From the beginning of the steel industry, Birmingham has long been a place where raw materials are transformed into new tools. The iconic statue of the Vulcan, the Roman god of the forge, continues to preside over this process today. The Forge at UAB carries on this historic tradition by bringing together healthcare leaders at various points in their leadership journeys and connecting them in purposeful mentoring relationships. 

Like a steel forge, we recognize that the rawest of materials can transform into powerful tools with the right craftsmanship. In addition to the world-class education our students receive in the Department of Health Services Administration, mentorship is a critical part of shaping tomorrow’s healthcare leaders. Metal instruments can sharpen each other, just as the mentor-mentee relationship can be a formative experience for both parties. The Forge at UAB exists to forge enduring relationships to shape future healthcare leaders into powerful tools for change.

The purpose of The Forge at UAB Mentoring Program is to enhance the leadership competencies and careers of students and alumni within the Department of Health Services Administration through interactions with alumni and other connections who can provide advice, mentoring, and practical experience.

Mentees are expected to take ownership of their leadership development during the program and to: 

• Jointly set priorities/expectations for the mentoring relationship. 
  
• Work with their assigned mentor to schedule and conduct a one-on-one meeting (for about an hour) with their mentor each semester. 
  
• Assume responsibility for ensuring their interactions with mentors are personally and professionally valuable. 
  
• Work to build a strong relationship with their assigned mentor. 
  
• Communicate promptly and professionally with mentors. 
  

• Share openly with their mentor about their issues, problems, questions, and successes. 
  

  If you are interested in participating in The Forge at UAB Mentoring Program as either a mentor and/or mentee, let us know by marking your interests on the “Preferences” section within your profile.