I just sent my youngest boys back to school with their brand new shoes and freshly pressed uniform shirts and shorts. Let me tell you, they were not so excited to wake up prior to 10 a.m. for the first time since last school year! As a matter of fact, they are so looking forward to this upcoming school year that my youngest son, Logan, asked how many days there are until Christmas break as he was walking out of the door! (There are 128 days, in case you are interested.) 

Although my sons may not have seemed too ecstatic about the proposition of heading back to the classroom, I am very excited about the educational opportunities. I am also very excited about the educational opportunities currently available to members of GCSAA. We have really been busy promoting the learning options available, and I am certain there are offerings that will appeal to every member. As a GCSAA member, there are lots of things ongoing to be excited about in terms of available education. It is kind of like headed back to school, in a good way…

For the members who have limited time away from the golf course, we have the live and on-demand webinars available on the GCSAA website. The beauty of these sessions, besides being free to members, is that you can participate in them from the comfort of your own office requiring minimal time away from one’s duties. It is possible to tune up on the latest agronomic practices, environmental issues, or even catch an update on our latest advocacy concerns while eating your lunch.

We at GCSAA are aware that assistant superintendents are staying in that capacity for a longer period than was realized in the past. We have been diligently working on education that will help them make the transition into the superintendent role. They will also become a more valuable asset at their current facility. The Assistant Superintendent Certificate Series is available to enhance their knowledge in the areas of Golf Course Agronomy, Golf Course Business, and coming in the future Leadership and communication as well as Best Management Practices/Environmental Management. The obvious benefit is increased knowledge in these disciplines. It may also be a key factor in distinguishing oneself from the rest of the crowd when it comes to applying for that next position.

In the same fashion, we are currently offering the Turf Equipment Technicians Certification Program. This is an excellent opportunity available to all members but geared toward equipment managers to augment their knowledge in a variety of areas. Proficiency will be tested in eight key components and over three levels that will ultimately lead to becoming a certified turf equipment technician. Among the areas of concentration are cutting units, drive trains, electrical systems, and hydraulic systems.

I am personally excited by these offerings and know that as a superintendent, assistant superintendent, or equipment technician there are more than a few gems to be gathered from these programs. Unlike my boys who still have 128 days to go until their Christmas break, you can pursue these educational options at a pace that is comfortable for you and meets the demands of your job. No need to drag your feet as you head out the door in your new shoes…Immerse yourself in these opportunities and see what tomorrow offers.

Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.” – Henry Ford