To Oshkosh and Beyond: The Power of Mentorship
This article is part editorial, part personal letter to my son Gareth, who shares my passion for aviation. It's a story about dreams, mentorship, and the paths we choose to take in life.
This past week, the skies over Oshkosh, Wisconsin, have been abuzz with activity as airplanes from all over the country descended for the annual EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. This event, affectionately known as Oshkosh, transforms the sky into the busiest airspace in the world every July. It is an extraordinary spectacle, attracting aviation enthusiasts from every corner of the globe.
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) organizes this remarkable airshow at Wittman Regional Airport. Its roots trace back to 1953, when Paul Poberezny started it in his basement. What began as a small gathering has since grown into the largest airshow of its kind worldwide, now drawing over 600,000 people and nearly 10,000 aircraft annually.
As a child, I was captivated by the grandeur of Oshkosh. Watching the planes soar and learning about the event's rich history instilled in me a profound passion for aviation. I dreamed of becoming a pilot, inspired by the innovation and camaraderie that Oshkosh epitomized. However, despite my enthusiasm, I faced a significant challenge: I never had a good mentor to guide me through the process.
While I eventually earned my private pilot's license by bootstrapping my way through the necessary steps, I now realize that this was a far cry from having a structured path. Mentorship could have provided me with the guidance and support needed to gain the skills and education to become a commercial pilot. Mentorship is a critical element in not only aviation but all professions, including healthcare.
In healthcare, we often discuss the pressing physician shortage and the urgent need for experienced professionals to guide the next generation. Those of us already in healthcare have a duty to pay it forward and help aspiring physicians navigate their paths. Effective mentors provide a framework for success, offering encouragement, opening doors, and serving as positive examples. They help mentees identify their strengths, set achievable goals, and develop the skills needed for independent thinking.
As physicians, especially in this new age of AI and technology, we need to remember the reasons we ourselves went into healthcare. Our love for human interaction and the emotional rewards that come from healing and problem-solving are essential aspects of our profession. These need to be taught and shared with young people. Becoming a physician is much more than just passing examinations and being okay with the sight of blood, which are actually very small parts of the profession despite what is portrayed on TV.
Mentoring is not instinctively useful to every professional, and formal training in how to mentor is rare. However, the GREAT model offers a framework to develop mentoring skills. This model includes:
Effective mentoring is essential for developing the next generation of professionals in any field. In healthcare, it is particularly vital, given the complexities and challenges of the profession. Intentional mentoring, which is deliberate and purposeful, can help relieve stress and anxiety, providing reassurance and support along the way. It can also create a positive feedback loop, fostering a culture of mentoring that benefits both mentors and mentees.
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Despite the recognized benefits, mentoring programs often fall short for various reasons, including time constraints and a lack of formal recognition for mentors. However, the rewards of effective mentoring are significant. Mentees gain confidence, reduced stress, and more career satisfaction, while mentors experience the fulfillment of contributing to their mentees' growth and success.
Mentorship is not only beneficial in healthcare but across all professions. It is about more than just imparting knowledge. Mentorship provides the support and guidance necessary to help the next generation achieve their dreams. It helps to build a foundation of trust, encourages professional and personal growth, and fosters a sense of community and belonging.
Gareth, I see in you the same passion for aviation that I had as a child. My hope for you is that you find mentors who can guide you, whether you choose to pursue a career as a pilot or any other path that excites you. Mentorship will provide you with the insights and support to make your journey smoother and more fulfilling.
One day, I dream of us flying together to Oshkosh, sharing the joy and wonder of the airshow that inspired me so many years ago. But no matter what path you choose to follow, I will always love and support you. After all, the essence of any profession lies in the pursuit of knowledge, dedication to excellence, and the desire to help others.
Remember, mentorship in aviation, healthcare, or any field is about providing the support and guidance necessary to help the next generation achieve their dreams. And who knows? Maybe someday, you will pay it forward, guiding others as they embark on their own journeys.
P.S. For those of you who need to see more amazing photos of the airshow, I’m providing a link to feed your aviation passion! ???? Enjoy! Oshkosh Photos
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