expresso: mentorship

For Ben, it’s all about taking the initiative, showing a willingness to improve their performance and broadening their knowledge. “Derek is a very motivated individual,” Ben states. “He communicates well. If he sees a problem, he calls it out right away and works with the team to find solutions. That’s what we like to see.” As with any relationship, sharing knowledge is often a two-way street.

Ben Weiss (right) and Derek Chan (left)

People with different skillsets have a lot to offer to the other, sometimes in unexpected ways. “Ben came into the lunch room pondering his wrist,” recalls Derek. “His wife had bought him a new smartwatch, one of those complicated ones with more features than anyone can use. Fortunately, having one myself, I was able to turn the tables for once and offer my advice. With my help, he can now see the solar system from his watch. It was great.” There are times where individuals go decade long careers without realizing that they can have a mentor beside them, supporting their growth and cultivating opportunities to excel. However, this was not the case for Derek. For him, within six months of his mentorship with Ben, he received invaluable support and advice to become well-equipped for obtaining his professional engineering designation. At other times, he was able to return the favor and share his knowledge with his mentor, to configure the vastness of the solar system from his watch. The space between their current positions may have been far, but their willingness to learn from each other was constantly in orbit with one another.

WHEN YOU’RE HONEST ABOUT YOUR SHORTCOMINGS, YOU HAVE A CHANCE TO MAKE A POSITIVE CHANGE.” Derek on Ben’s open exchange of constructive criticism and feedback

MENTORSHIP | 9