CABE successfully piloted a first-of-its-kind mentoring program during the 2007-8 program year. According to a survey of participants, most believe they were well matched, and felt comfortable raising various issues. They discussed a combination of analytical/economic and workplace issues, but mostly workplace issues. Below are some comments from participants:

• I would recommend it. I feel that I met someone that I would feel comfortable in contacting again in the future. It was good to discuss economic issues with someone senior and knowledgeable. These discussions often gave me other perspectives/views of the positions I previously had.
• I would recommend it. As a mentor, I have played a part in introducing one of our members to government, and broadening their knowledge.
• I think the CABE mentoring program is a very valuable initiative and I congratulate those who conceived it. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to share perspectives with a leader in the field.

In its simplest form, mentoring is about sharing knowledge and guiding individuals to make their best possible decisions. It is time well spent. Other organizations are taking note. The National Association for Business Economics (NABE), CABE's sister organization in the United States, is implementing a mentoring program based on the CABE model.

We are now launching the 2010-11 mentoring program and inviting members to submit applications to become a mentor or mentee by September 30th. Potential new members, of whom you are in contact, are also encouraged to apply. Once in the program, participants will be expected to meet for about a year, usually on a monthly basis. At the end of the year, the participants will themselves decide how best to proceed. To learn more about the mentoring program, please consult the CABE Mentoring Program Brochure and Guide, or visit www.cabe.ca.

Greg Haymes
National Coordinator
CABE Mentoring Program