ORLANDO, Fla. -- A Flash Mentoring event was held Jan. 22, 2014 in the Multipurpose Room of the de Florez Building at NAWCTSD. More than 60 people attended the lunch time event to learn about the importance of mentorship and how to get involved with NAVAIR’s mentoring program. The event kicked off with an introduction of the eight participating mentors. This team of mentors consisted of a mix of active duty Sailors and civilian personnel from different competencies at NAWCTSD .

The participating mentors were paired up into four teams and rotated around tables talking to employees about various issues they struggled with during their career.

When questioned if he was concerned about helping employees achieve their goals leading to the possibility of a high turnover, NAWCTSD’s Director of Logistics Brad Ehrhardt stated “When I’m mentoring I like to look at the big picture for NAVAIR. If I am doing my best to help people to achieve their goals then people will continue to want to work for you,” said Ehrhardt.

Phyllis Spano who has more than 33 years of federal service and currently serves are the Director of Cooperate Operations at NAWCTSD gave her thoughts about being a mentor and her keys to success. “I follow the acronym HIT. Honesty, Integrity and Truth, own up to your mistakes and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.  Never think that you know it all. I learn something new every day,” said Spano.

January is National Mentorship month but, at NAWCTSD mentorship remains a high priority throughout the year. A five-member mentoring team at NAWCTSD organizes and designs a wide variety of events centered on encouraging mentorship. This team meets weekly to discuss opportunities and develop new ideas on ways to increase participation within the workforce.