In 2024, 133 industry professionals mentored UTS Engineering and IT students. Join us in 2025 for a more gender equitable future.

Lucy mentors and mentee 2022

UTS student, Jannat, with her Dell Technologies mentors Melissa and Beverly. Photo credit: Kwa Nguyen.

The value of mentoring

 

  • Gender equity - Increases retention in STEM careers and diversity in the workforce which results to greater innovation and productivity benefits
  • Giving back –“It felt good that I was able to give back to the community. I learned new ways of working, thinking and presenting from my mentee. Thank you" – Mentor
  • Leadership development – Mentors gain tools and techniques for effective mentoring and insight into perspectives from younger employees and women
  • Employee Engagement – Promotes workplace conversations and action on diversity and inclusion
  • Talent pool – Provides networking opportunities with highly motivated and talented students and improves the organisation's reputation as an employer of choice

A white paper on the return on investment of workplace mentoring highlights the value of mentoring initiatives to millennial employees and one study found that mentorship increased millennial retention by 23%. 

There is always a new member of the team, this helps remind me how a newcomer feels and behaves and how the company and myself could assist them to check-in and be involved. Through encouraging my mentee, I also get inspiration and self-awareness on planning and considering my next steps

Mentor

Program structure and key dates for 2025

The program runs from March to September and has five checkpoints, giving you the opportunity to connect and share with other professionals and students. 

March – Mentor Training

This workshop equips mentors of all levels, with practical tools to create and sustain an effective mentoring relationship. 

March – Launch event

Meet your student and get to know their goals for the program at one of our launch events. Plan your mentoring relationship and connect with other mentoring pairs.

April to August – Professional development workshops

Students must attend two professional development workshops, hosted by industry partners, such as interview skills, resilience, growth mindset. Prepare a workshop at your organisation. 

July – Networking workshop and event

Meet other mentors and give students the opportunity to practice their networking skills.  

September – Graduation evening

Hear from our students as they reflect on their mentoring experience and celebrate achievements at this cocktail-style event.

Time commitment 

It is recommended that mentors spend a minimum of 20 hours with their students one on one from March to September. Mentors are highly encouraged to attend the training, launch breakfast and graduation evening.

Frequently asked questions

How should I spend the time with my mentee?

Discuss with your student how they would like to spend time with you and the goals they would like to achieve. Examples of activities done in the past include:

  • Shadowing includes attending meetings, design and development work etc. 
  • Conversations over coffee to discuss student goals, progress and plans 
  • Meeting different people from across the business and understanding their roles
  • Group discussions with other mentors and students
  • Attending networking events with the mentor
  • Attending professional development workshops run by the company

Can people of all genders be a mentor?

Absolutely! We encourage women, men and non-binary people to contribute to bridging the gender divide in STEM. 

How much experience do I need to be a mentor?

We recommend that mentors have no less than 2 years of professional work experience to become a mentor. 

I am not an engineer or IT professional. Can I mentor?

All students applying to the program are studying Engineering or IT and may expect their mentor to have knowledge of the industry. If you are unsure, please apply and we will see if we can match you with one of our students. 

How often do I need to meet with my student?

Depending on your student's goals, you could meet weekly, fortnightly or monthly. Regular interaction with your student helps to build rapport and will improve outcomes for both of you. 

Can I invite students to my workplace?

Absolutely! The opportunity to meet your colleagues in different roles will add to your student's experience. Discuss with your student where she feels comfortable meeting with you. Please also speak with the relevant people in your company to ensure relevant health, safety and security policies are adhered to. 

Can student works on projects?

Students may undertake 'work experience' and is covered under UTS insurance providing that:

  • The placement is for less than 30 days
  • The student is motivated by the desire to improve their job prospects
  • The student is not required to do any work that would usually be done by an employee
  • The student has flexibility about when they can attend
  • The student can end the placement on short notice