Be Mentored

The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen’s Mentor & Apprentice Program is open to artists of any age who desire to expand and advance their existing skills in a particular craft.

Program Overview

The intent of the program is to pair emerging artists with engaging mentors in which both parties mutually benefit. Our mentor program is designed to be self-directed. The apprentice and mentor work together on the goals. It’s an annual commitment with an option to renew.

Application/Pre-screening

• Quarterly deadline for application (due by March 1, June 1, September 1, December 1)
• Application that collects the following
  • Contact info
  • Field of Interest with description
  • Years of experience
  • Why are you interested in this program?
  • What is your objective (for example, learn how to make windsor chairs, how to manage a wholesale business or how to master dove-tailing)
• Reviewed by staff and education committee

Long-term objective vs. short-term goals

The apprentice (with consultation with mentor) determines one long-term objective. They then spell out short-term goals related to a 12-month timeline. Goals are things you’ll check off on your way to attaining your objective. The goals should stretch the apprentice’s existing abilities yet should be attainable within the format of this program.

Communication

Strong channels of communication and cooperative understanding of each other’s goals are needed to benefit both parties: mentor and apprentice. We encourage 1.5 hours per week of communication: written, electronic, telephone or in-person. We also recommend as much face-time as possible.

Distance is a major consideration, but can be overcome with a clear long-term objective.  Mentor/apprentice pairings determine their own schedules based on skill level, goals, distance between or other.

Apprentice requirements

• membership is required (student member rates available with valid ID)
• application does not guarantee entry into the program
• independent study is at the heart of this program: self-directed goals, mission and projects
• one year commitment
• recommended: 1.5 hours per week of communication (or in-person dialogue)
• work directly with the mentor at a mutually agreeable location
• expect an honest assessment of your work, both positive and negative
• optional: keep an active journal
• set objective and goals with mentor

Mentor requirements

• minimum of 3 to 5 years membership
• interest in furthering personal development through the education of others
• juried status preferred
• submit a resume/artist statement
• one year commitment
• recommended: 1.5 hours per week of communication (or in-person dialogue)
• mentor is expected to work directly with the apprentice at a mutually agreeable location
• set objective and goals with apprentice

Six-month check-in & discussion

Each mentor and apprentice is periodically checked on to ensure that goals and communication quotas are satisfactory for both parties. This is a great opportunity to adjust objectives and goals.  The intent of the six month check-in is to make any corrections necessary to continue to meet goals. Mentors and apprentices should take note of accomplishments and disappointments. This is an opportunity to share. Most check-ins are handled by staff and/or members of the education committee.

Requirement for completion

Many objectives will be completed in a one or two year timeframe. Some take longer to complete (for example, master leather-smithing). You’ve completed the program when you can answer yes to the question ‘Have I met my objective?’ It’s your decision if you want to continue the program by setting a new objective. A certificate of completion will apply to the work details covered.

How to get started

It’s easy to get involved in the program. Simply click the appropriate box below to submit your information and interest.

Questions?

Contact nick@pacrafts.org or call 717-673-0392.