Mentoring Relationships among Women Leaders

This qualitative research collective case study explored the mentoring relationships among veteran women leaders and novice women leaders in the nuclear vendor industry in Central Virginia. The general problem addressed in this study was the potential lack of mentoring relationships among women leaders despite the many advantages of mentoring. The purpose of this qualitative collective case study was to add to the body of knowledge of the lack of mentoring relationships among women leaders in a technical industry by exploring the mentoring experiences, or lack thereof, and the perception of women on mentoring who are or have been in leadership positions. Research questions explored the mentoring experiences and the perception of women on mentoring who are or have been in leadership positions. Twelve interviews were conducted using convenience sampling. Seven common themes emerged from the data analysis. The themes developed from this study are relevant and applicable to business because the advantages of mentoring relationships between women leaders include enhanced business and organizational success, and improved leadership competence. Based on the emergent themes and review of the academic literature, five recommendations for action were developed to aid in the assurance that businesses and organizational veteran leaders ascertain the importance of mentoring relationships among women leaders