RESOURCES
SUSTAINING THE FUTURE OF THEMED ENTERTAINMENT
TEA NextGen supports students, recent graduates, and emerging professionals as they begin their careers in themed entertainment—while also helping companies connect with fresh, creative talent from around the world.
Through partnerships with universities and industry company support, TEA NextGen fosters themed entertainment-focused programs and student clubs, giving the next generation of storytellers, designers, and engineers a clear pathway into the industry.
WHAT WE OFFER:
- Career Connections: Access to mentors, internship and job prospects through networking, access to the TEA Job Board.
- Professional Development: Speed networking, webinars, workshops, and speaker sessions at major events
- Exclusive Experiences: Behind-the-scenes tours, mixers, and low cost entry to TEA signature events like our SATE's,
- Global Outlook: Opportunities in design, engineering, media, operations, and more – across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia Pacific region
Whether you’re a student, educator, or industry professional looking to support emerging talent – TEA NextGen is where passion meets possibility.
TEA MENTORSHIP PROGRAM – CLOSED
Connect. Grow. Give Back.
The TEA Mentorship Program is designed to foster meaningful, one-on-one connections between themed entertainment professionals – whether you're just starting out or ready to share your experience. Open to all TEA members, the program pairs mentors and mentees for a six-month journey of growth, guidance, and inspiration.
HOW IT WORKS:
Members can choose to participate as a mentor, a mentee, or both. Each participant completes a brief intake form sharing background, location, interests, and experience. The TEA Mentorship Subcommittee (part of the TEA NextGen Committee) will thoughtfully match mentors and mentees based on compatibility and goals.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- 6-Month Program
- Minimum of One Hour-Long Meeting Per Month
- Virtual Kickoff Meeting & Program Wrap-Up Survey
- Monthly Check-ins with the TEA Mentorship Team
At your first meeting, you’ll set personal goals for the mentorship experience. Mentees take the lead in scheduling regular check-ins and keeping momentum going. Mentors are encouraged to offer thoughtful guidance, share personal insights, and help build industry connections.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE:
Mentors
- Must be a TEA member in good standing
- Willing to lead with empathy, insight, and openness
- Passion for guiding and inspiring others as a role model
- Strong communication and people skills
- Collaborative problem-solver with mentee
- Supportive of TEA’s values of diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Committed to the 6 one-hour meetings over 6 months
Mentees
- Must be a TEA member in good standing
- Eager to learn, grow, and take initiative to collaborate with mentor
- Open to feedback and professional development
- Supportive of TEA’s values of diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Committed to the 6 one-hour meetings over 6 months
PROJECTED TIMELINE:
- 5-22 Aug 2025: Sign-Up Period (CLOSED)
- 9 Oct 2025: Pairing Announcement Email from TEA Staff
- 10 Oct 2025: Mentor & Mentee Orientation via Zoom. Recording to be distributed post orientation to all accepted applicants.
- 11 Dec 2025: Quarterly Check-Ins Begin
- 15 Jan 2025: 3 Month Survey Check-In Sent
- 30 Jan 2025: 3 Month Survey Responses Due
- 15 May 2025: Mentorship Program Concludes
SPECIAL THANKS TOR OUR 2025 NEXTGEN INITIATIVE GLOBAL PARTNERS!
