President – John Gillard (Sales & Project Manager); Mentee – Zeynep Polat (Project Coordinator); Mentee – Levi Nguyen (Project Coordinator); Mentor – Jennifer Seehra (Safety & Organizational Development Manager)
Mentorship is often viewed as a relationship between two people, but its impact is arguably strongest when it is woven into the fabric of a company’s culture.
This January, during Mentorship Month, we are spotlighting Donald Flooring, a company that has enrolled members of their team in the Building Builders mentorship program and applied it internally to drive professional development, safety awareness, and leadership skills.
While the BC Construction Association (BCCA) advocates for workforce development at a provincial level, the real work happens on the ground. It happens when leaders like John Gillard, the President of Donald Flooring, decide that investing in people is the only way to build a sustainable business.
“Employee mentorship is one of the most valuable investments an organization can make in its people,” John says. “When experienced team members guide newer or developing employees, the benefits ripple across individual careers, team culture, and overall business performance.”
The Structure of Internal Support
At Donald Flooring, this philosophy is put into practice by Jennifer Seehra, a Safety & Organizational Development Manager who has taken on the role of Mentor for two of her colleagues: Levi Nguyen and Zeynep Polat.
Jennifer sees mentorship as the bridge between self-directed ambition and professional reality. By using the Building Builders program, she supports Levi and Zeynep in creating clear, actionable roadmaps for their careers.
“We all grow in this process—investing time, sharing knowledge, and celebrating progress,” Jennifer explains. “It’s a privilege to have the support from John that allows me to take on the challenge of two Mentees and cheer them on as they grow into tomorrow’s leaders.”
Real Results for the Next Generation
Mentee – Levi Nguyen, Project Coordinator – Tile
For Levi, a Tile & Stone Project Coordinator, the mentorship experience has been about cementing the fundamentals. His focus has been on estimating with confidence, construction safety, supporting his team, and making new industry connections.
“I really appreciate Jennifer’s guidance,” Levi shares. “Backed by the great support from John at Donald Flooring and on-going check-ins with Sue from Building Builders, [this] has been key to setting a solid career roadmap.”
Mentee – Zeynep Polat, Project Coordinator
For Zeynep, a Project Coordinator looking to advance into a Project Manager role, the program has provided the technical confidence she needs. She is focusing on the BC Building Code, regulations, and personal branding.
“My experience as part of the Building Builders program has opened the pathway to truly self-reflect about my career in the construction industry,” Zeynep says. “Being part of an organized mentorship experience sets one on the path of being intentional about career choices within their organization.”
Why This Matters
Donald Flooring demonstrates that you don’t need to look outside your organization to find value in the Building Builders program. By formalizing their internal training through our mentorship structure, they are retaining top talent and ensuring that institutional knowledge is passed down effectively.
To John, Jennifer, Levi, and Zeynep: thank you for showing the industry what a “culture of mentorship” looks like in practice.
Are you an employer looking to structure your internal training? Or a skilled tradesperson ready to pass on your knowledge? Join the Building Builders program today.