Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr., a former Military Intelligence Analyst and current General Manager of Operations for Marietta Motors LLC and Westfall Towing, is raising concerns about a mentorship gap that he says is undermining workforce development across industries. With more than three decades of leadership experience in golf, hospitality, automotive services, and business operations, Gibson has observed that many young workers entering the workforce lack access to mentors who can guide them through career decisions and workplace challenges.
According to the Allianz Life 2026 Annual Retirement Study, 42% of Americans retire earlier than expected, often due to circumstances beyond their control. As experienced workers leave the workforce prematurely, businesses and communities face the challenge of preserving valuable knowledge and passing it to the next generation. Gibson argues that this trend exacerbates the mentorship gap, leaving young employees without the guidance that can shape successful careers.
Gibson emphasized that mentorship has been critical in his own career. 'Some of the most important lessons I've learned didn't come from a classroom or a training manual. They came from people who took the time to invest in me,' he said. He noted that while businesses focus heavily on technology, automation, and artificial intelligence, they often overlook the human element of workforce development. 'Technology can make us more efficient, but it can't replace wisdom,' Gibson added.
Research consistently shows that employees with mentors report higher job satisfaction, greater confidence, and stronger career development. However, many young workers still lack access to experienced professionals who can help them navigate early career stages. Gibson believes this is a community-wide issue that extends beyond the workplace. He has mentored young golfers through the First Tee program, individuals in recovery programs, employees changing careers, and those seeking second chances. 'The common thread is that people grow faster when someone believes in them, listens to them, and shares what they've learned,' he said.
Gibson calls on experienced professionals to take small but meaningful steps, such as reaching out to younger colleagues, sharing lessons from their careers, volunteering with youth or recovery programs, or simply making time for conversations. 'You don't need a formal program. Sometimes it starts with a simple conversation over coffee, a phone call, or taking an interest in someone's future,' he said.
As businesses struggle with labor shortages and high turnover, Gibson warns that ignoring the mentorship gap could have long-term consequences. 'Every experienced professional has something worth passing on,' he said. 'You don't have to change someone's entire life. Sometimes all it takes is taking an interest in their future and being willing to share what you've learned.'
