Which generation of trainees are you in? What motivated you to accept the mentor role?
I started preparing trainees since 2021, from the first generation of apprentices. So, I am currently on the fifth generation of trainees.

What do you consider the most beautiful aspect of being a mentor? And the most challenging one?
The most rewarding aspect is seeing the enthusiasm and curiosity of those stepping into a complex field like the energy sector for the first time. It is extremely satisfying to watch how these individuals begin to understand concepts and appreciate their impact on everyday life. On the other hand, the most challenging aspect of this position is the limited time. The energy sector is vast and complex, and sometimes it becomes difficult to cover all the necessary information in a way that is both comprehensive and easy to understand.

What essential values do you promote when guiding your trainee in their career?
The values I focus on when guiding a trainee are responsibility and a desire to learn.

How have you adapted your mentoring style to meet the needs and personality of your current trainee?
In the mentoring process, it's crucial to understand that each trainee is unique and comes with their own needs, learning styles, and expectations.

How do you balance providing support and encouraging autonomy?
My approach always starts with active listening, where I focus on understanding how the trainee thinks, their opinions, and ideas. It's important to understand their perspective. Once I understand how they think, I begin asking open-ended questions to guide them, helping them arrive at solutions on their own.

What made you apply for the Together We Grow - Rompetrol Traineeship program?
I applied for the Together We Grow – Rompetrol Traineeship program because I want to develop my professional skills in a renowned company that emphasizes innovation and growth. I am attracted by the opportunity to learn in a dynamic environment and work alongside experienced professionals. Additionally, I am motivated to build a solid career in this field, and I am convinced that the Together We Grow – Rompetrol Traineeship program was the first step toward achieving my goal.

What was your biggest fear when you first joined the company? How did you overcome it?
My biggest fear when I joined the company was not being prepared enough for the requirements and expectations of the role I would be assigned. I feared that I wouldn’t have the necessary experience to face the challenges and that I wouldn't meet the company’s standards. I overcame this fear through continuous learning and active involvement. I sought advice and feedback from colleagues and mentors, tried to learn from every situation, and remained open to challenges. I also set clear and realistic goals for myself to progress step by step, which helped me gain more confidence in my abilities.

What is the biggest advantage of having a mentor at this stage of your career?
The biggest advantage of having a mentor at this stage of my career is the opportunity to benefit from the experience and knowledge of someone who has already gone through professional challenges and can provide me with practical guidance. A mentor can help me make better decisions, set clear objectives, and develop essential skills to progress.

What is the most important piece of advice/feedback you’ve received from your mentor?
The most important advice I received from my mentor, which will guide me throughout my career, is to acquire new knowledge every day, no matter how small it may be. He explained that continuous learning is essential for personal growth, and every step is important. This advice helped me appreciate the process of daily learning and reflect at the end of each day on what I had learned.

What skills or competencies would you like to further develop?
Being in a dynamic environment where every day is different, I would like to develop my ability to manage changes effectively and handle unexpected challenges. I wish to learn how to maintain focus and stay calm in any situation, make quick and correct decisions, and improve my adaptability skills.