How This Mentorship Program Helps Mentees Gain Career Momentum

In the world of electrical distribution, navigating career challenges and capitalizing on opportunities can feel overwhelming. But what if you had a seasoned confidant by your side, offering guidance and sharing the wisdom gained from years of experience? That's the power of a mentorship program. 

Sonepar's new mentorship program, Momentum, aims to help participants progress and grow in their careers. The six-month-long program benefits mentees, mentors, and the organization by facilitating knowledge transfer, allyship, and increasing organizational commitment through lasting relationships. The inaugural group of 18 mentees gathered at Sonepar's U.S. headquarters in Charleston, South Carolina, to begin their journey.

During the kickoff event, mentees were encouraged to reflect on their professional development goals, set short- and long-term career goals, and learn how to gain the maximum benefit from mentor relationships. The event included panels, presentations, and networking opportunities. 

Mentors and mentees participating in the Momentum mentorship program. Photos courtesy of Sonepar USA.

The highlight of the trip? A speed networking session rotating mentees through groups of OpCo presidents and executive leaders. Want to learn more about Momentum? In the next section, we’ll hear from people who took part in this opportunity.

What mentees said about this kick-off.

“I had the opportunity to participate in Sonepar USA's Momentum Mentorship Program and kickoff event this week, and I am still reflecting on the experiences shared and the connections made. There are stellar women across all functions in Sonepar and the possibilities are endless for their greatness. Not only did we discuss professional development and career goals, but we also made lasting connections and fueled an even brighter future for everyone involved. What a happy International Women's Day!” — Maria Esqueda, Marketing Communications Manager at Crawford Electric Supply

“Happy International Women's Day! Today, I am feeling incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have participated in the Sonepar USA Momentum Mentorship Program over the last two days. Being a woman in a male-dominated industry can present its challenges, but the dedication and talent displayed by this group of women is truly inspiring. We are fortunate to have them, as well as the unwavering support of the Sonepar leadership team.” — Alexa (Jeffrey) Powell, Branch Manager at Codale Electric Supply

Looking to kickstart your career at a company that will support you?

Due to the success of Momentum, Sonepar is continuing this program, with the next cohort beginning in the fall. And that’s just the start of how Sonepar fosters career development!

Sonepar also supports associates’ career development through internal leadership programs and access to extensive training resources for a wide variety of job functions. A few of these professional development programs include the Sonepar Training for Emerging Professionals (STEP), Sonepar Junior Committee (SJC), iLead, iManage, INSIGHTS, Leadership Acceleration Program (LeAP), NAED Leadership Program, Sonepar Lighting Academy, and Executive Coaching and Sonepar Leadership Program (SLP). 

In addition to these dedicated courses, all associates at Sonepar in the U.S. have access to thousands of online, self-service training courses through providers like LinkedIn Learning and OpenSesame. Sonepar also offers on-demand virtual workshops that are interactive, tailored to their business, and led by in-house experts. 

So, if you’re looking to be supported in your career growth — via mentorship and beyond — Sonepar is a great place for you to be!

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