Registration deadline for the 2026 Student Mentorship Program is October 2, 2026 |
October 2026 – May 2027
The APWA Student Mentorship Program connects college students with young professionals in the public works industry through one-on-one mentorship, providing an on-ramp into the profession while fostering career development, professional growth, and meaningful industry connections. This program provides a structured yet flexible opportunity for knowledge sharing, career guidance, and leadership development within the public works sector.
Program Overview
The APWA Student Mentorship Program is designed to provide college students with a supportive on-ramp into the public works industry through meaningful one-on-one mentorship with young professionals. Participants are paired based on their interests, academic background, and career goals, creating opportunities for personalized guidance, industry insight, and professional connection.
Once matched, mentor-mentee pairs are encouraged to determine a meeting cadence that works best for their schedules and goals. Whether meeting monthly, quarterly, or more frequently, participants have the flexibility to tailor the experience to their individual needs.
To support ongoing engagement, the program offers an optional Mentorship Punchcard game featuring suggested discussion topics, professional development activities, networking opportunities, and industry exploration exercises that pairs can complete together throughout the year.
In addition to one-on-one mentoring, participants are invited to attend three group events held throughout the program year. These events provide opportunities to connect with other mentors and mentees, learn from public works professionals, and build a broader network within the industry.
Time Commitment
The program is designed to be flexible to meet the needs of the participating mentors/mentees. We suggest that each pair meets once per month, but the meeting cadence can vary based on each pair’s needs. At a minimum, participants should be committed to being responsive and communicative with their mentor/mentee.
Focus Areas
Discussion topics may include, but are not limited to:
- Tips for succeeding in your early career
- Professional and career development
- Leadership skills and management practices
- Career paths within public works
- Networking and industry involvement
- Work-life balance and professional challenges
Mentor-mentee pairs are encouraged to tailor discussions to align with individual goals and interests.
Networking & Engagement Opportunities
Participants are encouraged to attend APWA events together as part of their mentorship experience. These may include:
- Luncheons
- Breakfasts or lunches
- Program-related group events
- Golf or other networking activities
Event participation is optional and based on the preferences of each mentor-mentee pair.
Success Stories From the First Year of Mentorship (2025-2026)
- Over 40 students signed up to be mentored.
- Numerous students were able to make connections that led to full-time positions and/or internships.
- Students gained practical tips/trips about how to structure their resumes and prepare for interviews during the Resume/Interview Workshop hosted by the Student Mentorship Program.
- Mentors gained fulfillment in knowing that they helped assist in a student’s transition from college to career.
Program will begin in October 2026, so sign up quick! Please email questions to jquan@dokkenengineering.com