We know that breaking into tech can be daunting—especially without access to industry connections and support. At GDI, we create safe, empowering spaces where women and nonbinary adults can learn to code, build confidence, and most importantly, make those invaluable connections to achieve their goals.

We believe that the best way to do this is with mentors. That’s why, in honor of Women’s Month in March, we’re launching our inaugural Mentor-a-Thon on March 26th. This one-day event is dedicated to empowering the next generation of tech professionals. Our goal? 100 mentor matches in a single day. 

How will we do it? And what will the day look like? Join us on March 19th for a live opportunity to walk through the event, learn what to expect, and develop strategies to maximize your mentorship conversations. We'll answer your questions, talk you through logistics, and make sure you're ready and confident for this exciting day.  Whether you plan to mentor others or are seeking mentorship, this event is for everyone; all questions will be answered!  

Mentor-A-Thon: Prep Session Details:

📆 Date: Wednesday, March 19th (one week before the Mentor-A-Thon)

⏰ Time: 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm ET / 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm PT (one  hour)

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Mentor-A-Thon: Details 

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

• 12:00p ET / 9:00a PT: Event Kick-Off and Panel Conversation
• 1:00p ET / 10:00a PT:  Mentor Meet-Ups Start 
• 8:00p ET / 7:00p PT: Mentor Meet-Ups Wrap  

What to expect as a Mentee:

Before the event:  

• As you register, we will ask a few questions to learn about your interests and make a good match.
• You will receive a mentee packet two weeks before the event, including tips and insights into making the most of your match.
• You will also receive a calendar poll asking you to choose three times you are available throughout the event for your mentorship meeting.

During the event:

• The event will kick off with some opening remarks and a panel discussion of industry leaders sharing their career and mentor stories. 
• Once the panel is wrapped, you will either stay on Zoom or return at your meeting time.  When you log in for the meeting, you will be welcomed and sent into a Zoom room to meet your mentor.

After the event:

• You will receive a short survey to provide feedback on this event and our mentor matches.
• You will be invited to join us for future mentoring events and opportunities. 

What to Expect as a Mentor

We understand (and are excited about ) mentors with varying degrees of experience.  Do not be shy about considering yourself a mentor and sharing your career experience.  We'd love it if you have some professional experience in the technology field.  The minimum ask is for one 45-minute session, but you may volunteer for more sessions if you have time. 

Before the event:

• As you register, a few questions will be asked to help us ensure we place you in a successful match.
• You will receive both a video and materials designed to prepare for all levels of mentorship experience.
• We will host a mentor Q&A call a week before the event; this is not required but is available to all mentors. 
• You will also receive a calendar poll asking you to choose three times you are available throughout the event for your mentorship meeting. (You may volunteer for two mentor matches if you have 90 minutes to volunteer)

• The event will begin with opening remarks and a panel discussion of industry leaders sharing their career and mentor stories.

• Once the panel is wrapped, you will either stay on Zoom or return at your meeting time. When you log in for the meeting, you will be welcomed and sent into a Zoom room to meet your mentee.

After the event:

• You will receive a short survey to provide feedback on this event and our mentee match.
• You will be invited to join us for future mentoring events and opportunities. 

FAQs:

What if my schedule changes or I am no longer available

We ask that all participants do their best to give us 24 hours notice of changes; this will allow us to reassign mentors and mentees to ensure everyone has a great experience.

My office would like to volunteer as a group to mentor people during a time block. Is that possible?

We would love to have corporate volunteers as mentors and are happy to work with you to host a unique mentor prep session (if needed); we are so glad to do our best to schedule a group of mentors for a block of time.  Please reach out to Katie@girldevelopit.com to make arrangements.

I am not available on the day of this event. Can I help out in other ways?

We are building a long-term mentoring program to support women and non-binary individuals pivoting into technology. This event is just the kickoff. To help develop this program, we could use financial support and mentors throughout the year.   Please email Programs@girldevelopit.com and ask to be on our mentor list.

I don't think I'm ready for this event. My career goals are unclear, and I am nervous to jump in without being sure what I will get out of it.

To quote our community, "Do the thing"—join us and spend time with a mentor exploring your thoughts. Sometimes, getting out of our heads and getting a new perspective on our thoughts is beyond valuable. This is a short mentor engagement and a great way to test ideas, get quick feedback, and generate new thoughts.  

I love this event idea but am looking for a deeper mentor (or mentee) connection.  Is there an option to do more than this event?

Yes, starting in April, you can sign up to be matched in a three-month mentorship program.  You will be matched with a pre-selected mentor/mentee to achieve a goal (i.e., find a job, navigate career transition, land the promotion, build a project). The commitment is 6 meetings in three months.  Follow this link for more information.

If you have any additional questions, please email Programs@girldevelopit.com