Let’s discuss “The Mechanic”. That is what we called them in the 1970’s and 1980’s. They are the Equipment Managers or the Equipment Technicians as they are called today. Basically, they are magicians and we as Golf Course Superintendents could not be successful...

I can’t say that I started as an “Intern”, but like many in those days and still today I did a career change after seeing how great golf course work could be. I was working for Paul O’Leary at Towson Golf & Country Club (1977-1986) to help put myself through...

Most superintendents will tell you they have MANY interactions throughout the year. Many of us talk about finally writing “THE BOOK” including many of the best interactions with customers + members that we’ve had over the years, but I digress, LOL! Instead, I'll tell...

“Just the facts Ma’am!”, Joe Friday would always say. Now I am dating myself! People in our business always ask, “How did you stay at one Golf Course Superintendent job for 20 years?” There are many responses, but the biggest one that comes to mind is this, “Just Give...

I can’t say that there was ONE BIG environmental challenge because as everyone who works outdoors knows, the environment is constantly changing, and you will be challenged every day! These outdoor roles do not put you in an office environment where you can control the...

Without a doubt, Human Beings outside the fence! (I am hoping others will also share their stories!) All Turf Managers can talk to you about unusual situations with human beings from the outside of their business, but you never know what you will find these folks...

Like an NFL football coach, you train for the unexpected moments that bifront you! Get the plays together and practice them, you don’t wait for them to come to you. Heavy rain, thunderstorms, flooding, lightning strikes, high winds, snow, sleet, hail, vandalism, fire,...

From irrigation and equipment to computers and turf science, as technology changes so does the way you do things. This is constant! You need to change with it, become educated about it, or you will fall behind. I started in 1973 with ALL snap valves at Piney Branch...

My biggest “Moment of Success” was attaining CGCS status! It was a tough six-part, 6 hour exam and you had to pass all of it. Some folks play this down, and requirements have changed a bit, but to me it is like when a lawyer passes the bar, or any career professional...

Network! Network! Network! Go to local, regional, and national meetings! Always be ready to shake a hand and introduce yourself. Learn the art of communication. The people you meet under this large umbrella of “Turfdom” will end up being your family, your friends,...