Are you interested in having a career advocating for people with developmental disabilities (DD)? Have you recently begun working in the DD field, and want to expand your career?
The Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD) is facilitating Professional Pathways, a mentorship program for Texans who are interested in working in the field of developmental disabilities. This mentorship program is ideal for Texans with disabilities, family members, or professionals early in their career. Selected participants will be paired with established mentors based on their interests and career goals.
Overview
- Mentees are selected first and then paired with a mentor based on areas of desired interest and professional growth.
- Applicants do not need to have a career in the DD field. People who are working in the DD field may apply.
- Working in the “DD Field” may include careers in disability advocacy, policy, direct services, special education, personal care attendance, non-profit, healthcare, supports and services, and more.
- Mentors and mentees will meet at least six times over a defined six-month period. Meeting times within the six months are flexible and based on the scheduling preferences of the mentor and mentee. Meetings must be scheduled at a frequency that allows progress.
- Mentors and mentees may meet in-person or virtually.
- Each mentorship is different and will be tailored to the professional goals of the mentee. Goals will be established at the beginning of the mentorship and regular communication with TCDD is required. Participation in the mentorship is voluntary and will not be financially compensated.
- Participation in interviews with TCDD at the end of the mentorship is required. Details of expectations will be shared with selected mentees and mentors.
What is a Mentor?
A mentor is an experienced, trusted advisor who guides, teaches, and supports a less experienced person (called a mentee) to help them grow personally or professionally. Mentors help new professionals develop confidence, expand understanding, and reach their goals. Every mentorship is different! Having a mentor is an excellent way to network and learn more about a career field. Ideally, a mentor will help you make new connections, gain skills, and plan for your professional future.
How to Apply
You can apply to Professional Pathways online. The application will ask you about yourself, your career goals, and what you look for in a mentor. The mentorship application must be completed once it is started. You will not be able to save the application and return to finish it later. Please allow approximately 30 minutes to complete the application before beginning.
The deadline to apply is Oct. 15, 2026. If you have questions or need accommodations to apply, please contact Mary Bagwell at mary.bagwell@tcdd.texas.gov.
