MARIETTA, OH — Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr., a former Military Intelligence Analyst and current General Manager of Operations for Marietta Motors LLC and Westfall Towing, is drawing attention to what he calls the mentorship gap facing young workers. With over three decades of leadership experience across industries, Gibson warns that as technology and automation dominate workforce discussions, the human element of mentorship is being overlooked.
“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.”
The concern comes at a time when workforce development remains a major challenge. 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 institutional knowledge for the next generation.
Gibson emphasizes that the mentorship gap extends beyond corporate settings. “I've worked with young golfers through the First Tee program, people rebuilding their lives through recovery programs, employees entering new careers, and individuals looking for a second chance. The common thread is that people grow faster when someone believes in them, listens to them, and shares what they've learned.”
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 help them navigate career decisions and workplace challenges.
According to Gibson, businesses cannot afford to ignore the problem. “Technology can make us more efficient, but it can't replace wisdom. 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 believes mentorship should be viewed as a community responsibility rather than solely a business initiative. “Every experienced professional has something worth passing on. 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. That could mean reaching out to a younger colleague, sharing lessons learned from their career, volunteering with youth or recovery programs, or simply making time for conversations that help others grow. He believes mentorship often starts with listening rather than advising. “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.”
