Mentor Program FAQs

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

What is the SME Mentor Match Program? 

The SME Mentor Match Program is a service provided to members of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME). SME pairs members for the purpose of education and networking consistent with the vision, mission and core values of SME. The goal of the program is to draw upon the diversity of SME’s membership to pair mentees and mentors from varied life journeys, career paths, interests and backgrounds for one-on one mentoring and group networking. The program has been developed to be a mutually beneficial experience for members to learn from different perspectives.  

What is the time commitment for participants? 

A Mentor Match program runs for 6 months. All mentors and mentees will be asked to attend Mentor Match Orientation (approximately one hour) or to watch the recorded session. Once mentors and mentees are paired, they will meet to define their time together. Some pairs will meet formally once a month with an agenda in person or by phone/video. Other pairs will communicate by email and meet only when needed in a more informal setting. All participants will be asked to complete a survey at the end of the 6-month Mentor Match session.  

What is the cost of the program to the participants? 

Participation in SME’s Mentor Match Program is free to all SME members in good standing. Mentor/mentee pairs can choose to meet virtually by video or phone and/or they can choose to meet face-to-face at events. 

ELIGIBILITY AND APPLICATION PROCESS  

What are the eligibility requirements? 

Mentors and Mentees must be SME members in good standing for the duration of the Mentor Match program. 

How do I sign up? 

Apply on the Mentoring Program main page. This is an SME member benefit. For SME members, there are NO fees to participate.

Watch a tutorial on how to enroll in the program.

Watch a tutorial on how to search and connect.

PROGRAM PREVIEW

What can I expect from the SME Mentor Match Program? 

Mentors and Mentees will attend an orientation to learn more about the program expectations and benefits. After being paired, mentors and mentees will meet to define their relationship. Mentees will take the lead in setting up the initial meeting and schedule all future interaction. The mentor/mentee pair will decide how the relationship will work best for them. Resources will be provided to participants to ensure success! 

Key Program Milestones 

  • Mentoring Orientation 
  • Mentor/mentee meetings (ongoing, defined by pair)  
  • 3-month Program Feedback survey and group check-in meeting 
  • 6-month Program Completion survey and final group meeting 

Why should I be a mentee? 

A mentoring relationship can help you work towards your goals as you navigate your career path. The SME Mentor Match offers the opportunity to learn from an experienced member who can support your success. 

  • Expand your network and develop long-lasting relationships  
  • Widen your perspective, and learn new things 
  • Improve your leadership, communication and networking skills 
  • Learn from others’ knowledge and experience that will help guide your career 
  • Receive individual attention, encouragement and advice 

Why should I be a mentor? 

Mentoring offers an enriching experience for mentors, providing an opportunity to give back to the community and to grow as a leader. Learn something new from tomorrow’s leaders and gain a fresh perspective by becoming a mentor. 

  • Expand your network and develop long-lasting relationships  
  • Widen your perspective, and learn new things 
  • Sharpen your leadership, communication and networking skills 
  • Share your experiences for the betterment of others

I have a question that isn’t on this list. Who should I talk to? 

Please contact SME Membership at membership@smenet.org or call 303-948-4247. SME is open Monday-Friday from 9am-4pm MT.