A game changer in workforce development: WINGS Mentoring Program

On Thursday, September 14, 2023, the Wings Mentoring Program celebrated a groundbreaking achievement as it successfully graduated its inaugural cohort. This program, hailed as a game changer in workforce development connected ten students with ten industry mentors, proving that when knowledge, passion, and expertise converge, the future workforce is forever transformed.

The Wings Mentoring Program, launched in 2023 in a collaboration between Country Universities Centre Macleay Valley, Regional Industry Education Partnership and HR Culture.  The pioneering initiative, has disrupted traditional mentoring models by creating a dynamic platform that pairs students with industry mentors who are nothing short of champions in their respective fields. The result has been a transformational journey for these budding professionals.

Each student in the program was strategically matched with a mentor. This partnership was not just about imparting knowledge; it was about igniting the spark of inspiration and nurturing the skills necessary for success. The program’s workshops themes covered crucial themes like communication, emotional intelligence, and seamless transitions into the workforce. The impact was palpable, with both students and mentors emerging as stronger, more capable professionals.

Kinne Ring, the Centre Manager of the Country Universities Centre Macleay Valley, couldn’t be more thrilled with the program’s success. “We have fantastic industry professionals who hold a wealth of knowledge, passion, and expertise,” Ring stated. “By connecting them with the next generation, we can see firsthand how we can make a positive impact on the future workforce.”

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. The Wings Mentoring Program is now in the running for Excellence in Innovation at the Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards, a testament to its visionary approach to mentoring and community engagement.

The game-changing aspect of the Wings Mentoring Program extends beyond mentorship. It’s a commitment to community development, with active participation from local businesses and organizations. This collaboration not only provided students with authentic, real-world experiences but also bolstered the local economy and solidified our institution’s ties with the community.

The true success story from the program is a student who is set to graduate from high school and embark on a thrilling apprenticeship journey at Birdon Engineering in 2024. This achievement underscores the program’s role in opening doors and inspiring young individuals to pursue their dreams.

The Wings Mentoring Program stands as a testament to the transformative power of mentorship, community collaboration, and dedicated individuals working together to create a brighter future.

As we continue to nurture talent, build bridges, and drive positive change, we eagerly await the outcome of the Excellence in Innovation award, looking forward to many more game-changing milestones.