GCSAA publishes specialized information on a frequent basis that drills down on top advocacy issues and activities.
The 2026 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show (CTS) is quickly approaching, and the government affairs team would like to highlight a few key events we’re excited to host. Whether you’re a Grassroots Ambassador, an industry advocate or someone who just wants to learn more about issues impacting golf course management, we’d love to connect with you.
See the schedule below for government affairs events happening in Orlando including advocacy training sessions, issue updates and networking opportunities. In addition to these events, the GCSAA government affairs team will be at the Member Services booth on the trades show floor Wednesday and Thursday, where we look forward to connecting with you. Learn more about each of these events.
Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026
Ambassador Academy 1 (must be an Ambassador to attend)
Room W207AB
1–3 p.m.
Enjoy Beers With Bob…a GCSAAPAC event!
Room W207C
3 p.m. following Ambassador Academy 1
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026
Ambassador Academy 2 (must be an Ambassador to attend)
Room W207AB
1–3 p.m.
Grassroots Ambassadors Happy Hour
Room W207C
3 p.m. following Ambassador Academy 2
Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026
Government Affairs General Session
Feat. Excellence in Gov. Affairs Award winner
GCSAATV Stage (Trade Show floor)
11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Grassroots Ambassadors will have two opportunities to attend Ambassador Academy training during CTS. Identical sessions are offered to provide flexibility and will take place on Tuesday, February 3, from 1–3 p.m., and Wednesday, February 4, from 1–3 p.m. Both sessions will be co-hosted by Michael Lee and Kelly Lonker and will feature special guest Dr. Frank Wong, who will offer additional insight. The trainings will focus on advocacy priorities, engagement strategies and preparing ambassadors for effective outreach in the year ahead.
Immediately following Tuesday’s Ambassador Academy, attendees are invited to join Beers with Bob, a GCSAAPAC reception, starting at 3 p.m. This casual event provides a relaxed opportunity to continue conversations, connect with fellow advocates and support GCSAA’s Political Action Committee.
Following Wednesday’s Ambassador Academy, all ambassadors are invited to the Ambassador Happy Hour at 3 p.m. This gathering offers a chance to grab a drink, recharge and network with peers before the evening events begin.
The week concludes with the GCSAA Government Affairs General Session: Policy and Politics on Thursday, Feb. 5, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. GCSAA’s Government Affairs team will provide an overview of current policy issues impacting the golf industry, highlight upcoming legislative and regulatory developments and identify key issues superintendents should monitor in the year ahead.
We look forward to seeing you throughout the week in Orlando. Whether you visit us on the Trade Show floor, attend a training session or join one of our events, we encourage you to connect with the Government Affairs team at this once-in-a-century show!