MARIETTA, Ohio — Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr., a former Military Intelligence Analyst in the United States Army and General Manager of Operations for Marietta Motors LLC and Westfall Towing, is warning about a growing mentorship gap that he says is receiving too little attention amid workforce challenges. With more than three decades of leadership experience across golf, hospitality, automotive services, and business operations, Gibson has observed that many young workers lack access to mentors who can help them navigate their careers.
“We’re talking a lot about technology, automation, and artificial intelligence,” Gibson said. “What we’re not talking enough about is the fact that many young people are entering the workforce without mentors. 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.”
Gibson’s concern comes as workforce development remains a major challenge. According to Allianz Life’s 2026 Annual Retirement Study, 42% of Americans retire earlier than expected, often due to circumstances beyond their control. As experienced workers leave the workforce sooner than planned, businesses and communities face the risk of losing valuable knowledge and experience that could benefit the next generation.
Gibson says the issue extends beyond the workplace. Through involvement in programs like First Tee, recovery initiatives, and youth development, he has seen how mentorship can accelerate personal and professional growth. “The common thread is that people grow faster when someone believes in them, listens to them, and shares what they’ve learned,” he said.
Studies consistently show that employees with mentors report higher job satisfaction, greater confidence, and stronger career development. Yet many young workers still lack access to experienced professionals who can provide guidance on career decisions and workplace challenges. Gibson believes businesses cannot ignore the problem. “Technology can make us more efficient, but it can’t replace wisdom,” he said. “A lot of young people don’t need another app. They need someone willing to have a conversation, answer questions, and help them avoid mistakes that experience can teach.”
Throughout his career, Gibson has built teams in industries where trust, communication, and practical knowledge are essential. He views mentorship as a community responsibility rather than solely a business initiative. “Every experienced professional has something worth passing on,” Gibson said. “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.”
Gibson encourages experienced professionals to take small but meaningful steps, such as reaching out to a younger colleague, sharing lessons learned, volunteering with youth or recovery programs, or simply making time for conversations that help others grow. He believes mentorship often begins with listening rather than advising. “You don’t have to change someone’s entire life,” he said. “Sometimes all it takes is taking an interest in their future and being willing to share what you’ve learned.”
