There is a great need for mentors to serve both new and practicing interpreters. These mentors serve a valuable role in the ongoing professional development of interpreters. Newly graduated interpreters need ongoing supervision as they transition from the training program environment into the community of practicing interpreters. Practicing interpreters need input and feedback about their skills as they often work in isolated positions. Interpreters who are working in multiple cultures, in specialized settings, and in rural and remote areas have a great need for mentoring support in their work.

Project TIEM.Online (Teaching Interpreting Educators and Mentors) was a nationally funded grant program at Northeastern University from 2003-2005. One objective of this grant was to provide a Master Mentor training program in the United States. The Master Mentor program trains interpreters and interpreter educators to serve as mentors within their communities. The courses in this curriculum focus on the knowledge and skills necessary for effective mentoring. The Master Mentor program identifies and trains interpreters and interpreter educators to serve as mentors for interpreters at all skill levels.

The curriculum consists of a series of four courses that focus on developing both knowledge and skills essential to effective mentoring.