AFE & MentorNet Partner to Mentor Students Toward Careers in Facilities Engineering

The Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE) has partnered with MentorNet to connect AFE members with students aspiring to build careers in facilities engineering, maintenance, and operations.

"This initiative underscores our commitment to nurturing the next generation of facilities professionals," says Kate Kerrigan, chair of the AFE Foundation. "We are honored that MentorNet, a leader in student mentorship, joins us in guiding those who choose this vital field."

AFE is the first organization within the facilities engineering and operations community to collaborate with MentorNet, an established program that pairs students—especially from underrepresented groups—with mentors across engineering, mathematics, computer science, physical and life sciences, and technology disciplines. Eligible participants include community college, undergraduate, graduate, postdoctoral, and early‑career faculty students.

The AFE Foundation, dedicated to advancing the profession through education, research, and community service, has funded the MentorNet initiative.

David Porush, CEO of MentorNet, notes the alignment of the two organizations: "MentorNet excels at connecting experienced professionals with students, while AFE is a pillar of the facilities engineering community. Together, we’re poised to inspire and support the next wave of experts in this field."

MentorNet reports that over 80% of its mentors recommend the e‑mentoring program to peers. The system automatically matches mentors to protégés and guides the relationship for eight months via email, requiring an average commitment of just 15 minutes per week.

For additional information about the AFE Foundation, contact Jeanine Salifou at 571‑203‑7239.

About The AFE Foundation
The AFE Foundation promotes the facilities engineering profession through education, research, training, and community service. It offers scholarships for AFE certification programs and is developing a scholarship pathway for college students interested in facilities‑related fields. The foundation also raises the profile of facilities engineers by supporting community initiatives and disseminating valuable resources via its website at www.Foundation4afe.org.

About The Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE)
AFE is the premier organization for facilities engineers and operations professionals. The association unites a broad community that advocates for efficient operation and maintenance of complex building systems, including high‑performance and sustainable technologies. AFE empowers members through networking, knowledge sharing, training, certification, and resources for career advancement, while promoting the profession within academia and the wider engineering community. Learn more at www.afe.org.

About MentorNet
MentorNet aims to advance individuals and society by fostering a diversified, talented global workforce in engineering and related sciences. Its structured e‑mentoring program provides wide access and support, leveraging an extensive network of organizations and volunteers to serve thousands of protégés annually while maintaining low costs for companies and campuses.