AWAF Coaching Program FAQs

Who is eligible to apply?
The program is designed for women seeking professional, career, or leadership development, particularly those working in or connected to the automotive and mobility industries. Applicants should review the current program eligibility requirements before applying.

Do I need to be an AWAF member?
Yes. This program is only open to AWAF members. Membership information can be found here.

What can coaching help me accomplish?
Coaching can help you clarify your goals, strengthen your leadership capabilities, navigate career decisions, build confidence, improve your professional brand, and create an actionable development plan. Your specific priorities will be established with your coach.

Is coaching the same as mentoring?
No. A mentor typically shares advice based on personal experience. A coach uses questions, reflection, accountability, and structured exercises to help you identify your own goals and solutions. Depending on the coach’s background, some relevant experience may also be shared.

How are participants matched with coaches?
AWAF considers the information provided in your application and intake form, including your goals, career stage, development priorities, preferred coaching style, and relevant scheduling needs. Although preferences will be considered, AWAF cannot guarantee a match based on every requested characteristic.

What happens if my coach and I are not a good fit?
Participants should first have an honest conversation with their coach about what is or is not working. If the concern cannot be resolved, please contact the AWAF program administrator. AWAF will assess the situation, although an alternative match may depend on coach availability.

How many coaching sessions are included?
The program includes six individual coaching sessions conducted during the established program period.

How long is each session?
Standard session length is 60 minutes.

How frequently will I meet with my coach?
You and your coach will agree on a meeting cadence that allows all six sessions to be completed within the program period. Monthly or approximately every three weeks may be appropriate, depending on the schedule.

Are sessions virtual or in person?
Participants and coaches may agree to meet virtually, in person, or through a hybrid arrangement. Meeting format is subject to the coach’s availability, location, and preferences.

Where will in-person sessions be held?
The participant and coach will jointly select a professional, safe, and mutually convenient location. AWAF does not require either person to meet in a private residence.

What is the cost to participate?
Participation is $350. All proceeds from the program support AWAF programming and scholarships and is 501c3 tax deductible.

When is payment due?
Payment is due upon application submission.

Does submitting an application guarantee acceptance?
No. Space may be limited based on coach availability and the number of qualified applicants. AWAF will notify applicants of their acceptance and matching status according to the published program timeline.

What happens if I am accepted but no appropriate coach is available?
AWAF will communicate whether the applicant will be placed on a waiting list, offered a future-cycle opportunity, or receive a refund if payment has already been submitted.

Is the $350 fee refundable?
A refund is possible if requested within one week of the program start (January 4, 2027).

What am I expected to do between sessions?
You may be asked to reflect, complete an assessment or exercise, test a new behavior, or take an agreed-upon action. Progress depends heavily on your willingness to prepare, participate candidly, and follow through between sessions.

What if I need to reschedule a session?
Notify your coach as early as possible and follow the cancellation policy established at the beginning of the engagement. Repeated cancellations may make it difficult to complete all six sessions within the program period.

What happens if I miss a session?
Please follow the coach’s policy for missed sessions. Repeated cancellations could result in being exited from the program. Please maintain professionalism at all times.

Can unused sessions be carried into the next program cycle?
Unless AWAF approves an exception, participants should expect to complete all six sessions within the designated program period. Unused sessions generally should not carry forward.

Are coaching conversations confidential?
Coaching conversations should remain private between the participant and coach, with limited exceptions involving legal requirements, imminent safety concerns, or information the participant authorizes the coach to share. Participants should not disclose confidential or proprietary information belonging to their employer or another party. AWAF will provide coaches and participants with a written confidentiality agreement.

Will my employer or AWAF receive updates about my sessions?
AWAF may track administrative information such as whether sessions are occurring and whether the program was completed. The content of coaching conversations will not be shared without the participant’s permission, except as required by law or the program’s stated safety provisions.

Will my application information be shared?
Relevant application and intake information may be shared with the assigned coach to support matching and preparation. Otherwise, all application information will be stored and accessible by program Chairs only.

Will I be asked to complete an evaluation?
Yes. Coaches and participants are expected to complete an evaluation after the program. Feedback helps AWAF assess program quality and improve future coaching cycles.

Will my testimonial or feedback be published?
Not without permission. AWAF will obtain separate written consent before using a participant’s name, photograph, testimonial, or identifiable evaluation comments for marketing.

Who should I contact with questions?
For application, payment, matching, accessibility, or program questions, contact: [email protected]