University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's College of Engineering and Computer Science is launching a mentoring program.  

The new program will need mentors for young women in these programs of study:

• Data Science
• Cyber Security
• Engineering Management
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronics

The program will run from August to April, with mentors to invest about one hour per month. There is a mandatory orientation and networking event at UTC campus on the afternoon of Saturday 8/27.

The focus is on helping the student work toward the personal and professional goals she lays out at the start of the relationship and motivating her toward additional goals as needed.

Irene Hillman, Director of Student Success, is leading the mentoring program.  

What makes a good mentor for this new program?

This is what Irene shared, a professional who identifies as a woman and meets the following:

• In the field of study that aligns (at least somewhat) with the student.
• Truly interested in helping someone, is curious about others and is able to open up to them. A great mentor asks lots of questions.
• Organized, and able to meet time commitments as well as create a clear but flexible plan to meet the goals the mentee has set for herself.
• Willing to show their mentee how the field works. Able to open doors by sharing their network as appropriate as well.
• Can build confidence by explaining expectations, preparing them for their experiences in the field, pointing out their strengths, and highlighting their progress.
• Will “challenge with a smile” – after setting expectations, good mentors enforce accountability and provide constructive feedback while remaining approachable.

If interested, please complete a survey.  Irene Hillman will be in touch later.