Student Life  

Career Mentorship

The NAIT Career Mentorship Program connects students with experienced industry professionals to provide meaningful guidance and support for their career growth. Rooted in NAIT’s polytechnic approach, the program fosters mentor-mentee relationships that help students gain career readiness, expand their professional networks, and develop critical soft skills essential for career development.

Our goal is to empower students to confidently navigate their career paths and transition from the academic setting to the professional world. We strive to create lasting mentor-mentee relationships that continue to support students even after they leave NAIT.

black woman and asian woman engaged in mentorship

Activities that may be covered in mentorship meetings

  • Share information: Mentors will share information about working in the field and current events or issues facing the industry.
  • Schedule a job shadow visit: If appropriate, a mentor may bring their mentee to a work meeting, training session, or other on-the-job activity.
  • Discuss work samples: Mentees can share a sample of their work and request feedback from their mentor. Mentors may also be interested in sharing their own work with their mentee.
  • Prepare for job searches: Mentors may review resumes and cover letters, provide guidance on where to look for jobs and internships, help identify the skills the employer is looking for, and provide tips when preparing for job interviews.
  • Networking support: Mentors may provide guidance on connecting with other professionals in your field.
  •  Goal Setting: Discuss professional and personal goals, how to set SMART goals, and ways to achieve them.

Program roles

NAIT’s Career Mentorship Program includes mentors who bring professional expertise from industry and student mentees seeking advice and support to grow their career.

Mentee role

Mentees are NAIT students enrolled in any degree or diploma program who are interested in enhancing their career with mentorship.

Mentee Criteria

This program is for students currently enrolled in degree and diploma programs at NAIT. This is the first year of the program, and we will be looking to expand to all DDCP students in the future.

Mentee Expectations

In our career mentorship program, mentees are encouraged to actively engage with their mentors, setting clear and achievable goals together. Regularly reflecting on their progress and sharing their successes helps build a strong mentor-mentee relationship. Mentees are also invited to provide thoughtful feedback and show appreciation for their mentor's guidance. Embracing new perspectives, being attentive in communications, and taking responsibility for their actions are key aspects of the program. This supportive environment is designed to foster growth and learning for everyone involved.

Mentee Role

In our mentorship program, mentees play a multifaceted role as learners, leaders, and teachers. As active learners, they are encouraged to absorb valuable insights from their mentors, remaining open and eager to learn. Taking on the role of a leader, mentees should guide the agenda by clarifying their goals and the type of guidance they seek, while also initiating and maintaining communication. This proactive approach ensures that the mentorship is beneficial and easy for the mentor to support. Additionally, mentees are invited to share their own knowledge and experiences, enriching the relationship by giving back to their mentors. This dynamic role fosters a collaborative and growth-oriented environment for both parties.

Mentee Benefits

Becoming a mentee in the Career Mentorship Program offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance personal and professional growth.  

  • Gain valuable insights into industry
  • Build professional connections
  • Develop career readiness skills
  • Increase confidence in transitioning from NAIT into career paths

Interested in becoming a Mentee in the NAIT Career Mentorship Program?

Login to MyNAIT to apply today 

Mentor role

The mentor role is open to all NAIT alumni, NAIT employer partners, and community members that meet the mentor criteria.

Mentor Criteria

  • At least 1 year of full-time professional work experience in a related field.
  • Willingness to volunteer 1 hour per week throughout a 12-week period, Sept-December or Jan-April.
  • Mentors should be able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. This includes the ability to listen actively, provide constructive feedback, and articulate ideas clearly.
  • Mentors should demonstrate a genuine interest in helping students grow professionally. This includes being patient, supportive, and willing to invest time and effort into the mentoring relationship.
  • Mentors should approach the mentoring relationship with enthusiasm and a positive mindset.
  • Mentors should be sensitive to and respectful of the diverse backgrounds and experiences of mentees. This includes understanding and valuing different perspectives and fostering an inclusive mentoring environment.

Mentor Expectations

  • Meet with their mentee for a minimum of 1 hour per week, September – December or January – April
  • Be encouraging, patient and friendly
  • Help build their mentee’s confidence
  • Help their mentee stay motivated and accountable to their goals
  • Attend the kick-off event as this is typically your first meeting!
  • Complete occasional program surveys (maximum 2 per year)

Mentor Role

As a mentor, you will take on different roles when working with your mentee. These roles can be anything from a sounding board, advisor, role model, resource person, teacher, champion, confidante, coach and even friend. The roles you play as a mentor do not happen all at once, and some might not even happen at all. What is important, is that you are there to support your mentee!

The mentor’s role does not include the following:

  • A job placement program/personal recruiter
  •  A counsellor or therapist
  •  A tutor
  • A magician, mind-reader, or decision-maker

Mentor Benefits

Participation in the NAIT Career Mentorship Program provides mentors with valuable skills and opportunities for professional and personal growth.

  • Develop and enhance skills in leadership, communication, and coaching
  • Improve personal performance
  • Enhance your self-awareness
  • Grow personally and professionally
  • Learn something new from their mentee (reverse mentorship)
  • Develop an affinity to your community

Interested in becoming a Mentor in the NAIT Career Mentorship Program?

Submit an application today 

How we match Mentees and Mentors:

Mentors and mentees are matched by comparing information provided in their applications and matching industry, interests, location, and other factors. Matches are ranked based on compatibility and each participant is provided with the other’s contact information.

two women giving a high five

Additional mentorship & peer programs at NAIT

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Student Life  

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If you have any additional questions please send us an email.

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