MARIETTA, OH — Don Carlos Lee Gibson Jr., a former Military Intelligence Analyst in the United States Army and current General Manager of Operations for Marietta Motors LLC and Westfall Towing, is raising concerns about a mentorship gap that he says is hindering young workers' career development and contributing to workforce challenges.
With over three decades of leadership experience across golf, hospitality, automotive services, and business operations, Gibson has seen how mentorship can shape careers. He emphasizes that while much of the current workforce discussion focuses on technology and automation, the human element of guidance is being neglected.
“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 warning comes at a time when workforce development is a significant challenge. According to Allianz Life's 2026 Annual Retirement Study, 42% of Americans retire earlier than expected, often due to circumstances beyond their control. This trend means that experienced workers are leaving the workforce sooner, creating a knowledge vacuum that businesses and communities must address.
Gibson says the mentorship gap extends beyond the corporate environment. Through his work with programs like First Tee, recovery initiatives, and community outreach, he has observed that people thrive when someone believes in them and shares wisdom. “The common thread is that people grow faster when someone believes in them, listens to them, and shares what they've learned,” he noted.
Research consistently shows 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 guide them through career decisions and workplace challenges.
According to Gibson, businesses cannot afford to ignore this issue. “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.”
Gibson believes mentorship should be viewed as a community responsibility, not just a corporate initiative. He encourages experienced professionals to take small but meaningful steps, such as reaching out to a younger colleague, sharing career lessons, volunteering with youth or recovery programs, or simply making time for conversations that help others grow.
“You don't have to change someone's entire life,” Gibson said. “Sometimes all it takes is taking an interest in their future and being willing to share what you've learned.”
