SPIN Forward Mentor

STEM Paths Innovation Network (SPIN) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing K–12 instruction, mentorship, and program development in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Our mission is to close the opportunity gap for women and BIPOC communities in STEM education and careers.

SPIN Forward is a cohort-based STEM program for 6th–10th grade girls and gender-expansive youth, centering students of color in King County. Throughout the school year, participants engage in Field and Lab Days, present a Capstone Project, and attend a Summer Retreat. Students are supported by women and gender-expansive adult mentors of color who are retired from, currently working in, or studying STEM fields.

Job Title:

SPIN Forward Mentor Volunteer

Reports to:

SPIN Forward Program Manager

Location:

Lab Days: Green River Community College

Field Days: Across King County Partner Sites

Length of Position:

August 2025 – August 2026, with opportunity to extend.

Time Commitment:

Up to 10 hours per month throughout the school year.

Purpose:

The SPIN Forward Mentors at STEM Paths Innovation Network will provide a culturally responsive and uplifting mentorship experience for youth of color by engaging with them monthly in Lab and Field Days, and supporting them with an end-of-year capstone project. This is a one to three year time commitment.

Key Responsibilities:

The SPIN Forward Mentor Volunteer:

(1) Attend and actively participate with youth in at least 80% of Lab and Field Days

(2) Build meaningful relationships with mentees and SPIN staff

(3) Maintain prompt, professional communication

(4) Follow SPIN policies and participate in mentor meetings, surveys, and trainings

(5) Support setup and cleanup at program events

Qualifications:

SPIN Forward is seeking women and gender expansive adults of color* who are currently retired from, working or studying in a STEM field** and are passionate about mentoring young people. Mentors will support a cohort of 6th–10th grade girls and gender-expansive youth of color by providing a culturally responsive, uplifting, and relationship-centered mentorship experience.

Ideal mentors are flexible in their approach to relationship building, are able to give and receive feedback and have experience engaging positively with youth.

All SPIN Forward Mentor Volunteers must complete SPIN’s background check and participate in SPIN’s mentor training prior to working with students.

Support Provided:

Required orientation for SPIN and the SPIN Forward program will take place on August 2, 2025 or another date closer to program start. Connect with other mentors of color and build community! Ongoing support will be provided by the SPIN Forward Manager and Program Coordinator.

• *If you are unable to attend our scheduled orientation times or are joining mid-way through our Program year, we will work with you to schedule an alternative 1:1 time.