News Equipment Golf Mowers
Okotoks, Alta. equipment technician named tops in his profession by CGSA, Foley Company

      Kyle Francis, equipment manager/technician from D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club in Okotoks, Alta., has been named CGSA/Foley Company equipment technician of the year for 2022.

      The award is presented annually to the technician who best exhibits professionalism, innovation, and a team approach to make a significant contribution to their golf facility and the golf community.

      As winner of the award, Francis will receive an all-access registration to the Canadian 2023 Golf Course Management Conference Feb. 22-24 as well as four nights’ accommodation and transportation costs to Vancouver. He will be presented with his award on Wednesday, Feb. 22 during the awards luncheon, sponsored by Envu.

      “To say we hit the jackpot with our hire is an understatement,” Michael Roberts, superintendent at D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club, who nominated Francis, said. “Kyle is now completing sixth season at D’Arcy Ranch and has become not only a leader at our club, but a leader within the mechanics group in Alberta. At D’Arcy Ranch, Kyle manages our fleet of equipment as well as the fleet of golf cars. He is also highly involved in the training and managing of our 20-plus seasonal staff. With equipment prices soaring, he has been the key player in keeping our aging fleet in top condition. Over his time at our club, Kyle has been instrumental in aiding in getting our online record keeping programs running, has created regular maintenance schedule programs for our fleet and has continued to improve the functionality of his shop. Finally, and most important, Kyle has fostered an environment where all employees from any department feel comfortable in coming to him with any issues related to club equipment.”

      Pierre Vezeau, CGSA president, said Francis has proven his commitment to excellence and has raised the standard of the D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club, bringing recognition to the role of equipment technician.

      Paul Rauker, president/CEO, Foley Company, LLC, said Francis has conducted himself as a team player and a professional equipment manager.

      “He has shown true professionalism and leadership within his province and makes his challenging role of managing the equipment fleet look easy,” he said.

      Foley Company is the exclusive sponsor of this award.

      To register for the conference or to attend the awards ceremony, click here.