Mentorship Program

Overview

The goal of the NAFTZ Mentorship Program is to foster an exchange of knowledge and ideas, develop foreign-trade zones (FTZ) professionals at all levels, and expand networks. An important benefit of NAFTZ membership — in addition to discounted access to high-quality programming and events — is our network of professionals who possess valuable experience from whom others can learn. Mentoring is not expected to be a large time commitment, but is intended to benefit both parties.

Note: This opportunity is available to Grantee, Operator/User, and 3PL/3FP members only.

How the Mentor Program Works

New this year: Mentees will be presented with a few profiles we (the sub-committee) feel would be a good match based on their application. The Mentees will review the profiles and select their top picks for the mentorship experience. The Mentorship Sub-Committee will then review all mentees' top picks and make the final decision on the matches.

Mentees and Mentors will be introduced to each other in November to begin the 6 month long mentorship program experience.

General Rules of NAFTZ Mentorship Program

This is a six month program and commitment
A minimum of one virtual meeting or phone call once a month between mentor and mentee.
A desire to support and promote the role of the FTZ professional through a sincere dedication of time, interest, and enthusiasm.
Both parties must be respectful of confidentiality and schedules.
The Mentor Program is intended solely as an educational effort that is general in nature. It is not intended to provide detailed guidance on the FTZ program. The National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones does not take responsibility or endorse the individual views of any Mentor.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Mentor

Qualifications

Benefits

Roles and Responsibilities of the Mentee

Qualifications

Benefits

Sign-Up for the Mentorship Program

Applications are now open for the November 2025 - April 2026 Mentorship Program term. Once applications close on September 26 the Membership Subcommittee will review each submission. We'll then email each mentee profiles of the mentors (the mentors' application summarized and in a format that easily legible) that we feel would be a good match. Mentees will be asked to select their top picks, the Mentorship Sub-Committee will review and finalize before introducing each mentee and mentor and launching the program in November.

Mentor Application

Mentee Application

Questions? Contact Kristine Wells at 202-331-1950 ext. 224

Mentorship Program

Overview

Sign-Up for the Mentorship Program

National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones