Mentor Perspectives on the DCAA Mentorship Program

Fort Belvoir, Va. -

The 2023 Mentorship Program cohort just completed another year of success, shining a light on the value this program brings to all participants. The DCAA Mentorship Program is a formal 10-month program focused on developing technical skills, leadership competencies, and soft skills to prepare mentees for career growth and progression. Mentors do more than guide someone through their career, they also hone their leadership skills, gain deeper insights into the DCAA culture, and build meaningful professional relationships.

This year, we spoke with a few mentors who shared their experiences and perspectives on the program, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how mentorship at DCAA creates lasting impacts.

Arthur

Arthur Noyce is a Data Analytics Branch Chief who returned to participate in the Mentorship Program for his second time. As a former mentee, Arthur found value in his experience, inspiring him to help the next generation of mentees as a mentor.

"I thoroughly enjoyed the program; it was my first time being a mentor and was extremely rewarding. Sharing my knowledge and experience with someone else and setting them up for success while they help me hone my leadership experience makes this such a remarkably beneficial program. The program also helps expand your network, I got to know some other great people in the agency and could connect my mentee with others as well."

Reflecting on his experience as a mentee in 2019, his role and approach to mentoring shifted throughout the program. "At first I was like a fire hydrant, sharing everything I knew with my mentee. I was excited to share and help them but I realized that they already knew a lot that I was sharing and I started to shift my role. I began to listen to my mentee and help them find their own path and forge their own conclusions." Finally, Arthur shares his final reflections on the program, "There's so much value in this program if you're willing to make the most of it. I highly encourage participation."

Jayne

Jayne Permsookjit is Branch Manager in a Central Region office who is a fierce advocate for the Mentorship Program. As a five-time participant, both in mentor and mentee roles, the program consistently offers Jayne opportunities for growth, networking, and reflection.

"I've been a mentor three times and a mentee twice. It's a great way to expand your network and the pairings can really be the perfect match for your growth." The program isn't always for people working to promote, Jayne shared, "One year, I mentored a GS-12 auditor who wanted to refine her skills but wasn't necessarily seeking a promotion. We worked together and it was a successful partnership, we still stay connected, and it serves as a reminder that this program can really benefit everyone interested in career growth and personal development."

Jayne's journey through the program as a mentee also helped her identify her own career goals and needs. "I wanted to become a senior quality auditor and was extremely focused on that goal for the longest time. My mentor helped guide me beyond that goal and prepared me for interviews to expand my skill set and knowledge across other areas in the agency too."

Although her most recent mentorship ended early due to a position shift, Jayne continues informally training her former mentee just as she helps everyone on her team. "I always advocate for people to participate, whether they want to promote or not. It's a great way to grow personally and professionally. I've been a supervisor for about ten years and always enjoy watching people grow and helping others improve their skills, this is a wonderful program."

Larry

Larry Chanay is a seasoned mentor with prior experience with the Mentorship Program. For Larry, the program offers a crucial foundation of support and learning for everyone involved.

"The program manager support, training, and bi-monthly communities of practice are exceptional," Larry said. He views the mentorship program as an excellent vehicle providing guidance, answering questions, and helping mentees pursue their goals.

Larry's mentoring approach focuses on creating a safe, supportive environment where mentees feel comfortable openly communicating. "I establish a positive relationship, be a good listener, and help the mentee set realistic goals," he shares. Networking is a key component and Larry makes sure mentees have connections with people in areas they show interest. He reviews resumes and offers feedback on staff conference presentations.

While Larry, Jayne, and Arthur have differences in their mentorship approaches and experiences, they encourage participation and focus on guiding mentees to their path within the agency. The Mentorship Program is a powerful tool for professional growth, personal development, and building lasting connections within the agency.

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