MentorAbility Experience Story: Keenan
Keenan’s two mentorship experiences demonstrate how targeted mentorship opportunities can guide job seekers toward work environments that match their skills and interests.
When job seekers are interested in multiple roles or industries, targeted mentorship opportunities can help guide them toward options that best match their skills and interests.
Keenan had a long-standing interest in the food and grocery sector, and one role he was eager to explore was a butcher. Wade, the MentorAbility Manitoba Hub Coordinator, reached out to a local butcher shop, Miller’s Meats, who welcomed the opportunity to provide a mentorship.
Accompanied by Brittney, the MentorAbility Facilitator, and Khel, the WASO Job Coach, Keenan met Andrew from Miller’s Meats at their store front. Andrew gave them a tour of their meat processing area where he explained how they make some of their products.
Keenan was also shown the front of the store where Andrew outlined the varied responsibilities, such as interacting with customers and weighing and packaging products. With his prior grocery store experience, Keenan asked insightful questions and was enthusiastic about the role.
Following this mentorship experience, Keenan was hired at Miller’s Meats for a position in jerky preparation. The company worked closely with Keenan and Khel to identify needed accommodations and to facilitate Keenan’s transition.
Sometimes, after working in a job, a worker will decide that role is not for them. After a few months, Keenan realized that this role was not the right fit for him, prompting him to seek different opportunities.
He expressed strong interest in the packaging sector, given his previous experience in a similar work environment. With a renewed focus on finding the right match for Keenan, the MentorAbility team organized another mentorship experience, this time at Winpak, a leading manufacturer in the packaging industry.
Keenan had the opportunity to visit Winpak and to explore different departments, including manufacturing, operations, and warehousing. He gained insights into an industry that values innovation, continuous improvement, and teamwork.
Keenan was impressed and thought the packaging industry could be a strong career match. Winpak promotes an inclusive and diverse workforce with opportunities for career growth, aligning well with Keenan’s aspirations.
Targeted Career Exploration
Keenan’s valuable mentorship experiences at Miller’s Meats and Winpak demonstrate how targeted mentorship opportunities can guide job seekers toward work environments that match their skills and interests.
After his first mentorship, Keenan was able to set aside the food processing sector as an option. Based on his second mentorship, he is now exploring warehouse and manufacturing roles that better align with his long-term goals.
We wish Keenan continued success in his career journey!