“Welcome to Orion, where you can turn your life around!” Layne Norris exclaimed.
Being a mentor in Orion’s training program is a big responsibility. While mentors work one-on-one with participants in our training program, teaching both technical and soft skills, they also lead by example.
“I understand that we are a role model here,” Layne explained. “We have to hold ourselves to a very high standard so that people will want to emulate us.”
Layne Norris is a mentor in Orion’s Manufacturing Training program. He knows that he is part of something bigger than himself. The work that Orion mentors do helps to build self-esteem in our program participants. This is an essential building block that can change the course of someone’s life.
Mentors understand that everyone is different and that there is not a one-size solution that fits everybody. Mentors take a training course that prepares then to recognize diverse learning and communication styles. Layne said, “Finding the right way to get an idea across for each person is one of the most important things that we do.”
I look to give good feedback on positive progress to instill confidence. When participants learn to believe in their ability, they begin to understand that they have value and can contribute.
– Layne Norris / Orion Mentor
“I look to give good feedback on positive progress to instill confidence,” Layne reported. “When participants learn to believe in their ability, they begin to understand that they have value and can contribute.”
Mentors help each other by writing honest and candid weekly evaluations for each participant. This highlights what is working, as well as showing what still needs work. Layne stated, “It is important to take time to listen, not only to the participants, but also to other mentors. Good communication is the key for our success.”
Orion has a team in place to help the mentors and program participants, including vocational counselors, instructors and job developers. “I’m not by myself working with a participant,” Layne recognized. “I have a team, staff, and a company behind me. There is guidance and support to aid me in figuring out the best way to help someone through their challenge. I am not alone.”
“I feel very fortunate to work for a company that takes an initiative to help people,” Layne related. “Orion helps each person learn the skills that they need. I’m most proud of the all the people who come through our program. Watching them change and mature, and then ultimately seeing them go out and find a job – It’s what Orion is all about!”
