Bridging academia and industry through a vibrant mentoring program

A valuable relationship

The Master in Management, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (MTE) offers a dynamic mentoring program to enhance student development. Launched in 2010, the initiative has evolved, fostering valuable interactions between successive student generations and industry mentors.

The kick-off event was introduced by Eugène de Groot (head of Executive Education and Lecturer of the course Applied Corporate & Industry Analysis) who reminded the participants how valuable - for both mentors and mentees -the mentoring relationship is. Through this program, students receive guidance, build networks, and gain insights into real-world challenges, contributing to a holistic learning experience that bridges academia and industry, while mentors get the satisfaction of witnessing and supporting students’ success and development.

The evening provided an excellent opportunity for students and mentors to get to know each other before embarking on their mentee/mentor journey for the rest of the year—a fantastic chance for students to refine their networking skills.

Inspiring feedback from participants

This year, over 40 motivated professionals from various industries renewed their commitment as mentors or joined the program for the first time. Among them are many MTE and EMBA alumni eager to give back by mentoring the new generation while maintaining a strong connection with EPFL.

And what better way to start the event than inviting mentors and former mentees on stage to share their experiences of the program? Gaétan Hervé (mentor since 2010), Yves Baudet (MTE alumni 2017 and mentor since 2020), and Clément Barberis (MTE Alumni 2020 and new mentor) provided participants with different but complementary feedback on the program benefits. They encouraged both mentors and mentees to embrace the diversity of industries, reinforcing that the MTE mentoring program is not just a path to professional growth but also a gateway to discovering the joy in the journey of learning and collaboration.

Former mentees, Jonas Schweiger and Aleksa Meslac also offered their insights. Their collective advice echoes a common thread—proactive communication is key to a successful mentorship experience. Encouraging their peers, they emphasized the importance of staying open-minded and curious throughout the mentoring relationship and taking every opportunity to develop one’s network during the upcoming events.

In essence, their testimonials set a positive tone for the upcoming year, inspiring incoming MTE students and reminding mentors of the meaningful contributions they make to the academic and professional development of the next generation.

Haoua Mahmoudi, the dedicated coordinator for the mentoring program and internship, is instrumental in shaping the success of this dynamic platform. Her commitment ensures a collaborative and nurturing environment, fostering enduring connections between students and seasoned mentors.

I joined the MTE section and its mentoring program last year, and this is my second edition of the program. In this role, I strive to create a meaningful experience for all involved, bringing mentors and mentees together, planning engaging events, and maintaining seamless communication. Collaborating with committed mentors and enthusiastic mentees has truly made this journey enjoyable. Being involved in a program that offers such a fantastic opportunity for students to develop their network, gain exposure to the industry, and enhance their skills adds another layer of significance.

The MTE section always welcomes new mentors interested in joining the program. Please contact Haoua Mahmoudi for more information.