News Golf
Green Start Academy taking applications for its annual development program for assistants

Green Start Academy, a leadership and developmental program for assistant golf superintendents, is now taking applications for its class of 2022.

Sponsored by John Deere, Bayer and Rain Bird, the academy is now in its 17th year and offers assistants key career development tools to help them propel their careers further. Such learning includes balancing budgets, managing DEI in the workplace, building resume and networking. The event is being held Dec. 12-14 at the Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina.

“The success that the graduates of Green Start Academy have seen throughout their careers is astounding,” Robert Schmidt, global manager of marketd evelopment & strategy, John Deere Golf, said. “We are thrilled to continue this storied legacy for the class of 2022 and look to see where the learning and networking opportunities, both with their peers and with industry experts, during the event will take them in their future career aspirations.”

Green Start Academy will invite 50 of the brightest assistant superintendents from across North America to Pinehurst for a unique educational and networking experience. From the lectures and round table discussions with the top leaders in the golf industry to best practice exchanges, Green Start provides assistants with knowledge and tips essential to their professional growth.

“The Green Start Academy provides assistant superintendents with the ability to build strong foundations for their careers and forge connections and skills that last a lifetime,” Tony Whelan, national sales manager for Rain Bird’s golf division, said. “Rain Bird is proud to continue to grow the industry through this program and partnership with John Deere and Bayer.”

This exclusive training program provides a platform that propels attendees towards personal success while also connecting the next generation of turf industry leaders and supporting the golf industry.

“We’re proud to continue our partnership with John Deere and Rain Bird for another year at Pinehurst through a program whose unique combination of mentorship and development training has left a lasting and positive impact on the industry,” Will MacMurdo, head of the U.S. turf & ornamentals business for Bayer, said.

The program is currently accepting applications through Aug. 1, 2022. Those interested can apply for a spot in this year’s class on the Green Start Academy website.