WIM Virginia Mentoring Program

The purpose of the WIM Virginia Mentoring Program is to help develop women in industry by equipping them with the knowledge and leadership skills to realize their full potential. By facilitating mentoring relationships, providing opportunities for reflection and self-examination, and teaching practical leadership skills, the program helps women in industry strengthen their self-confidence, find their voice, learn to wield influence and exercise authority, and articulate and pursue leadership goals.

Why Participate?

  • 97% of mentees say the experience was valuable
  • 87% of mentors and mentees feel empowered by their mentoring relationship
  • 25% of employees who enrolled in a mentoring program had a salary-grade change
  • Mentees are promoted 5 times more often than those without a mentor

Program Objectives

  • Help participants identify and achieve career development and personal growth goals
  • Support building a bench of future women leaders
  • Foster higher levels of engagement and career vision
  • Equip participants with the tools necessary to perform to their highest capabilities
  • Create opportunities to meet and partner with others of different job titles and cultural boundaries
  • Help to expand an individual’s network
  • Create a culture that sees mentorship as an effective way of developing individuals

Mentor Minimum Qualifications

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in the manufacturing industry.
  • Meet the one-hour-per-month time commitment outlined in the program document.
  • Currently hold a manager, supervisor, or leadership/professional equivalent role.

Mentee Minimum Qualifications

  • Eligibility: Female applicants with 12+ months in their current role.
  • Application Process: Mentees must demonstrate a clear need for mentorship, relevant skills or experience, and commitment to the program’s expectations.
  • Program Commitment: 12 months, requiring monthly 1-hour meetings with your Mentor.
  • Responsibilities: Mentees coordinate meetings, submit program documentation, track progress, and use the WiM Engagement Tracker Tool to log monthly meetings.
  • Attendance: Mentees must attend two WiM Professional Series events (10 contact hours of additional leadership training) during the 12-month period and the Graduation Ceremony in May.
  • Non-Disclosure Agreement: Willingness to sign if needed.
  • Program Philosophy: Personal motivation and discipline are key.

 

 

Program Participant Testimonies