INL mentors: Exceptional guides on the path to success

By Emi Walker for National University Programs

Many new employees, students and researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have benefited from the guidance of mentors. Our official roster of mentors includes over 100 experts who have assisted countless newcomers. In fact, it doesn’t have to be a formal designation; we can all be a mentor to others. However, as the workforce grows, the lab requires more mentors to facilitate training and support.

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To celebrate the National Mentoring Day, which is observed across the globe each year on Oct. 27, we want to spotlight a selection of our exceptional mentors.

Jana Richens, a veteran mentor working with the Workforce Development team in National and Homeland Security, was honored as the lab’s Mentor of the Year last year, sharing the award with Eleanor Taylor. This year, she received an honorable mention for the award. Richens’ interns hold her in high esteem, and their feedback reflects her dedication and exceptional support:

"Jana Richens has been an amazing mentor this summer. Despite her busy schedule, she always finds time for each of her 17 interns. She exhibits a genuine personal interest in their development and encourages them to make the most of the opportunities at INL."

"Jana is the best mentor I've ever had. Her enthusiasm and positivity brighten up the entire office. She consistently checks in on us, ensuring our well-being, and if any challenges arise, she does her utmost to address them. She does an incredible job every day, providing exceptional guidance to her interns."

Curtis Isaiah Barlow, also a member of the Workforce Development team, showcased his talent as a first-year mentor. He was the runner-up for the Mentor of the Year award and made a lasting impact on his mentees:

"My mentor is new to mentoring, but he has truly excelled in the role. He has created a welcoming environment for all of us interns. He consistently emphasizes his desire for our success and isn't afraid to be vulnerable, setting an exemplary standard for a mentor. Instead of treating us as mere interns, he values us as valuable team members."

Bradly Pence, a manager with Instrumentation and Control, was this year’s Mentor of the Year. Here’s what his mentees had to say about his work:

"...He has been supportive in every way I needed and willingly answered numerous questions. He made me feel like part of the team and turned my internship into a remarkable experience."

"Brad effectively communicates with his team in a professional manner. When I inquire about the functioning of something, Brad provides in-depth explanations, delving into the workings and the underlying reasons. He is an exceptional communicator, an outstanding leader, an excellent technician and an even better mentor."

Pence was honored to win the award. "Being named Mentor of the Year for the INL Internship Program gives me a sense of gratitude and accomplishment,” he said. “It validates the impact that we have on our student interns’ professional growth and the meaningful relationships we have the opportunity to build. It inspires me to continue investing in the development of new talents and helping them navigate their early careers. It's a reminder of the importance of mentorship and the difference it can make in shaping someone's future."

Eric Dufek, a manager with Energy and Environment Science and Technology, received the first INL Postdoc Mentor of the Year award. Pete Barnes wrote in his nomination, "Dr. Eric Dufek exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding postdoc mentor. His dedication to my professional development, combined with his insightful guidance, has profoundly influenced my career path."

Dufek highlights the importance of being available and responsive. In addition, he is not sure if there is a secret to being a good mentor, “but being honest, professional, approachable and engaging helps the process,” he said. “There are many ways to provide feedback and help others out and each situation should be treated differently. I personally like to treat each opportunity with an open mind so that I can hopefully learn something as well.”

Gregory Holmbeck, staff scientist and director of the INL Center for Radiation Chemistry Research, mentored Jacy Conrad, this year’s Outstanding Postdoc of the Year. Holmbeck plays an active role as a mentor, and Conrad's success stands as a testament to his guidance. Holmbeck said, "The mentor's role is to promote success in the mentee, not the other way around."

Holmbeck said the secret to being a good mentor is simple. "Enjoy the experience,” he said. “Being a mentor is a privilege that presents a golden opportunity to nurture the next generation of researchers."

Boopathy Kombaiah, a nuclear research facility engineer at the Materials and Fuels Complex, received an honorable mention for the Postdoc Mentor of the Year. His advice for potential mentors is “keeping professional growth of the mentee as the highest priority in every action by mentors,” and “treating my mentee as I expected to be treated when I was a mentee.”

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The impact of mentors is evident in the exceptional achievements and testimonials of mentees. From Richens' unwavering commitment to her interns to Barlow's inclusive and supportive approach, these mentors exemplify the qualities that make them outstanding guides. Pence's effective communication and Dufek's dedication to postdoc mentoring further highlight the transformative power of mentorship.

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Holmbeck's belief in nurturing the next generation of researchers and Kombaiah’s work to pass on his knowledge demonstrate the diverse range of mentors and their influence in various roles within the organization.

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As we celebrate National Mentoring Day, let’s recognize and appreciate the mentors who have dedicated their time and expertise to guide others. Their tireless efforts contribute to the continuous growth and success of individuals within the lab and across the globe.

Resources for mentors

About Idaho National Laboratory

Battelle Energy Alliance manages INL for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Nuclear Energy. INL is the nation’s center for nuclear energy research and development, and also performs research in each of DOE’s strategic goal areas: energy, national security, science and the environment. For more information, visit inl.gov. Follow us on social media:?Twitter,?Facebook,?Instagram?and?LinkedIn.