After years of planning and efforts from many in the association and industry the Certified Turf Equipment Manager (CTEM) is now available. Just a few days after its debut, five GCSAA Equipment Manager (EM) members achieved this coveted designation – two of which hail from the Great Lakes region. Brian Bressler, a five-year GCSAA member and equipment manager at Medinah Country Club and Justin Prescott, also a five-year member who serves as EM at Kenosha Country Club, were two of the first wave who earned the CTEM designation.

The CTEM designation is the highest possible recognition equipment managers can achieve. It comes on the heels of the previously introduced Equipment Manager Certificate Program (EMCP) Levels 1 and 2 which are prerequisites for the CTEM designation.  

"My path to becoming a CTEM has been based on my commitment to continuing education and improving my skill set,” said Prescott, CTEM. “What it has become, is a passion. The CTEM designation, to me, says I love what I do, and reaching this pinnacle motivates and inspires me to perform at the top of my game and that I am qualified to share the excitement and knowledge I have gained through my experience with others who want not just a job, but a career in turf equipment management.”

The CTEM designation is just another resource GCSAA offers to EM members after officially welcoming the classification to the family in 2015. 

“I wanted to get the certification so that it shines light on our profession and how important our piece of the puzzle is,” says Bressler, CTEM. “Not everyone will get certified but for those who do, it shows how passionate and dedicated we are to our craft. Every course that I have worked at, all want the same thing, consistency. Consistency is key in the shop and the certification can help you achieve that.”

After working on the golf course for over decade and as a former assistant superintendent I know firsthand the importance of having a quality EM at the facility. Their role, experience, and expertise are critical in the success of any golf course. It is great to see the CTEM program come to fruition and provide additional recognition to this crucial golf course management role.