The Irrigation Association, Fairfax, Virginia, launched its new Professional Mentor Program. This program is designed to help IA members and their businesses navigate and overcome some of the roadblocks and challenges to increased growth and success. The new Professional Mentor Program is being launched as a pilot program for the landscape irrigation sector.
Through a one-on-one mentorship, the Professional Mentor Program connects IA member companies or individuals in need of industry advice or ideas to overcome business challenges with mentors with expertise and a wealth of institutional knowledge in the industry. Throughout the course of the mentorship, mentors and mentees meet virtually for at least four hours and discuss specific business challenges identified by the mentee.
“The Irrigation Association recognizes that all businesses face numerous challenges. This new mentorship program offers our members access to business leaders with a range of industry backgrounds and expertise to help develop productive solutions and turn challenges into opportunities,” says Natasha Rankin, MBA, CAE, IA CEO. “IA members have a wealth of knowledge, and I am excited that they are willing to share that expertise with others to help our businesses and the industry continue to grow and prosper.”
“The chance to examine and discuss nagging business challenges with someone that has experience in those areas and understands the mentee’s professional needs will prove invaluable,” says Chris Keating, CID, district sales manager for Toro and chair of the Professional Mentor Program Task Force. “It is nonthreatening and private and free.”
Following this pilot, the IA plans to expand the mentor program to include mentors for those involved in agricultural irrigation. Additional information about the program and how to apply to be a mentee can be found on the IA’s website.
