, guidance and business experience to the students. The support mentors provide, helps students gain confidence while in school and provides insight into the business world. The mentor program is a complimentary, career-enhancing opportunity that supplements the formal educational process. Students and mentors meet individually and in groups to discuss ideas and share experiences.

Click here for a one-page summary on Why Be a Mentor?

Qualities Mentors Possess

Mentors possess the following qualities.

  • Good listener
  • Self-confident
  • Open-minded
  • Able to initiate consistent contact
  • Good communicator
  • Possess general knowledge of Information Technology industry
  • Demonstrate mutual respect
  • Possess desire/motivation
  • Enthusiasm

Mentor Role

  • Offer insight on the "unwritten" rules and regulations of the business world.
  • Participate in group forums with students and BAC mentors
  • Provide career expectations/objectives from a business perspective
  • Serve as a role model
  • Assist student with career direction, possibilities and choices within the Information Technology field
  • Serve as a resource for feedback
  • Meet with student to discuss academic issues, career progress and course selection
  • Submit monthly status report to AbilITy Coordinator on progress with student
  • Attend AbilITty Connection sponsored events as schedule allows
  • Attend group meetings and AbilITty Connection Forum

Testimonials

"The AbilITy Connection mentoring program was a morale booster for me!  It gave me confidence in myself and my abilities in IT."

Dave Lenheim
AbilITy Connection Graduate
Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin