Mentorship Program
Sponsored By:
Premier Event Sponsor: Withey Morris Baugh
Sponsor: DLR Group
Overview
Each year, the Arizona Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA AZ) brings together students, emerging professionals, and seasoned practitioners through its statewide Mentorship Program. The goal is to support the next generation of planners by pairing mentees eager to grow in their careers with experienced mentors who are committed to sharing their knowledge, guidance, and professional networks.
The program blends one-on-one mentoring relationships with group learning and networking opportunities, creating an environment where mentees can explore career pathways, gain practical insights, and set professional goals, while mentors find renewed purpose and a chance to shape the future of the profession. Together, participants build connections that strengthen planning practice across Arizona and advance APA’s mission of fostering collaboration between senior and emerging professionals.
Become a Mentor
APA AZ is currently recruiting new mentors for the program. We’re looking for planners and allied professionals who are:
- Experienced in planning, urban development, housing, environmental management, or related fields (including academia).
- Passionate about growing and strengthening the planning profession in Arizona.
- Motivated to make a meaningful, lasting impact on students and young professionals.
Mentors are typically matched with 1–2 mentees each year, based on professional goals, location, and shared interests. Each mentor–mentee relationship is unique, allowing flexibility in how pairs connect—whether through regular meetings, site visits, or informal check-ins.
Benefits for mentors include:
- Developing and refining leadership and coaching skills
- Building stronger connections within APA AZ’s professional network
- Shaping and guiding the future of planning in Arizona
- Contributing to talent development and recruitment for your organization
- Gaining fresh perspectives and renewed energy from working with early-career planners
- Receiving recognition for service and volunteer hours
- CM credits are available for participation (contact azapamentorshipprogram@gmail.com for details)
Get Mentored
APA AZ is also seeking students and early-career professionals to join the next mentorship cohort. This program is designed for individuals who are:
- Ready to take intentional steps toward advancing their planning careers
- Eager to form supportive, constructive relationships with established professionals
- Interested in gaining applied knowledge of planning practice in Arizona
- Committed to making the most of their APA AZ membership and professional development opportunities
Mentees are paired with experienced planners who can provide tailored guidance aligned with their career goals and interests. In addition to one-on-one mentoring, participants engage in group activities and networking events that expand their knowledge of the field and connect them with planners statewide.
Benefits for mentees include:
- Gaining practical insight into real-world planning practice in Arizona
- Building a professional network that spans sectors, geographies, and experience levels
- Establishing long-lasting mentor relationships that provide support beyond the program
- Receiving guidance on AICP preparation and professional certification steps
- Accessing career opportunities and professional connections not available through traditional job searches
- Laying the foundation for personal and professional success in the planning profession
How It Works
The APA AZ Mentorship Program is a yearlong experience that combines group events with customized mentoring relationships. Pairs are thoughtfully matched based on professional interests, goals, and geography, ensuring each participant has the best opportunity to form a constructive and rewarding relationship. While APA AZ provides structure and support, the details of how and when mentors and mentees connect are flexible, giving each pair the freedom to shape their own experience.
Commitment
To foster meaningful growth and consistent communication, participants are expected to commit to at least one hour per month connecting with their mentor or mentee. These meetings can take place in person, virtually, or by phone, depending on what works best for the pair. Beyond the monthly check-in, participants are encouraged to stay in touch informally and take advantage of additional program activities. This consistent time investment helps ensure both mentors and mentees build strong, supportive, and productive relationships throughout the program year.
In addition to the monthly meeting, participants are encouraged to engage in other APA AZ and University events, conferences, webinars, and happy hours together. Shared participation in these activities strengthens relationships, broadens professional networks, and helps mentees experience the planning profession beyond one-on-one conversations. To build community within each cohort, the Mentorship Program also hosts one formal happy hour event at the end of each semester, providing mentors and mentees a chance to celebrate progress, connect with peers, and expand their professional circles.
Check-Ins
APA AZ Mentorship Program Coordinators will reach out mid-semester to check in on each mentor–mentee pair. These check-ins provide an opportunity to share feedback, celebrate successes, and troubleshoot any challenges—such as scheduling conflicts, communication barriers, or uncertainty about how to move the relationship forward. Coordinators are available throughout the program year to provide support and guidance, ensuring that every participant has the resources needed to make the most of their mentorship experience.
How to Apply
If you are interested in becoming a mentor or mentee, we invite you to apply to the APA AZ Mentorship Program.
Application Deadline: October 3, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. AZT
https://bit.ly/APAAZMentorship25
Because space is limited, we encourage applicants to complete their forms thoughtfully to support the selection process.
Students: Please note that a faculty letter of recommendation is required. Letters must be emailed to mbgomez@asu.edu by the deadline in order for your application to be considered.
Contact
Questions? Please email the Mentorship Program Coordinator:
Matt Gomez
APA AZ Director-at-Large
mbgomez@asu.edu
APA AZ Mentorship Program Schedule
Each year’s Mentorship Program is made up of structured group gatherings and networking sessions, one-on-one events, and other individual opportunities which form as mentors and mentees work together. Students also receive regular opportunities to join APA AZ networking and education events. Events are held in-person and virtually.
Fall Session Events
- Thursday August 28, 2025 - APA AZ Mentorship Program Happy Hour – Networking and opportunities to connect with other cohort members and mentors following the ASU Fall Planning Practitioner Lecture. RSVP CLOSED
- Wednesday September 3 , 2025 at 5 pm - APA AZ Conference Opening Reception - Networking and opportunities to connect with other cohort members and mentors.
- September 25, 2025 5:30 pm – North Central Section Happy Hour – Join us at Arizona Wilderness in Downtown Phoenix (201 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, AZ 85004) for networking meet up.
- October 10, 2025 – Mentor pairings announced, introductions for mentors and mentees
- October 2025 - APA AZ Southern Section/Mentorship Program Meet Up - Join APA AZ’s Southern Section for a meet and greet in association with the mentorship program.
- December 2025 – APA AZ Holiday Networking Event – Join APA AZ Chapter members for a night of celebration, networking, and collaboration! Mentors and mentees alike grow relationships with other Chapter members and gain more information about APA AZ programs. (Location and Date TBD).
Spring Session Events
- Thursday January 15, 2026 - APA AZ Mentorship Program Happy Hour – Networking and opportunities to connect with other cohort members and mentors following the ASU Spring Planning Practitioner Lecture.
- Thursday February 26, 2026 at 4 pm - ASU Planning Career Meet & Mingle - Networking and opportunities to connect with other planners.
- April 2026 – APA AZ Mentorship Program Reception – Join Mentorship Program members for a night of celebration and networking! (Location and Date TBD).
Many more events are added to the APA AZ Calendar each month, and mentors and mentees meet often to explore professional opportunities and personal interests together throughout the year. Watch for updates on this page!