Mentorship matters, especially in the skilled trades, where experienced professionals guide newcomers in learning the ropes. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance in your trade, having a mentor can make a world of difference. A mentor can help you develop new skills, expand your professional network, and provide valuable advice to navigate your career path.

Quick look

• Mentorship in the skilled trades provides guidance, skill-building, and personalized career advice, making it essential for growth and success.
• Mentorship differs from apprenticeships by offering informal, long-term support focusing on professional and personal development.
• Finding a mentor involves setting career goals, researching programs like Mentor Canada and CPAC, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn.
• Best practices for mentorship include clear communication, mutual respect, and setting realistic expectations for long-term success.
• Programs like SkilledTradesBC, WIST, and Mentor Canada offer structured mentorship opportunities to help young professionals thrive in the trades.

What is mentorship?

Mentorship is a relationship where an experienced individual, the mentor, shares their knowledge and expertise with someone less experienced, the mentee. In the skilled trades, mentors play a key role in helping newcomers navigate the challenges of the industry, develop technical skills, and build confidence on the job. This relationship often goes beyond just work and provides support in many areas of a person’s professional life.

Mentorship vs apprenticeships: What’s the difference?

While mentorship and apprenticeships involve learning from someone more experienced, some key differences exist. Apprenticeships are formal programs where individuals gain hands-on training and experience in a specific trade under the supervision of a skilled worker. Apprentices often receive wages while they learn and follow a set curriculum.

Mentorship, on the other hand, is typically more informal and focuses on personal and professional growth. A mentor may not be directly involved in day-to-day training or teaching specific tasks but will provide advice, career guidance, and share personal experiences to help the mentee succeed in the long run. The mentorship relationship is often longer-term and flexible, allowing trade students to get tips and more personalized support.

Why mentorship is important in the skilled trades

Mentorship plays a vital role in the success and growth of the skilled trades industry. As the workforce faces challenges such as labor shortages and a lack of diversity, having experienced mentors can help overcome these barriers and ensure that the next generation of skilled workers is well-prepared. Here’s how mentorship makes a difference:

• Attracts new talent: The skilled trades can be overlooked by young people, but mentorship helps make these careers more appealing. When new talent sees experienced professionals willing to invest in their development, it creates a sense of opportunity and excitement about joining the field.
• Promotes inclusion: Mentorship is an effective way to promote inclusion and diversity in the trades. It provides underrepresented groups with the support they need to enter and thrive in these industries, breaking down barriers that may have once existed.
• Improves engagement levels: Workers who have mentors are more likely to feel motivated and engaged in their work. The support and guidance a mentor provides can help keep mentees focused on their goals, leading to higher levels of job satisfaction and productivity.
• Improves retention rates: Having a mentor can make workers feel more connected to their jobs and the industry. This support can reduce turnover, as employees are more likely to stay in roles where they feel valued and encouraged to grow.
• Career development: Mentors help mentees develop not only technical skills but also critical soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and leadership. This holistic development better prepares mentees for the challenges ahead in their careers.
• Networking opportunities: A mentor often has a well-established network of industry connections. Through mentorship, mentees can tap into these networks, opening doors to new job opportunities and career advancements.
• Life lessons and personal experiences: Mentors offer more than just professional advice. They share life experiences and valuable lessons that help mentees grow personally and professionally, making the relationship one that lasts a lifetime.

How to find a mentor

Finding the right mentor can significantly impact your career in the skilled trades. Here are a few steps to guide you in your search:

Step 1: Identify your career goals

Before seeking a mentor, take some time to reflect on your career aspirations. What skills do you want to develop? What challenges are you facing? Understanding your goals will help you find a mentor who aligns with your needs and can offer the right guidance.

Step 2: Research programs

Many trade unions, industry organizations, and even community groups offer formal mentorship programs. These programs connect you with experienced professionals eager to help you grow in your trade. For example, organizations like the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union (UA) often have mentorship opportunities.

Step 3: Create a list of questions for mentorship interviews:

Once you identify potential mentors and programs, prepare a list of questions to help you understand their experiences and whether or not these programs will guide you in the right direction. This can include asking about their career journey and challenges they’ve overcome for mentors, while for programs, you can ask what the benefits are of joining that organization. By creating this list of questions, you can identify what mentor and mentorship programs to choose.

Step 4: Leverage a networking platform

Networking platforms like LinkedIn are great tools for connecting with potential mentors. Look for people in your industry with the experience and skills you admire, and reach out to start a conversation. You can also join trade-specific forums or attend industry events to meet mentors in person.

Best practices for building a successful mentorship

To get the most out of a mentorship relationship, it’s important to follow some key practices that help ensure the partnership is effective and mutually beneficial. Here are some tips for building a strong mentorship:

• Establish goals: Both you and your mentor should be clear about what you hope to achieve through the mentorship. Setting specific, measurable goals helps track progress and keeps the relationship focused on growth.
• Good communication: Communication is the foundation of any successful relationship. Be open, honest, and clear when discussing your goals, challenges, and needs. Regular check-ins with your mentor help keep the relationship strong and ensure you’re both on the same page.
• Openness and honesty: Don’t be afraid to share your concerns, struggles, or setbacks. A good mentor will listen without judgment and offer advice based on their experiences. Being honest about your progress allows your mentor to provide the most relevant guidance.
• Mutual respect: A mentorship is built on respect. Respect your mentor’s time and expertise, and in turn, respect your own growth and learning process. A positive, respectful relationship encourages trust and ensures both parties feel valued.
• Realistic expectations: Understand that mentorship is a long-term commitment. Growth takes time, and not every conversation will result in immediate solutions. Set realistic expectations for what you can achieve during the mentorship, and be patient with yourself.

Young professional mentorship programs

Mentorship programs can be a game changer for young professionals in the skilled trades. Here are some excellent mentorship opportunities that focus on helping newcomers thrive in their careers:

• CPAC Mentorship Program: The CPAC Mentorship Program supports young professionals aged 21 to 35. It offers personalized mentorship, job search workshops, communication training, and networking opportunities to help participants secure careers in their desired industries. These include plumbing, electrical, and leadership training. This program is beneficial for young people looking to break into the workforce in Canada. 

• SkilledTradesBC Youth Programs: SkilledTradesBC offers several youth programs, including Youth Explore, Youth Train, and Youth Work in Trades. These programs provide students with hands-on experience, skills development, and the opportunity to earn while they learn, making them an excellent option for young people looking to build a trade career.
• Skills for Change – Women in Skilled Trades (WIST): Skills for Change offers the Women in Skilled Trades (WIST) program, designed to empower women entering Red Seal trades. This program provides specialized mentorship, training, and mental health support to help women succeed in various trades across Canada. 
• Mentor Canada: Mentor Canada is a national organization focused on expanding access to mentoring for youth in Canada. It works with different sectors to create a strong mentoring ecosystem and connects young professionals with mentors who can help guide them through their career journeys.

Bottom line

Mentorship is a powerful tool in the skilled trades, offering young professionals the support they need to succeed. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance, a mentor can help you develop technical skills, build your network, and guide you through the challenges of your trade. By engaging in mentorship programs, you gain the knowledge to excel and the confidence to navigate your career path. With the right mentor, you can unlock opportunities for growth and set yourself up for long-term success in the skilled trades.

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