Mentorship Program FAQs

The FLC Mentorship Program is designed to create powerful, dynamic partnerships between experienced mentors and motivated mentees. It is a leadership development program designed to support our federal laboratory members in the technology transfer community. Our program aims to provide an opportunity to connect with a colleague in another agency and share knowledge, experiences, successes and challenges in the field of technology transfer. Through this process, you’ll not only strengthen your professional skills but also broaden your understanding of how other agencies conduct T2. We believe that every successful journey begins with the right mentorship, and we’re here to make that journey impactful for you.

The mentor program is open to Federal Laboratory Consortium member agencies.

The mentor program is available at no cost to eligible FLC member agencies.

Each mentor/mentee relationship has a six-month term. Mentors/mentees may choose to continue the relationship after the close of the program but there is no requirement to do so.

Most mentor/mentee meetings will be held virtually on a platform, such as Zoom or Teams, that is amenable to both parties. The FLC also hosts a yearly National Meeting that would serve as a great opportunity to meet in person.

Each mentor/mentee pair should establish a meeting cadence (frequency and duration) that accommodates their schedules and is comfortable for both. Most mentor/mentee pairs meet on a monthly to quarterly basis for a duration of 30 minutes to an hour.

Click here to enroll as a mentor. You will answer questions about your current role and experience.

Mentees will use our Mentor Match tool to find and select a mentor. Demographic choices such as agency, specialty, communication preferences, career stage, etc. are available to assist in selecting a mentor that aligns with your needs.

Mentors may work with up to two mentees during a program cycle. However, you must meet with each mentee separately. Please indicate on your enrollment form if you are available to meet with multiple mentees.

Your role is to serve as a resource and guide for your mentee. Feel free to offer input, advice, and tips you’ve found helpful throughout your career. Allow your mentee to create the agenda for your meetings and direct the overall flow of the relationship. You may offer suggestions based on your own experiences and support your mentee in taking on new challenges.

• Meet Regularly with Your Mentee: Consistent check-ins are important to build a strong relationship and ensure steady progress. Regular meetings allow you to track development and adjust advice as necessary.
• Attend the Mentor/Mentee Orientation: Participating in the orientation ensures you understand the program structure, objectives, and expectations, so you can guide your mentee more effectively and know what resources are available.
• Share Your Experience and Tips for Success: Leverage your own experiences in the field to offer practical advice. Share your insights on what’s worked for you and lessons you’ve learned, especially within the specialized area of technology transfer.
• Help Your Mentee Define Career Objectives: Assist your mentee in setting clear, achievable goals. Work together to identify their strengths and areas for growth. Helping them align their career objectives with industry needs will give them a sense of direction.
• Provide Constructive Feedback: Giving feedback is key to growth. Be specific and actionable with your suggestions, and balance critiques with positive reinforcement to keep your mentee motivated.
• Be Accessible and Engaged: Make yourself available for questions, advice, or a quick check-in as needed. Your engagement and support are vital to the mentee’s success. Responding in a timely manner shows commitment to the relationship.
• Respect Confidentiality: Build trust by ensuring that any personal or sensitive information shared by your mentee is kept confidential. Respect their privacy and confidentiality to maintain a professional, supportive atmosphere.

You and your mentee must agree on a schedule that accommodates you both. Ensure communication preferences and expectations are discussed during your first meeting. Scheduling and preparation of the meeting agenda is the responsibility of the mentee.

Click here to enroll as a mentee. You will initially answer questions about your background and later select the mentor demographics you desire for the relationship.to enroll as a mentee. You will answer questions about your background and why you are interested in finding a mentor.

You will use our Mentor Match tool to find and select a mentor. A mentor directory will allow mentees to search and reach out to potential mentors based on demographics that fit their needs.

Your role is to direct the mentor relationship, be open to learning, communicate clearly, and set goals. Drive the conversation by discussing career goals, challenges, and the mentoring relationship.

• Meet Regularly with Your Mentor: Consistency is key in any mentorship. Set a schedule that works for both of you and try to stick to it as much as possible to maintain momentum.
• Attend the Mentor/Mentee Orientation: This ensures that you understand the goals and structure of the mentorship program. It’s also an opportunity to clarify any expectations upfront.
• Prepare for Meetings with an Agenda: Having a clear agenda will help maximize the time spent with your mentor. It shows you are invested and helps you stay focused on specific goals and challenges.
• Be Open and Transparent: Sharing your goals, expectations, and challenges with your mentor creates a transparent environment where your mentor can offer the most relevant guidance and support.
• Commit to Personal Development: The success of your mentorship depends on your willingness to learn and grow. Seek constructive feedback and be open to applying it.
• Be Accessible and Engaged: Your mentor is there to guide you, but you need to be present and committed to making progress. This includes responding to messages, engaging in discussions, and following up on feedback.
• Respect Confidentiality: Trust is crucial in any mentoring relationship. Keep the conversations and information shared with your mentor confidential unless agreed otherwise.