The EXCEL Leadership Program offers leadership training for personal,
career, and stewardship for GCSAA Class C members.
E — Educating golf industry leaders of tomorrow.
X — Cross-training opportunities so they can share what they have learned.
C — Creating community leaders who serve more than take.
E — Encouraging future leaders through advisory boards and councils.
L — Developing leaders who will mentor others.
The EXCEL Leadership Program features two, two-day education and training sessions and a trip to the annual GCSAA Conference and Trade Show for assistant golf course superintendents. The education and travel for 2026-2027 includes:
Three EXCEL events for three years, including the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show, an event each fall and an event each spring while you are in the program.
Expert-led sessions, unique learning tours and networking opportunities with the golf course industry community.
Opportunities to give back to local communities hosting the events.
Applicants must be:
Currently employed as an assistant golf course superintendent within the United States (including Alaska and Hawaii) or Canada.
A Class C member of GCSAA
Able to participate for three full years
Not employed by current members of the GCSAA Board of Directors or GCSAA Foundation Board of Trustees, children of GCSAA or Nufarm staff, or current employees of those organizations.
When you apply, you will be asked to submit:
General information on national and local GCSAA involvement, community activities and industry honors and awards.
Short answer responses to questions: (It may be helpful to type your answer in a Word document and then paste them into the application form. Be detailed and give specific examples)
Why do you wish to be a part of the EXCEL Leadership Program? What do you hope to gain to help improve your role as an assistant golf course superintendent?
If you are selected for the EXCEL Leadership Program, how would you share your skills for the betterment of your golf facility, your chapter, GCSAA and your local community?
Questions? Contact Erin Wolfram at 800-472-7878, ext. 5114.
You can donate to the GCSAA Foundation in many ways.