PMI-NEFL Mentorship Program
Background and Purpose of the ProgramPeriodically, PMI-NEFL conducts interest surveys within its membership to learn, among many things, what topics interest its members and what services the members would like to see added to those the chapter offers. One of those services that members have repeatedly requested is to have a mentorship program… and we heard you! PMI-NEFL leadership is launching its own program under the guidance of PMI. We are starting small with a Pilot scheduled to last three months and are asking participants to commit to meeting at least every other week for one hour. We ask participants to complete brief surveys during the Pilot so we can measure progress. We promise to keep them short. When finished, we will assess how successful the Pilot was and adjust accordingly. The mentor-protégé relationship can continue after the PMI-NEFL Mentorship Program concludes if the mentor and protégé both agree. Most people understand the role name 'mentor.' However, some organizations refer to those being mentored as 'mentees' while others use the term 'protégés.' They mean the same—the one receiving guidance. |
How the Program Works
The mentoring program follows a structured process. Mentors apply first through PMI's Volunteer Engagement Platform (VEP). Once approved, mentor profiles are published on the PMI-NEFL website. Protégés then apply, review the mentor profiles, and identify their preferred mentors. PMI-NEFL forms mentoring circles based on participant goals, mentor preferences, and topic alignment before the kickoff meeting and three-month mentoring cycle begin.
Timeline of current cycle, the Pilot
Benefits of Being a Mentor
The mentor benefits by getting more exposure in a leadership role, strengthening communication and coaching skills, expanding his or her professional network, and helping others grow professionally. Since this role is set up within PMI's Volunteer Engagement Platform (VEP), and PMI-NEFL has designated that mentors may claim eligible volunteer service PDUs, mentors may also apply their mentoring time toward continuing certification requirements, as applicable.
Mentor Application Form – Open until 8/30/2026
Link in plain text to the application form on PMI.org's VEP: https://volunteer.pmi.org/opportunities/72941
Benefits of Being Mentored
When a protégé receives advice from one of the PMI-NEFL mentors that successfully resolves a challenge or helps the protégé grow professionally, the protégé gains perspective, builds confidence, develops new skills, and is better prepared to handle similar situations in the future. The protégé may also expand his or her professional network and strengthen career development opportunities.
Link in plain text to the application form in ClickUp...coming soon! Opens 9/1/2026.
Successful mentoring relationships require active participation from both individuals. Protégés are expected to establish goals, prepare for meetings, and actively participate throughout the program. Mentors are expected to guide, encourage, and share their knowledge and experience in a respectful and supportive manner.
Protégés drive the relationship. Mentors guide and support.
General Program Guidance
The mentoring program is intended to support professional and career development. Topics may include:
- Career planning
- Leadership
- Project management
- Certifications
- Communication
- Workplace challenges
- Stakeholder engagement
- Networking
- Career transitions
Questions about life outside of work and outside of project management should be associated with situations that affect work life, or work situations that affect personal life.
Topics that will specifically not be addressed:
- Mental health
- Physical health
- Legal advice
- Political affiliations or opinions, except where they pertain to PMI elections
- Personal or family counseling unrelated to professional development
