Formal Mentoring Program
2026 WTS-Boston Formal Mentoring Program
Enrollment for our 2026 program is now open! Please see below for more information on the application process.
The WTS-Boston Mentoring Program will begin in January 2026. This program will match seasoned leaders in the transportation industry with emerging professionals in mentor-mentee pairs for a six-month program.
Why is this program needed?
WTS International’s mission is to provide access and equity for all woman-identifying people in transportation. At its core, across all chapters, WTS provides professional development opportunities for its members, offering encouragement and recognition to support the advancement of rising professionals as they grow in their careers. Mentoring is cited as both a specific goal area for WTS International and as one of its six guiding principles (for WTS to help shape future generations of transportation leaders).
This formal mentoring program for WTS-Boston will provide the opportunity for emerging professionals to access more experienced professionals in the industry, providing them with insights that could have a lasting and tangible effect on their careers. Mentors in turn benefit from sharing career success stories with future leaders, building long-term relationships, and giving back to an industry that helped them in previous years.
Is the program only open to women?
No. In fact, this program will be most successful if it solicits active participation from anyone regardless of gender identity as mentors. We are fortunate to have incredible leaders of all gender identities in Boston who are WTS members and supporters, with invaluable lessons to share with emerging professionals. Mentors and mentees will be paired based on preferences, as identified during our initial group event where each mentee will have a brief period to talk with each mentor.
What does participation look like?
Participation is easy and fulfilling. There are two components: mentor-mentee meetings (one-on-one) and group professional development sessions with all mentor-mentee pairs. We plan to host monthly professional development sessions between January and June 2026, with one facilitated group event each month. Events will be structured around topics with invited speakers.
Mentors and mentees are required to attend all mentoring events together. They are also asked to get together once a month (or more if they wish) informally one-on-one or as small groups outside the formal mentoring events. Mentors are encouraged to meet up with their mentees at WTS-Boston events and to introduce them to other people in the transportation field. Above all, mentors are expected to act as a resource. They are asked to provide guidance and to answer mentees’ questions honestly and sincerely. Mentor/mentee conversations revolve around identifying and taking advantage of opportunities. A mentor should be willing to answer the questions: What is your success story? What challenges did you face? How did you overcome adversity?
Who is eligible?
For mentees: The program is open to current WTS-Boston members only, with preference given to active members of WTS. Has your membership lapsed? Renew here!
For mentors: The program is open to current WTS-Boston members only, with preference given to active members of WTS. Has your membership lapsed? Renew here!
Refer to mentor and mentee application forms for specific eligibility criteria and requirements.
How do I apply and what are the next steps?
Applications Now Open: 2026 WTS Boston Chapter Formal Mentoring Program
We’re excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 WTS Boston Chapter Formal Mentoring Program! This program offers an opportunity to build meaningful professional relationships, gain insights from experienced mentors and guest speakers, and support the growth of emerging professionals in the transportation industry.
If you’re interested in applying or would like to learn more about the program, please reach out to [email protected]. We’d be happy to connect and answer any questions!
The application is the first step in matching mentors with mentees. It asks participants a few questions about what they hope to gain from the program and their preferred method of communication. At the first session in January, both mentors and mentees will meet their cohort, and mentors and mentees will share their preferences for pairing. Following that meeting, the WTS-Boston Formal Mentoring Committee will match mentors and mentees based on the information provided in the applications and matching preference survey.
A complete application submission requirements include:
- Completed application form
- Resume and headshot
- A brief bio
- Approval letter from supervisor (for mentees only)
Only complete application submissions will be considered.
Applications are due November 7, 2025 to [email protected]. Questions about the applications or program may be directed to the same email.