ISC2 Chicago Chapter Mentorship Pilot Program

The ISC2 Chicago Chapter Mentorship Pilot Program is designed to connect experienced cybersecurity professionals with chapter members who are looking to grow, transition into the field, or take the next step in their careers.

This pilot program will run for 3 months, beginning June 8 and concluding around September 9. During that time, selected mentors and mentees will be paired 1:1 based on shared interests, career goals, and areas of focus.

The goal of this program is to create meaningful professional connections and provide practical, real-world guidance through structured mentorship.

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Important Notes

  • This is a pilot program, so space is limited
  • Participation may be limited and/or lottery-based
  • All participants must be current ISC2 Chicago Chapter members
  • Matches will be made based on participant goals, interests, and program capacity
  • Selected participants will be contacted with next steps before the kickoff date

Program Overview

  • Program format: 1:1 mentor and mentee matching
  • Program length: 3 months
  • Kickoff date: June 8
  • Expected cadence: At least 1 meeting per month
  • Estimated time commitment: Approximately 2–3 hours per month
  • Pilot format: Participation may be limited and selection may be lottery-based

This is a pilot program, which means we are intentionally starting small so we can learn from the experience, gather feedback, and improve future cohorts.

Who Should Apply?

This program is intended for active ISC2 Chicago Chapter members who want to either:

  • Give back by mentoring others in the cybersecurity community
  • Receive guidance as they grow their skills, navigate career decisions, or work toward entering or advancing in cybersecurity

Please note that participants must be current ISC2 Chicago Chapter members to be eligible.

For Mentees

Whether you are early in your career, transitioning into cybersecurity, working toward certification, or looking to level up professionally, this program is designed to support your growth.

As a mentee, you will be matched with a mentor based on your goals and interests.

Mentee Eligibility

To participate as a mentee, you must:

  • Be an active member of the ISC2 Chicago Chapter
  • Be willing to participate in the program for the full 3-month duration
  • Be available to meet with your mentor at least once per month
  • Commit approximately 2–3 hours per month
  • Demonstrate professional and respectful behavior throughout the program
  • Be open to providing feedback at the end of the program

Mentee Expectations

Mentees are expected to:

  • Come prepared with questions, goals, or discussion topics for each meeting
  • Be responsive and engaged throughout the program
  • Take ownership of their own growth and development
  • Respect the mentor’s time and expertise
  • Maintain professionalism and confidentiality in all discussions
  • Submit program feedback to help improve future mentorship cohorts

What You Can Expect from the Program

Your mentor may support you with topics such as:

  • Career guidance
  • Professional development
  • Resume reviews
  • Mock interviews
  • Networking advice
  • Industry perspective and insights
  • General guidance on developing skills and confidence in cybersecurity

Please note that mentors are not obligated to provide job placement or employment opportunities.

For Mentors

Mentors play a key role in helping chapter members grow, build confidence, and navigate the cybersecurity profession. If you have industry experience and want to support others in a meaningful way, we encourage you to apply.

Mentor Expectations

Mentors selected for the pilot program will be expected to:

  • Commit to mentoring activities for the full 3-month program
  • Meet with their assigned mentee a minimum of once per month
  • Dedicate approximately 2–3 hours per month
  • Take the primary role in initiating contact and helping establish the mentoring relationship
  • Share professional insights, industry experience, and practical guidance
  • Model professional behavior throughout the program
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding all mentee conversations and career-related details

Scope of the Mentor Role

Mentors are encouraged to support mentees by:

  • Sharing industry experience
  • Offering career guidance
  • Conducting mock interviews
  • Reviewing resumes
  • Helping mentees build skills, confidence, and professional direction

Mentors are not expected to find jobs or job opportunities for mentees.

The mentorship relationship is intended to last for the defined 3-month program period. Any continuation beyond that timeframe is optional and based on mutual agreement between mentor and mentee.

What’s in It for Mentors?

Mentors may also benefit from participating by:

  • Giving back to the local cybersecurity community
  • Supporting the professional growth of chapter members
  • Earning CPE credits for eligible mentoring activities toward ISC2 or other security certifications
  • Being recognized as a volunteer of the ISC2 Chicago Chapter
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Thank You

Thank you for supporting the ISC2 Chicago Chapter and helping us build a stronger, more connected cybersecurity community.