About the Program

The IBAT Mentorship Program is a high-impact leadership experience designed to connect emerging community bank leaders with seasoned industry professionals across Texas.

Through intentional mentor-mentee pairings, guided programming, and real-world conversations, participants gain practical insight, expand their network, and build the confidence to lead within their organizations and communities.


Each year, IBAT carefully matches a select group of mentor and mentee participants to ensure meaningful, high-value connections.

Throughout the 10-month program, participants engage in:

- Monthly mentor-mentee conversations
- Structured virtual sessions focused on leadership and industry insights
- Guided discussion prompts to drive real-world application

FAQs

Have more questions?
Contact us at mentoring@ibat.org.

Why This Program Matters

Community banking is built on relationships, leadership, and shared knowledge. This program creates space for all three to thrive.

- Accelerated Growth: Learn directly from experienced bankers who have navigated the challenges you’re facing
- Real-World Insight: Gain practical strategies you can apply immediately in your role
- Stronger Network: Build meaningful relationships across the IBAT community
- Leadership Confidence: Develop the mindset and skills needed to lead with impact

Who It’s For

All community bankers who are IBAT members in good standing are eligible to apply to be a mentor or mentee.

Registration Fees:
Mentee: $995 | Mentor: none

Who Should Apply

- Emerging leaders ready to grow into leadership roles
- Professionals eager to learn, ask questions, and expand their perspective

- Experienced community bankers committed to developing the next generation
- Leaders willing to share insights, experiences, and guidance

This program is designed for participants who are ready to actively engage, take initiative, and invest in their professional growth.

How Do I Know If I’m a Prime Candidate for the Program?

All of our mentors and mentees will be IBAT community bankers who are eager and committed to the success of our industry:

Mentor Qualifications:

• Has at least 10 years in a bank management or leadership role
• Is willing to dedicate time investing in his/her mentee
• Is willing to share his/her knowledge and experience to guide and support the professional development of others
• Has the support of his/her organization to participate in mentorship program activities, including workshops and networking events
• Is able to join in the mandatory virtual program events

Mentee Qualifications:

• Is an employees of an IBAT member bank
• Is currently in their first 1-3 years of a management or leadership role
• Is eager to learn and develop their skills as a leader
• Is open to receiving guidance and feedback from others
• Is supported by their leaders to participate in mentorship program activities, including workshops and networking events
• Is able to join in the mandatory virtual meetings/events

IBAT Education Foundation Mission: "Building Better Bankers."

At the core of IBAT’s mission is a commitment to developing strong, capable leaders for the future of community banking. The Mentorship Program delivers a dynamic, real-world learning experience focused on career growth, banking operations, leadership development, succession planning, and industry best practices.

Because when we invest in people, we strengthen community banks and the Texas communities they serve.