This is the 13524th most frequent Russian word.
наставниками
"Mentors."
The word 'наставниками' is used here as the instrumental plural form of 'наставник', indicating that they are mentors (role or status) for the subjects.
Они стали нашими наставниками в области науки.
They became our mentors in the field of science.
In this sentence, 'наставниками' is instrumental plural, used to denote the people ('mentors') involved in discussing something.
Мы обсудили план с наставниками вчера вечером.
We discussed the plan with the mentors yesterday evening.
The word 'наставниками' in this context signifies 'mentors' as entities providing guidance, emphasizing professional or educational support.