When chapter committees are given room to lead and chapter boards provide steady support, the results speak for themselves. This was on full display at the recent Reel Grinding Class hosted by the Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association, an event that demonstrated the power of trust, collaboration and volunteer leadership in action.

The MiGCSA Assistants and Equipment Managers Committee took the lead in developing a program that was both practical and well-organized. With the chapter board's backing, they designed an event open to all association members, creating an atmosphere that encouraged connection across roles and experience levels. The result was a day that blended education, networking, and real-world insight.

Hosted at Oakland Hills Country Club, the shop tour was led by Head Equipment Manager Jeff Gustafson, CTEM, along with Director of Agronomy Phil Cuffare, a 26-year member of GCSAA, and Superintendent Mike Walter, a six-year association member. Together, they gave attendees a behind-the-scenes look at operations inside one of the most respected facilities in the region. The setting alone elevated the experience, and featured speaker Hector Velazquez shared practical insights drawn from his experience and his Hector's Shop videos.

Adding a personal touch to the atmosphere elevated the event significantly. Host EM Jeff Gustafson, CTEM, a 10-year GCSAA member, fired up his smoker and served barbecue for the entire group. It was not catered. It was cooked with pride. That detail reflected the heart of the event and the chapter and committee's commitment to creating an experience, not just a meeting.

This shop tour did not happen by accident. It happened because the chapter committee was engaged and focused on the member experience, while the chapter board provided resources and steady support. When that balance is present, creativity flourishes, members show up and chapters grow stronger together.