10/28/2015 12:10 PM
I was certified in 2008 and have served for several years on the Certification Committee. I firmly believe in the program. The GCSAA Certification Program is widely recognized as one of the most accepted certification programs in the world for its professionalism. That being said, becoming certified is a personal decision. There are very good superintendents who have not become certified and, while the designation MIGHT get your foot in the door, there is no guarantee. I became, and I think most people who have the designation became, certified as a personal challenge. I have always looked to challenge myself beyond my personal comfort levels; becoming certified was one more challenge. I learned a lot becoming certified; both about my profession and myself. The certification process is very good at identifying areas of weakness. It is not all agronomics, although you must certainly have a strong understanding of golf maintenance. The portfolio process examines leadership, management, communication skills, human resource management, organization, safety, business skills, equipment management, and other areas that are present in the well-rounded superintendent. I would be the last person to say that someone who choses not to become certified is "less than" someone who is certified. As I said, it is a personal decision, but one that you can wear with pride.
Steve Ravenkamp, CGCS
Apache Stronghold Golf Resort
San Carlos, AZ