Leadership & Mentoring Network
Connecting Students and Industry Professionals
Welcome to the Leadership & Mentoring Network - a unique opportunity for Clemson undergraduate students in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences (SCEEES) to connect with passionate alumni and industry professionals.
This 10-month, structured mentoring program pairs sophomore and junior students with professionals in their field of interest to support career exploration, transition into industry, goal-setting, and personal growth.
Why Join the Network?
The Leadership & Mentoring Network is designed to benefit both students and mentors by creating meaningful, professional relationships rooted in shared goals, industries, and aspirations.
As a student mentee, you will:
- Receive career advice directly from people working in the field.
- Learn about different industries, job roles, and what to expect after graduation.
- Build a network of connections to support job searches and graduate school decisions.
- Develop confidence and communication skills.
- Form a lasting mentoring relationship that may extend beyond graduation.
As a mentor, you will:
- Give back to Clemson by supporting the next generation of engineers and applied scientists.
- Make a lasting impact on a student’s academic and professional journey.
- Share your expertise and industry insights in a structured, rewarding way.
- Reconnect with the university and fellow alumni through a meaningful volunteer opportunity.
- Gain fresh perspectives from students preparing to enter your field.
How to Apply
Student Mentee Application
Opens: August 20, 2025
Deadline: 11:59 pm on September 30, 2025
Spots are limited - Early Applications are Highly Encouraged
Student ApplicationClemson Alumni & Industry Professionals
Make a difference in a student’s journey by sharing your experience and insight. Apply today or contact Corey Ellison to schedule a meeting to learn more.
Mentor ApplicationTimeline and Commitment
The Leadership & Mentoring Network runs from September 2025 to April 2026.
Application & Selection
Apply early! Mentor Applications close Aug 31. Student Applications (closes Sept 30) will be reviewed each week and student applicants notified of acceptance on a rolling basis.
Orientation & Kickoff
- Mentor Orientation - September 12, 2025
- Student Mentee Orientation - October 5, 2025
Matching & 1st Connection
Mentor-Student Mentee Matching Event - October 24, 2025
Mentoring Journey
Mentors and student mentees connect monthly from November to April, either virtually or in person.
Celebration & Reflection
End of Experience Celebration - April 2026
Common Questions and Answers
One of the most common questions we get is, "Who can participate in the Leadership and Mentoring Network program?"
Sophomore or Junior students in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences. This includes undergraduates with Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Biosystems Engineering, and Geology majors.
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Does the program have an associated cost?
We’re excited to offer students the chance to participate at absolutely no cost—making it easier than ever to get involved.
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Can I participate if I have a minor within SCEEES?
Currently, participation is available to undergraduate students whose major is listed within SCEEES. We anticipate expanding opportunities within the program in the future.
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Can graduate students within SCEEES participate?
Currently, the program is available only to undergraduate students majoring within SCEEES, but we are exploring ways to expand the program in the future.
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How are students matched with mentors?
Students are matched based on a variety of criteria, including program area, emphasis area, post-graduation industry focus, and interests communicated in the Student Mentee Application and the Mentor Application.
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How many times do I need to meet with my mentor?
Over the 10-month program, you should plan to meet with your mentor, either in person or virtually, at least once a month. The time and date of your meetings will be jointly determined between you and your mentor. Times of meetings will vary based on your collective availability and preference throughout the experience.
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Do I have to meet in person?
Once matched, you will coordinate your meeting schedule with your mentor. These meetings can take place either in-person or virtually, based on your joint preferences and availability. If meeting in person, SCEEES can assist with booking meeting spaces on campus. Please just reach out to Corey Ellison to secure a space.
Meet the 2025-2026 Mentors
| Name | Alumni | Employer | Role or Job Title | Major in School |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suzanne Aultman | Yes | Metromont | Vice President of Engineering | Civil Engineering |
| Mark Boyajian | No | CGI | Executive Vice President | Computer Science |
| Marshall Brown | No | ACM Chemistries, Inc | President/CEO | Civil Engineering |
| Bethany Byrd | Yes | KCI Technologies | Project Engineer 1 | Environmental Engineering |
| Jeff Case | Yes | Greenville Water | Engineering Project Manager | Environmental Engineering |
| Mike Caston | No | Public Service Commission of South Carolina | Commissioner, Third District | Civil Engineering |
| Abbas A. Fiuzat | No | Self | Principal Engineer | Civil Engineering |
| Olivia Flynn | Yes | Hazen and Sawyer | Associate Vice President | Environmental Engineering |
| Herb Gilliam | Yes | Johnson, Laschober, & Associates | Vice President, Project Manager | Civil Engineering |
| Alaina Hellofs | Yes | Black and Veatch | Civil Engineer | Environmental Engineering |
| Pat Racey | Yes | Racey Engineering, PLLC | Founder and Principal | Civil Engineering |
| Ben Robertson | Yes | Shear Structural | Structural Project Manager | Civil Engineering |
| Tom Rochester | Yes | Retired | Owner and President SEAS | Civil Engineering |
| Blake Rodgers | Yes | Goldie Associates | Senior Engineer | Environmental Engineering |
| Ed Rose | No | Mill Rock Capital | Partner | Civil Engineering |
| Mike Smith | Yes | Smith Environmental Consultants Inc. | Owner / President | Environmental Engineering |
| Munir Taherbhai | Yes | Mahamitra Group | Owner | Industrial Engineering |
| George Wyatt | Yes | Palmetto Engineering & Consulting, Inc. | CEO | Electrical Engineering, Business Administration |
Powered by Clemson Connections
This program is a pilot program of the Leadership & Mentoring Network. It is proudly supported by the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences (SCEEES) in partnership with the College of Engineering, Computing, and Applied Sciences (CECAS) and supported by passionate Clemson donors and friends of the University.
Interested in supporting the Leadership & Mentoring Network? Contact Doug Gray to learn more about how you can make an impact and help continue to shape the engineering and applied scientists of tomorrow.
