On Thursday 27 June, WSP kindly hosted CIHT North West’s Meet the Mentor event in their Manchester city centre office, on First Street.

The CIHT regional committee members and the presenters felt that, with the nature of the event, it needed face to face interaction and opted for an early morning breakfast session. The downside was the need to set early alarm clocks and that attendees would arrive to work later than normal but the benefit was the early morning enthusiasm and pastries and coffee that were provided.

Thank you to WSP for supporting the event.

The event was hosted by James Shanks and Adam Leary, both Technical Directors at WSP and both experienced mentors with a specific focus on the guidance of mentees to Chartered TPP. Approx. 20 members and non-members attended, at various stages of their careers, from students to Principal/ Director level Transport Planners/ Engineers, proving that the event was of interest to a wide audience.

The presentation included a reminder of the routes to Chartership before focusing on why Mentoring is important, what makes a good Mentor, Mentor responsibilities, Mentoring best practice and how to find a Mentor. The level of interaction/ engagement throughout the session was fantastic to see and it meant that no one left with questions unanswered.

Attendees we’re keen to continue discussions amongst themselves beyond the session and suggested that a support network be formed, so the benefits of the CPD event are now going way beyond what was expected and seemingly only just beginning for those interested in joining the group.

If anyone would like to join a North West support group for pursuing TPP Chartership with the CIHT please do get in touch with regions@ciht.org.uk 

A huge thanks to our speakers, James and Adam and to WSP for supporting the event.