The Mentorset scheme, run by the Women's Engineering Society and the Association for Women in Science and Engineering, offers support in areas such as career planning and progression, networking, finding a suitable work/life balance, returning after a career break, coping with a disability or health problem and developing new skills.
The scheme is managed by Jan West, who previously worked in IT in for an international bank.
"Having a good mentor can be a short cut to success. A mentor can save you from making expensive mistakes and help you develop solutions to personal problems or solve any career dilemmas," West said.
"A mentor should help you believe in yourself and boost your confidence, should ask questions and challenge you, but provide guidance and encouragement."
Sue Black, who chairs the BCS Women group, used Mentorset herself and attended a one-day training session for prospective mentors.
"I would encourage anyone who does not already have a mentor to sign up for one of these programmes," she said.
"Both mentoring and being mentored can bring valuable insights and experience to one's career."
Information on Mentorset
www.mentorset.org.uk
BCS Women Specialist Group
www.bcs.org/bcswomen
BCS continuing professional development scheme, including free volunteer mentors
www.bcs.org/cpd
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