ACS Launches Mentoring Program in Western Australia
Perth, Western Australia - 8 February 2012:The ACS (Australian Computer Society) today launched its Mentoring Program for Western Australian ACS members.
The ACS Mentoring Program will improve career development opportunities for members who are looking for career guidance in the ICT industry by matching them with leading industry veterans in a structured support program.
Alan Patterson, ACS Chief Executive Officer said “Mentoring is a vital part of professional development but only succeeds when designed with an understanding of the kind of development professionals want and need to have to keep ahead of ongoing and rapid technology change.”
The ACS Mentoring program is unique in that it was developed in partnership with ACS members who are in the early stages of their careers and for those who want to change career direction.
“There are thousands of books on leadership, but leadership cannot be learnt out of a book without real time guidance,” said Mr. Patterson, “This program will accelerate the career of an ICT professional by matching them with a highly knowledgeable mentor with significant experience in their desired field of endeavour.
ACS Western Australia Chair, David Clarke, himself an ACS mentor, added “In today’s fast changing pace of technology, the mentoring program is an effective way to develop skills and transfer knowledge from experienced members to less experienced members.
“As a mentor, I find it gratifying to see the results from a successful engagement with a mentee and to observe the improvement and change. “Mentoring benefits everyone involved. Mentors have an opportunity to support their profession by helping mentees to succeed. Mentees are able to learn and gain knowledge and skills from an experienced member who has travelled the path before them.
The ACS Mentoring Program will make a difference to the lives of future ICT professionals and attract more people to consider a career in ICT, an area where Australia faces ongoing demand,” said Mr Clarke.
The ACS mentoring program provides access to a wealth of industry knowledge through regular, one to one dialogue. Together, mentors and mentees set goals and work through a planned approach. After six months in the program, a mentee will be well placed to understand professional and leadership requirements typical in ICT today.
For more information, or to apply for the ACS Mentoring Program, visit www.acs.org.au/mentoring or contact Andy Jenkins, ACS WA Branch Manager on 08 9470 4878.
Media information:
Seni Murni
ACS PR & Special Projects Executive
02 9299 3666 or 0410 029 706
seni.murni@acs.org.au
Sarah-Jane Williams
Launch Group
02 9492 1040 or 0409 362 672
sarahjane@launchgroup.com.au
About the ACS:
The ACS (Australian Computer Society) is the recognised professional association for those working in Information and Communications Technology, seeking to raise the standing of ICT professionals and represent their views to government, industry and the community. A member of the Australian Council of Professions, the ACS is the guardian of professional ethics and standards in the ICT sector, committed to ensuring the beneficial use of ICT for all Australians. It provides both members and non-members with opportunities for professional education, networking and certification, as well as enabling them to contribute to the development of their profession. Visit www.acs.org.au for more information.