Applications are now open for the PIANC AU-NZ 2027 Mentoring Program! Apply before COB 23 October 2026. Full instructions are here.
We are calling for mentors and mentees to apply! Mentors will be supported by and provided with guidance from the Program Coordinator.
Since PIANC AU-NZ’s mentoring program was established in 2020, over one hundred of our members have successfully completed the program. Participants have come from a variety of maritime organisations from around the region. Our congratulations and thanks to all of them.
The mentoring program continues to deliver strong outcomes for participants, with high overall satisfaction and positive feedback from both mentors and mentees. Feedback shows the experience to be valuable and enjoyable on both sides.
Participants in 2025-2026 gave the mentoring program a satisfaction score of 8.9 out of 10.
KEY FINDINGS of the most recent survey show:
▪High participant satisfaction across the program
▪Strong mentor engagement
▪Valuable professional and career development
▪Participants would recommend the program to others
Feedback from participants over the years:
Comments from Mentees included:
“Personally, I’ve found the program to be an excellent source of information for my role and at my career stage. From our organisation’s perspective I see this as a valuable training tool for people in their early and middle stages of their careers. From PIANC’s perspective I think this is a great addition to the range of benefits our members receive.”
“the experience was extremely valuable. My mentor shared insightful industry knowledge, practical advice, and guidance that helped broaden my perspective on my professional development. Beyond the formal program, I have gained a trusted industry mentor whose experience and support I look forward to drawing on as I continue to progress my career. I would highly recommend the program to other young professionals.”
“It has given me valuable insight into the management and leadership processes of another organisation, which I’ve been able to bring back into my role.”
“I have a clear career goal and plan, and a system I can use moving forward.”
“Thank you for pairing me with a great industry professional.”
Comments from Mentors included:
“I have really enjoyed the experience, particularly meeting and engaging with my mentee. I think we were a good match and I hope he found our discussions beneficial. I would support the continuation of the program and recommend it to others.”
“I have thoroughly enjoyed taking part, and have really appreciated the opportunity.”
“Gained an insight into the present challenges for new graduates in the industry, and the road blocks and barriers to employment.”
“Really great to provide some early career guidance to help navigate some of the difficulties that I (and I’m sure we all) had.”
“My mentee had two items, learning more about PIANC and working better with clients as a consultant. Was able to discuss PIANC and convinced mentee to submit an abstract that was accepted. Talked him through positive engagement with a client which led to expanded scope and repeat client.”
“Well done team – it’s been a great experience for me personally, and I have enjoyed seeing my mentee take on board the discussions and take action himself. A true sucess of any mentor/mentee program! “
Watch 2024 Video Profile of Mentoring Pair Catherine Blaine and Yanyan Zhang.
Find out more here.