Abstract

     Interpreters employed with the National Center on Deafness (NCOD) are offered the opportunity to participate in an employee mentorship program. This program has proven to be highly effective as a means of professional upgrading and skill maintenance. The concept of a formalized mentoring program is new to the field of interpreting, and has created a groundswell of enthusiasm.

     During the academic year, interpreters of any level of skill may request a mentorship. At the beginning of the semester they are assigned to a mentor, and participate in the process of program orientation, pre-diagnosis of skills, definition of goals and objectives, assessment, review of the mentorship experience, post-diagnosis and, finally, future recommendations. The mentorship team confers to develop mentoring and diagnostic strategies. Mentors may also participate as mentees to further enhance their experience.

     This presentation will provide a complete overview of the employee mentorship process and provide you with the necessary information and background to establish a similar program.

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