MENTORS’ MEASURE – Shop Talk 101 – Training Leaders for Tomorrow

by bendixacademy | Dec 30, 2025 | board members, Mentor's Measure

Rodney Beckwith mentors students in various toolmanship skills.

As we close out another remarkable year at Bendix Academy, we pause with deep gratitude for our mentors, our students, our donors, and every supporter who helped turn curiosity into confidence and skills into possibility.

In this article, Bendix Academy’s senior mentor, Rodney Beckwith, captures the heart of our mission simply and powerfully as he talks about why he enjoys mentoring students and sharing his many toolmanship skills.

In Rodney Beckwith’s own words…

“Realize how many of us can help youth become successful in a career. Many youth need to be exposed to the career opportunities available and how they may like working with their hands.”

Our modern world didn’t happen by accident. It was built—carefully, skill by skill—by generations who designed, assembled, repaired, and improved the systems we rely on every day. As Rodney reminds us:

“We can be very thankful that many generations before us have developed a very convenient life for us today. To maintain our comfort we need a majority of us to develop, assemble, and service our conveniences.”

“With the help of many mentors, Bendix Academy is inspiring youth to realize their potential to be involved in a proud and beneficial career.”

Mentors are the core of Bendix Academy.

That understanding sits at the core of Bendix Academy. With the support of dedicated mentors, we introduce young people to hands-on skills, practical problem-solving, and the pride that comes from building and fixing real things.

One of the most common misconceptions we hear is: “I don’t know enough to be a mentor.” Rodney puts that concern to rest:

“You as a mentor do not need to be versed in mechanical knowledge. Our courses are written with many pictures and descriptions in their presentation. You will work with experienced mentors to become comfortable with presentations. You may develop new skills that you were not comfortable with before.”

Expertise matters, but most important is presence.

“What we at Bendix Academy are asking of you is to come with an attitude of wanting to help youth discover themselves. Also showing how adults treat each other in a constructive and respectful manner.”

And the reward?

“The youth reward us with their thankfulness and smiles as they learn many skills they never knew existed.”

Rodney emphasizes that mentors don’t need to be experts in every subject—just individuals who are passionate about helping youth explore career possibilities and develop skills for life.

“Many youth just need a little help to see a beneficial career. Through our planned course materials, we give youth an experience in many areas of future occupation. We also model respect and the value of passing learned skills on to others.”

Do you know a mentor?

If you’ve ever considered sharing your time, your curiosity, or simply your willingness to encourage a young person—you belong here!

As we look ahead to a new year, our need for mentors continues to grow. One afternoon a week can change a life, including your own.

If you are interested in mentoring, click here to let us know. Or, if you know someone else willing to share their time and their knowledge with an eager young learning, please share this page with them!

As Bendix Academy continues to grow, we are looking for new mentors who share Rodney’s commitment to making a meaningful impact. Whether you’re a seasoned tradesperson or simply someone with a passion for teaching and giving back to the community, we invite you to join us. If you have questions contact us at toolmen@bendixacademy.org.

We also recognize that not everyone can give their time right now. If mentoring isn’t possible, please consider a year-end donation—either a one-time gift or a small monthly contribution. Every dollar directly supports tools, materials, and mentor-guided lessons that open doors for the next generation.