Recently I was allowed to gather with roughly 55 assistant superintendents from the Palm Beach GCSA chapter. I must admit, I am charged up from the interaction. Perhaps it was the eagerness I saw in their eyes to gain information from the day’s education or the networking opportunities with other industry leaders. Whatever it was, I thoroughly enjoyed the time with them and look forward to following them as they advance through their careers.

I mention "advancement" which was precisely the crux of my messaging as I was afforded time to present on several GCSAA programs and services intended to help them reach their career goals. I highlighted the "Career" section on the GCSAA website. Upon asking the question of how many of them envisioned becoming superintendents and seeing that they all indicated that they desired to reach that position, I showcased the tips for creating a professional resume and writing a cover letter that would distinguish them from the others applying for the job. Looking around the room, I noted there were so many individuals on the precipice of rewarding careers, so I wanted to make sure they were aware that GCSAA stands dedicated to helping them every step of the way. I continued by providing tips for a successful interview and, for when the opportunity presented itself, advice for negotiating and accepting the position.

In addition to the information on GCSAA's website, I discussed our relationship with Career Advantage Golf and the career coaching services provided by Erin Wolfram and Carol Rau. I indicated that both Erin and Carol provide great career resources and are poised to assist our members in a variety of ways to prepare them for the steps to achieve their goals. Several in attendance knew Carol from interacting with her at the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show.

Beyond the career tips, I discussed our Assistant Superintendent Certificate Series as another opportunity to distinguish themselves and help get a leg up in a very competitive market. I was able to call upon Chris Massey as he has completed the series. Chris shared his experience and noted how the process made him feel more confident and ready to move into any position that may present itself. Chris recently joined the local Toro Distributor, Wesco Turf. As an aside, as they have done with the Everglades GCSA’s assistant superintendent meetings, they sponsored this event — they appreciate the value of the interaction.

The beauty of my comments is that they dovetailed nicely with the messaging of Rob Martin, GM/COO at Wycliff Country Club, who provided the education for the day. Rob discussed the importance of having both short-term, and daily plans that would help you get to your long-range plans or career goals. Without having coordinated our comments they built upon one another. Rob is a unique individual with an impressive resume. He became the GM at Wycliff at the age of 33 and as much as the youthful enthusiasm of the assistants in the room charged me up, his presentation was equally inspiring. If the assistants took away as much as I did from the day’s events, I am confident that our association will be in great hands moving forward.