Overview

The goal of the NAFTZ Mentorship Program is to foster an exchange of knowledge and ideas, develop foreign-trade zone (FTZ) professional at all levels, and expand networks. An important benefit of NAFTZ membership — in addition to discounted access to high-quality programming and events — is our network of professionals who possess valuable experience from whom others can learn. Mentoring is not expected to be a large time commitment, but is intended to benefit both parties. Note: This opportunity is available to Grantee and Operator/User members only.

How the Mentor Program Works

A committee will be formed to approve all mentors. Volunteer mentors will be paired with mentees with similar backgrounds and interests and are enabled to work together.

General Rules of NAFTZ Mentorship Program

• This is a six month program and commitment
• A minimum of one virtual meeting or phone call once a month between mentor and mentee.
• Willingness to meet in-person during Annual Conference or Spring Seminar (details will be provided closer to these events)
• A desire to support and promote the role of the FTZ professional through a sincere dedication of time, interest, and enthusiasm.
• Both parties must be respectful of confidentiality and schedules.
• The Mentor Program is intended solely as an educational effort that is general in nature. It is not intended to provide detailed guidance on the FTZ program.  The National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones does not take responsibility or endorse the individual views of any Mentor.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Mentor

A mentor provides guidance and recommendations to help the mentee develop his or her professional skills and serves as a resource to the FTZ profession.

Qualifications

A mentor must have the following qualifications:

• Active membership
• Expertise in his or her field of knowledge
• A desire to help the mentee
• A willingness to commit time and energy to the relationship

Benefits

For mentors, the rewards for mentoring include:

• Personal satisfaction of giving back to the community
• An outlet to share personal knowledge, insight, and experience
• An opportunity to gain perspective on the challenges that other FTZ professionals face
• Professional enhancement and development of leadership skills

Roles and Responsibilities of the Mentee

The NAFTZ Mentor Program is designed primarily for the benefit of the mentee. Therefore, the mentee will assume most of the responsibility for the quality of outcomes in a mentoring partnership. The mentee is responsible for setting goals and works with the mentor to achieve them. A mentee should have a strong commitment to professional growth and the ambition to succeed.

Qualifications

A mentee must have the following qualifications:

• Active membership
• Ambition to succeed
• Strong commitment to goals and personal responsibility

Benefits

The mentor gains the following benefits from being mentored:

• Personalized education geared at specific needs
• An outlet to share personal knowledge, insight, and experience
• Gain perspective on the challenges that other FTZ professionals face
• Knowledge of the pathway to the AZS credential

Requesting a Mentor or Mentee

Applications are now open for the July – December Mentorship Program term. Once applications close on June 13 the Membership Subcommittee will review the request and assign you with the “best fit” mentor or mentee. An email will be sent to both participants to initiate an introduction.

Mentee Applications Are Closed

Mentor Signup

Questions? Contact Kristine Rosa at 202-331-1950 ext. 224