Hector Velazquez, creator of Hector’s Shop, is the winner of the 2018 Edwin Budding Award from GCSAA.
The Edwin Budding Award, named for the inventor of the lawn mower, is given annually to an equipment manager or related innovator, technician, educator or engineer who has made a significant impact in the golf and turf business.
Velazquez, nicknamed “The Tactical Technician,” began his career as a certified motorcycle technician more than 20 years ago. He is a videographer and video editor and produces educational videos in a series called “Hector’s Shop,” which aims to teach equipment technicians new skills. Velazquez also produces instructional videos for Home Depot’s tool rental department, mom and pop shops, and for his own website.
“These videos are about inspiring technicians, non-technicians and superintendents who have to carry the technician role themselves to think outside the box,” says Velazquez. “It’s so encouraging to me when I get emails or messages on social media about how they have been inspired by a video they saw. Many of these are from superintendents who also play the technician role at their course. Many also come from new technicians starting at their first course.”
Velazquez will formally receive the award at the 2019 Golf Industry Show in San Diego, where he will be recognized Feb. 6 at 11:30 a.m. at the “Inside the Shop” area on the trade show floor (booth No. 5929).
“Hector has added so much to the industry, not only as an equipment manager, but also by helping educate others,” says GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans. “Equipment managers are often known for being innovative and creative to get the job done, and Hector is a prime example of this. He truly embodies what the Budding Award represents.”
Velazquez has won several awards for his photography, video and multimedia work from the Turf & Ornamental Communicators Association. He offers on-site tech training and shop organization consultation, and speaks at hands-on-style classes. During the 2019 Golf Industry Show, Velazquez will be hosting “The Tactical Shop Series” within the Inside the Shop area.
“There are so many people in this industry that deserve this award. It is extremely humbling,” says Velazquez. “I am thankful to everyone that saw me fit to be awarded this, and I am absolutely honored.”
View the complete list of past Edwin Budding Award recipients.