As many of you have likely heard me say before—exceptional mentorship programs within associations are rare, particularly those that thrive and evolve over time. During a recent meeting, as I listened to reflections from the latest mentorship cohort and joined the conversation on how we can continue to enhance NAFTZ’s mentorship program, it struck me: Our members need to hear this story. What better place to share it than in this edition of the Zones Report, through my President’s Letter?

Even better—I’m delighted to turn the spotlight over to Kristine Wells, NAFTZ’s Director of Member Services and Communications. Kristine has been the staff lead for our mentorship efforts and brings not only a wealth of knowledge but also a genuine passion for helping newer FTZ professionals connect with seasoned experts in the field. Her dedication has fostered meaningful, long-lasting professional relationships within our community.

It’s my great pleasure to invite you to read on and hear directly from Kristine.

By: Jeff Tafel

NAFTZ President

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Help Shape the Next Generation of U.S. FTZ Leaders – 

Apply to the NAFTZ Mentorship Program Today!

Applications are officially open for the 2025 – 2026 NAFTZ Mentorship Program! We strongly encourage all Grantee, Operator/User and 3PL/3FP (Third-Party Fulfillment Provider) members to get involved by signing up as either a mentor or mentee.

In the niche world of U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones, there’s no substitute for connecting with someone who truly understands the industry’s ins and outs. Whether you’re newer to the program or a seasoned expert, the NAFTZ Mentorship Program offers an opportunity to grow professionally, build lasting connections, and contribute to the strength and the success of our community.

Launched in its current form in 2022, the Mentorship Program has grown in participation and impact. Each year, the NAFTZ Mentorship Sub-Committee works diligently to prepare for the new term, review applications, and thoughtfully match mentors and mentee.

That matching process is getting a major upgrade this year!

We’re introducing a new “mentor profile” feature to the program. Once applications close in September, the sub-committee will identify potential pairings, share it with each individual mentee, and ask that they each select their top three pick – someone they feel would be the best match for their mentorship program goals. The sub-committee will review all the mentees’ picks and will make the final decision based on those preferences. This change is designed to streamline the process and help us announce matches earlier than in previous years.

Consider applying today! Each year, the mentorship program applications fall short of mentor interest, and the sub-committee must then personally reach out to members to help fill the gap. If you have experience in the U.S. FTZ program and can donate approximately an hour of your time (one per month) from November – April, we urge you to apply. Your insight could be the key to helping a fellow NAFTZ member succeed.

Why Participate?

• Mentees gain guidance, clarity, and confidence in their U.S. FTZ journey
• Mentors give back, sharpen their leadership skills, and contribute to the development of this field
• Both build valuable and long-lasting relationships that extend far beyond the 6-month program term

Applications are open from July – September 26, 2025. The sub-committee will work with the mentees to finalize the matches with a goal to officially commence the program in November 2025. It will then run for 6 months through April 2026.

Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in your growth and in the future of our community. Click on the appropriate links below, and apply today:

Mentor

Mentee

By: Kristine Wells

Director of Member Services