Mentorship gives everyone chance for growth

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Bill McNew
  • 10th Air Base Wing superintendent
U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. --  There's no question, I would not be a chief today if it weren't for my first mentor in the Air Force. The year was 1986. I was stationed at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Ariz.

I was a young technical sergeant without a plan -- somewhat stagnant -- and not really concerned with where I'd be in five, 10, or 15 years. The group superintendent, a chief, took an interest in me and gave me direction.

He stressed the importance of professional military education and obtained a short-notice slot at the Military Airlift Command NCO Academy for me. He stressed the importance of continuing my off-duty education and obtaining a bachelor's degree. Finally, he told me what it would take for me to continuously get promoted. His guidance changed my life forever -- the true value of mentorship!

I have always felt that mentorship is not a program, it's a responsibility. Since the inception of the Air Force in September 1947, people have helped others become successful through mentorship.

Most supervisors have heard the term mentorship or maybe they think they've been doing it all along as part of their good supervision. Ask any airman if he or she has a mentor. You may be surprised by the answer.

Take a moment and think of individuals who have helped you achieve success. Who was the one person you would go to when you had questions concerning promotion, off-duty education, upgrade training, professional military education, assignment possibilities, or whether you should stay in the Air Force?

Mentoring is necessary to ensure those who eventually assume leadership roles have the skills needed to successfully complete the mission. Mentorship and supervision are ideal when used together. It provides an opportunity to make positive differences, enhance relationships, and accomplish mission goals and objectives. A mentor should help establish goals and be there to help the mentored achieve those goals, identify the individual's strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes. A mentor helps capitalize on strengths and improve weak areas.

To be a mentor, set an example for others to follow. In doing so, you earn respect and trust. Next, make yourself available. Be visible. Once you've established a relationship and begun mentoring, ask yourself from time to time if you are guiding, helping, and preparing the person you're mentoring for the future.

Mentorship is a responsibility. However, mentors become better communicators, gain valued interpersonal experience, enhance working relationships and achieve mission objectives in the process. They also help to foster a great working environment, motivate employees, and create relationships where communication is open and honest should be a goal.

The very essence of mentoring is to make a positive difference in the lives of others.