Twenty-nine students from universities across the United States attended this year's Future Turf Managers program at Jacobsen's headquarters in Charlotte, NC.

University students enjoy Future Turf Managers event

Twenty-nine students from universities across the United States attended this year’s Future Turf Managers (FTM) program at Jacobsen’s headquarters in Charlotte, NC.  Jacobsen is a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company.


The students were recommended by their professors as being top level candidates with great prospects to become future leaders as they progress in their careers. Since its inception back in the 1970s, over 700 students have participated in the Future Turf Managers program.


Jeff Kent, superintendent at the Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, explained how he prepared for the recent PGA tour championship and how he was getting the course back in shape after the tournament. John Patterson, president of the International Golf Course Equipments Managers’ Association, gave his thoughts on the importance of building a good working relationship with your technician.


Brian Wingerd, a GCSAA business development manager, spoke of the value and the resources available for members of the association and Dr. Charles Peacock, professor of Turfgrass Science at NC State University and FTM alumnus, stressed the importance of continuous professional development to ensure a progressive career path.  In addition he gave his thoughts on how the environment and sustainability will impact superintendents in the coming years.


The final presentation by Chad Price, an executive member of the Sports Turf Managers’ Association (STMA), included a look at the value of the Green Industry to the US economy and the structure and benefits of membership of the STMA.


 


Reflecting on the value of the Future Turf Managers program, Brandon Arnold of Washington State University said,


“This has been an unbelievable and hugely enjoyable experience. I can’t believe how well we’ve been treated and the quality and experience of the speakers has been fantastic; I’ll definitely put this on my resume so that potential employers realize how special it was for me to attend the FTM program. The value has been immense and the points for GCSAA accreditation and the complimentary student membership was a pleasant surprise”


Commenting at the close of the event, Dan Wilkinson, Jacobsen’s president said,


“At Jacobsen we are committed to giving future turf professionals a practical view of the profession, while offering guidance, support and the added value of our experience to help them embrace our industry. It was a great three days and my thanks go to everyone who helped make it such a success.”