John Jeffreys, GCSAA Class A superintendent at Pinehurst #2 speaks to Green Start Academy attendees at The Cradle course at Pinehurst.Photo by Phil Cauthon
Fifty assistant superintendents from around the U.S. and Canada gathered last week at Pinehurst Resort in Pinehurst, N.C., for the 19th annual Green Start Academy (GSA). The three-day event is a professional development program for assistant superintendents sponsored by John Deere, Envu and Rainbird.
The GSA program is centered around veteran superintendent "mentors" sharing lessons learned via presentations, panel discussions, and group discussions. Among the topics included in the agenda are developing skill sets such as building teams, organizational communication, cultivating relationships and advancing your career.
Mentor John Zimmers, superintendent at the Inverness Club, encouraged attendees to establish relationships with as many mentors, sponsors and fellow attendees as possible, knowing some of those relationships may last their entire careers.
"The opportunity you have in front of you is unlimited. If you're willing to put a lot into it you're going to get a lot out it. It will change your life," said Zimmers, a 32-year GCSAA member.
Brian Hampson, senior vice president of science and agronomy at Troon Golf, said reading as much as possible and soaking up information from wherever you can get it is essential to professional development.
"One of the best opportunities is to regularly schedule time with your superintendent and ask a ton of questions," said Hampson, a 26-year association member. "Who you're working with currently is a big determinant of your future. If you're not getting good mentorship where you're at, don't be afraid to move around. Mentorship is extremely important."
Phil Cuffare, director of agronomy at Oakland Hills Country Club, said honing communication skills is paramount to advancing your career. He said it's key to separate yourself to stand out.
"Writing a personalized hand-written thank you note, just something as simple as that, will make you stand out from almost everybody else," said Cuffare, a 24-year association member.
"If you can develop a communications skill set in your mid-20s, it's going to help you your whole career. Yes, concentrate on growing grass. But you won't get the next job if you can't communicate."
Cuffare recommended being willing to learn from people from all sectors, not just those in the turf industry. "You can learn something every single day from people who aren't in our industry that will help you do your job better and advance your career," he said.
He also said it's important to not be afraid of making mistakes, and — when you do — own up to it immediately. "Fall on your sword. The sooner you can acknowledge your mistake head-on, the sooner you can move on. There is no sense in beating around the bush," Cuffare said. "Don't be afraid to make a mistake, because if you are, that means you aren't trying very hard."
Phil Cauthon (pcauthon@gcsaa.org) is GCM’s managing editor.