Mentorship

Applications ARE open for our 2025-2026 mentorship program! find the application links below.

Welcome! We are glad you are here to learn more about the SMPS KC Mentorship Program. We pair senior professionals (generally those with 5+ years of industry experience) with junior members to provide both individuals with a rewarding, mutually advantageous professional relationship. 

Participants are expected to meet with their mentor or protégé every 6-8 weeks and attend program events.

If you want to learn more about the mentorship program before then, please email [email protected].

Mentors

Mentors gain the opportunity to practice and improve coaching skills by helping the next generation of marketers and business developers grow. They listen to their protégés’ concerns and needs, provide support and guidance, share knowledge about developing a career path, suggest ways to respond to difficult situations and help open the protégé's mind to other opportunities. 

• Senior-level marketing or business development professionals with at least five years of experience in the A/E/C industries. Do not need to be SMPS-KC members
• Eager to share your experience and wisdom
• Committed to the protégé’s professional and personal development
• Must be willing to commit time monthly for the duration of the program (December 2025 - December 2026)

Are you a CPSM? Certain program activities are eligible for CEU credits!

Protégés

Protégés have the opportunity to build their network while better understanding how to define their career path and identify opportunities for development. Protégés are expected to take the lead with their mentors, being clear about what they hope to gain from the program and coming to meetings prepared with discussion topics.

• Must have full-time employment in the A/E/C industries. Do not need to be SMPS-KC members
• Excited and passionate about growing within the A/E/C field
• Must be willing to commit time monthly for the duration of the program (December 2025-December 2026)

2025-2026 Schedule

• November 3, 2025: Applications Open
• November 21, 2025: Applications Close
• Week of November 24, 2025:  Protégé and Mentor Pairs are Chosen & Contacted
• TBD, December: Kick-off Meeting with Entire Program to discuss Meeting Schedules, Roles and Responsibilities, and Suggestions for Discussion Topics
• December 2025- December 2026: Pairs Meet on a Regular Cadence
• June 2026: Half-Way Check-In
• December 2026: Wrap Up Event

*Additional events may be added based on interest.

Applications

Applications for both Mentors and Protégés are open until November 21, 2025. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions. 

DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO DECEMBER 15TH, 2025! 

Mentor Application

Protégé Application