Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-29-2023
Keywords
mentorship, black professionals, career mobility, PVEST and social capital theory
Abstract
Career mobility for Black individuals may appear individualistic, ignoring the collectivistic endeavor involved to achieve success. This qualitative study explored participants’ mentorship relationships, analogous to the underground railroad system, as it relates to navigating their careers. Participants, who are Black professionals in various career fields, detailed how the support provided by their mentors allowed them to understand the nuances of career mobility while gaining lifelong relationships, resources, and networks necessary for continued and sustainable success. The theoretical frameworks for this study used Phenomenological Variant Ecological Systems Theory (PVEST) and Social Capital Theory. Analysis of 15 individual semi[1]structured interviews were highlighted in 3 central themes: 1) mentorship plays a key role in career mobility; 2) forms of mentorship: social/emotional vs. instrumental support; and 3) conductors of the railroad: mentorship across racial lines. This work has implications for development of comprehensive mentoring programs and career support for Black professionals across disciplines.
ORCID ID
0000-0003-3521-6314
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12111-023-09628-3
Repository Citation
Williams, Duane A.; Gordon, Rahjaun; and Stewart, Pearl, "Career Mobility for Black Professionals: Mentorship as an Underground Railroad" (2023). All Faculty Scholarship. 1.
https://digitalcommons.tamusa.edu/pubs_faculty/1
Comments
This is the author accepted version of the publication:
Williams, D.A., Gordon, R. & Stewart, P. Career Mobility For Black Professionals: Mentorship as an Underground Railroad. J Afr Am St (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12111-023-09628-3