Next Gen MentorMix Programme Update

Now in its third year, MentorMix programme continues to connect Next Gen members with experienced professionals from across New Zealand's built environment.

The Building Institute Aotearoa is a pan-industry organisation, which means our members come from a range of backgrounds and roles. With the MentorMIX programme, our mentees (Next Gen members who sign up for the programme) are able to meet a range of mentors through online and in-person (location dependent) sessions. It is a nationwide initiative and gives mentees a taste of different roles across the sector, i.e. Project Managers, Architects, Design Managers, Site Managers.

Now at the halfway point of the 2026 programme, we're pleased to see another cohort of emerging professionals building meaningful connections, expanding their networks and gaining practical advice from mentors who are passionate about supporting the next generation of the industry.

A special thank you to GIB, our proud sponsor of the MentorMIX series, for helping make this programme possible.

Here's what some of this year's participants have to say about the current programme:

Mamta, Auckland Mentee.

“I am very pleased to have Lian as our mentor. During our recent visit to the Summerset Milldale project, he provided valuable insights into project management in practice, including site challenges, contractor and subcontractor management, cost control, and the management of variations. His explanations were detailed and gave us a better understanding of how projects are delivered on site.”

Pinpin, Auckland Mentee.

“The visit provided a valuable opportunity to connect my studies with real construction practice. Seeing CLT construction, building services coordination, and construction staging on site helped me better understand how different elements come together throughout a project.”

Andrew Marshall, Christchurch Mentor.

“They have called into the office, and we have had great chat for hour. We looked over drawings and a completed tender.”

Jiafei (Garfield), Auckland Mentee.

"I came into MentorMix nervous and unsure of what to expect, but I left the Auckland launch feeling inspired and motivated. As a second-year Quantity Surveying student originally from China, having the opportunity to connect with experienced professionals in the NZ construction industry means so much to me. My mentor Warren Chapman has already been incredibly generous with his time and knowledge, and I'm learning something new every week. MentorMix has already opened doors I didn't even know existed. I can't wait to see where this journey takes me."

Dan Bradley, Wellington Mentor.

“A month into the Mentor Mix and we’ve given our mentees some real exposure, first with a site visit to the Miramar Links Golf Club redevelopment where they got to see first hand what it takes to deliver such a unique project into the Wellington built environment. Then our mentees were invited along to a Construction Athletes industry run, getting to further their network with various members of the construction industry while enjoying some fitness.”

Lei, Auckland Mentee.

“Over the past month, I had my first catch-up with Paul Styles, my mentor. Since it was our first meeting, we focused on getting to know each other, sharing our backgrounds, and I had the chance to ask some initial questions. This is my first time participating in a program like this, and I feel incredibly excited. Having the rare opportunity to sit down and chat one-on-one with a senior professional in the local industry is an invaluable experience that you simply cannot get in a university classroom.”

Summer Foley, Auckland Mentee.

The Mentor Mix programme has provided me with the opportunity to connect with experienced industry professionals like Lian and gain practical insights into the construction sector. I am grateful for the guidance and support I have received so far and look forward to continuing to learn and grow throughout the remainder of the programme.”

Abishek, Auckland Mentee.

I’ve been enjoying the experience so far and have had the opportunity to connect with my mentor, Greg Douglas. Our conversations have been very valuable, and he has been helping me with my Master’s research by sharing industry insights and useful resources.”