Become a Mentor

One Transaction. One Profile. Dual Membership. Join Both.

Dr. JT (Jiatian) Chen

College Relations Director

PURPOSE

The Kern County SHRM Mentorship Program is designed to help grow the next generation of HR professionals in Kern County by connecting experienced HR practitioners with motivated college students who are interested in pursuing careers in HR. Through meaningful one-on-one relationships, the program supports students as they explore and prepare for the HR field.

Mentors benefit from the program by having the opportunity to:

  • Support and guide students as they begin their HR careers
  • Connect with potential interns and future hires for their organizations
  • Give back to and strengthen the HR community in Kern County

ELIGIBILITY

To become a Kern County SHRM Mentor, an HR professional:

  • Must have an active membership.
  • Must actively participate and support Kern County SHRM events.
  • Must be a HR practitioner with at least five years’ experience in HR or related roles.
  • Must agree to and abide by the standards outlined in the Mentor Code of Conduct.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Deadline to apply, January 26, 2026 

Mentor Application
Ready to inspire future HR leaders? Complete this application to join our mentorship program and support students as they explore career paths, build confidence, and develop their professional skills.
Name
Optional
Areas of expertise (check all that apply)
(Include relevant experience, achievements, strengths, and what you bring to a mentor role.)
Reference Name
One (1) reference is required. The reference may be an individual on the Kern County SHRM Board, but this is not required or expected.

2025 Mentorship Program

“We proudly wrapped up the 2025 KCSHRM Mentorship Program. This year, eight dedicated HR professionals were paired with motivated business students from Cal State Bakersfield. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the personal and professional growth of each student mentee as they learned from their mentors and engaged in meaningful conversations about their future in HR. Many shared their gratitude for the experience and gave special thanks to their mentors and the program organizers on social media.

 

As the College Relations Director of KCSHRM, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you:

To our mentors (Jaclyn Andrade, Lindsey Firman, Jennifer Hagenston, Tanya Hutson, Cynthia Moreno, Angie Nunez, Christy Parker, Cherrity Ricks) – THANK YOU for your time, guidance, and generosity. Your mentorship has made a lasting impact on your mentees and on the future of the HR community here in Bakersfield and Kern County.

 

To our mentees – You are the next generation of HR leaders! We hope KCSHRM continues to be a place where you find support, knowledge, and community as you launch your HR careers.

We’re already looking forward to next year’s program—and we hope even more of you will join us on this rewarding journey!” College Relations Director, Dr. J.T Chen