Embracing each other’s desire to be better is one superpower of the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center's (ERDC). Through the ERDC Mentoring Program, the agency upholds its slogan of "One ERDC, One Team."
The Mentoring Program enhances the careers, retention and engagement of ERDC employees through formal mentoring relationships. The program aims to attract and recruit well-qualified employees, integrate new employees and retain and grow qualified ones. It is one of several ERDC Workforce Development Program initiatives that administer and advocate for tools to help employees advance their careers.
The program is open to permanent, full-time ERDC federal employees in all career fields and grade levels who aspire to improve their knowledge, skills and abilities or to help others improve. Prospective mentors must have three years of employment at ERDC and aspiring mentees must have six months of ERDC employment experience to enroll. About 100 employees are participating in this year’s program.
Misty McDermit-Taylor, ERDC Workforce Development Program manager and program mentor, shed light on how the program provides a space for newer employees to grow within the agency.
“The program gives newer employees an experienced ERDC employee buddy to help them navigate career choices, learn about the ERDC and learn about themselves,” said Taylor. “It’s a networking and relationship-building tool that helps with retention and recruitment.”
Participating in the program has expanded McDermitt-Taylor's scope of how the it benefits participants.
“I’ve been a mentor and a mentee in the program, and for me, the main benefit has been making connections with people who can advise you if you’re interested in changing career paths or if you want more information about your current career path at ERDC,” she explained. “Mentors can link you with people who can give you the information you seek. The program also makes people feel more confident and connected to the organization for which they work.”
Mentees can voice their concerns and ask questions without judgment. Summer Nash, a research chemist in the Environmental Laboratory and McDermitt-Taylor’s mentee appreciates her support and advice during their time together in the program.
“I enjoy having someone to talk to about work without worrying about being judged for asking certain questions,” said Summer. “We talk about life and so many other topics that interest us. When I started this program, I was pursuing a master’s degree and would express frustrations while writing my thesis. Misty was always encouraging and gave me tips on how to avoid becoming overwhelmed. She’s been super supportive.”
McDermitt-Taylor’s influence has also inspired Nash to consider becoming a mentor herself after gaining more research experience, which aligns with the program's mission of empowering ERDC personnel.
“I would love to mentor someone in the future. I will need more experience under my belt before I make that transition because although I’ve been at ERDC for four years, I’ve only done research for a year. I still feel like a young researcher,” Nash explained. “Once I get more experience, I’d love to take someone under my wing and advise them about research and all the opportunities that ERDC offers.”