The Golden Valley FFA Turf Program recently returned from an educational trip that gave students a firsthand look at careers in the turfgrass industry. Alongside Atwater High School, students participated in this unique experience led by instructors Kevin Magill of Golden Valley HS and Dave Gossman of Atwater HS.
Throughout the trip, students visited top-tier facilities and connected with professional grounds crew members from organizations including the USC athletic facilities, Arizona State University, and Major League Baseball teams such as the Cleveland Guardians, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago White Sox, Texas Rangers, Kansas City Royals, Seattle Mariners, and San Diego Padres. Students also had the valuable opportunity to meet with a golf course superintendent from Sun City, gaining insight into the management and maintenance of high-level golf facilities.
“This experience provided students with real-world exposure to the skills, expectations, and dedication required in the turf industry,” Magill stated. “By interacting directly with professionals, students were able to ask questions, observe advanced techniques, and explore potential career pathways within turf and sports field management.
“With a growing program of over 80 students, opportunities like this are essential in shaping the future of the Golden Valley Turf Program,” he added. “Students returned motivated, inspired, and equipped with new knowledge and skills they can apply to improve campus fields and continue building a strong, hands-on program focused on career readiness and industry connections.”
