Mentoring helps build stronger Airmen of the future Published Jan. 21, 2011 By Master Sgt. Paul Ellison 571st Contingency Response Group first sergeant TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE,Calif. -- What tool would you say is the most beneficial tool when building your career? What was best for me was learning from a mentor. A mentor is defined as "an experienced individual who shares knowledge, experience and advice with a less experienced person." Mentoring offers distinct advantages to the mentee, mentor and Air Force. Mentoring promotes professional development and encourages the transfer of knowledge from the mentor to the person being mentored. Effective mentoring improves unit effectiveness, enhances morale and creates a work force with increased skill sets and knowledge. The immediate supervisor or rater serves as a trusted advisor, role model and is designated as the primary mentor. A good mentor consistently communicates with their Airmen concerning their career, performance and duties. A mentor assesses the Airmen's skill levels to identify areas of weakness and assists them in turning their weaknesses into strengthens. The lessons learned from a high-quality mentor are invaluable. The mentor's life is enriched on a personal and professional level by the relationship. Being a mentor builds leadership skills, improves communication skills and provides personal satisfaction. Mentoring is beneficial for the subordinate because they receive valuable feedback from someone who understands what they are experiencing at the present stage of their career. Mentoring assists Airmen in identifying the skills and expertise needed to succeed and remain focused. Quality time with a mentor will give them the opportunity to develop communication skills, expand their perspective and learn new ways of approaching situations. Mentoring is mutually beneficial and rewarding both professionally and personally. Airmen will gain the necessary knowledge and skills to prepare for promotion, and greater responsibility. The Air Force benefits by better retention, increased productivity and enhanced morale. Earlier in my career my mentor/supervisor advised me to step outside my career field and try a special duty job. The experience I gained was tremendous, but without my supervisors advice I would not have applied for the job. Supervisors must be involved and have an active role in the professional development of their Airmen. The perfect time to mentor is during the performance feedback session, but mentoring should also occur daily through verbal feedback. Subject's supervisors can cover include, but are not limited to: member's potential, professional development plans, promotion, physical fitness, personal goals and long-range goals. Mentoring is essential to developing future leaders and continued mission success.