NABEF has redesigned the Connections Mentoring program in an effort to provide career development opportunities to a greater pool of broadcast professionals.

The program is designed to provide talented broadcasters who are women and people of color in the industry with a mentor to assist them with navigating their career. Initially a program for middle managers only, entry-level candidates with at least three years experience are now eligible to apply.

Over the course of a year, the fellows will have the opportunity to expand their industry knowledge and receive career development advice from their mentor. In turn, the mentors will gain insight into the issues facing broadcast professionals at the entry and middle ranks of the industry.

Now in its third year, the program has a 60 percent promotion rate among participants.

“We are proud of the fact that many of the individuals who participate in this program are recognized within their companies and the industry as the next generation of leaders,” said Marcellus Alexander, president, NABEF. “A lot of them are promoted while still participating in the program.”

Up to 50 professionals will be selected as Connections Fellows to participate in the yearlong initiative. The fellows will be paired in mentoring partnerships with broadcasters at a senior level.

The fellowship will include a series of webinars on leadership and industry-related topics, access to an interactive community with career development resources and reinforcement from a mentoring expert to help establish the mentoring partnership.

There is no cost to participate in the program. The National Association of Broadcasters and the McCormick Tribune Foundation provide funding for the program. The deadline to apply is May 15, 2009. For more information or to apply, click here or contact Michelle Duke at (202) 429-5361.