Mentorship That Powers Your Energy Career

A strong mentor can offer perspective, encouragement, and practical guidance, but the most valuable mentoring relationships are rarely one-way. In this episode of Full of Energy, Aditi Iyer and Kelley Whalen share how an AEE mentorship match grew into a trusted professional relationship that continues to benefit them both.

Their stories begin from very different places. Kelley, current Global Energy Manager for Adtran, entered the field through hands-on work as an HVAC controls technician. When his manager handed him an energy data logger that the team couldn’t figure out, Kelley took the challenge and ran with it. That unexpected opportunity launched a career in energy management.

Aditi discovered her interest in energy while studying electrical energy and power systems. A renewable-energy course opened her eyes to the field’s potential and impact. After earning a master’s degree in energy science, technology, and policy, she began building her career and looked for a mentor who could help her understand the industry and plan for the long term.

At first, Kelley was apprehensive about being paired with an engineer. He wondered whether he would be able to offer the kind of technical guidance she might need. Aditi, however, wasn’t looking for a technical tutor. She wanted the benefit of Kelley’s experience navigating a career in energy. Once they made that clear to each other, their different backgrounds became a strength.

They built trust by communicating openly, agreeing on goals, and listening before jumping into advice. Kelley encouraged Aditi to create a presentation about herself—what she does, what she brings to a team, and how she communicates her value. They worked on elevator pitches and confidence, helping Aditi become a stronger advocate for her own work.

One message especially stayed with her: “If you don’t champion for yourself, who will champion for you?” The advice helped Aditi recognize that technical expertise is only part of career growth. Being able to describe your contributions and speak up for your goals matters, too.

Kelley also encouraged Aditi to write down short-, medium-, and long-term goals, while reminding her that plans can change. Careers evolve, industries shift, and new opportunities appear unexpectedly. The point isn’t to predict every step perfectly; it’s to keep reflecting, adjusting, and moving forward.

But Kelley wasn’t the only one teaching. Aditi shared her perspective as an early-career professional and introduced Kelley to areas of energy modeling beyond his own experience. Her curiosity reminded him that every generation brings fresh ideas and questions. Their relationship became a practical example of reverse mentoring: both people bring expertise, and both have something to learn.

Their conversations also made room for humor. When Aditi mentioned she was cold, Kelley spotted the thermostat behind her and helped her adjust it. The moment became part of their running story—and Kelley shared about his nickname Captain Kilowatt, which he earned thanks to his enthusiasm for energy-saving fixes.

The bigger lesson is that mentorship can matter at every career stage. Needs change as responsibilities, projects, and goals evolve, but perspective and support remain valuable. As Kelley puts it, “You need a team around you.”

Listen to the episode for Aditi and Kelley’s full story, their practical advice for building a productive mentoring relationship, and a reminder that career growth is easier when you learn together. Applications for AEE’s mentorship program are open to mentors and mentees through December 31, 2026.

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