Application process open for Green Start Academy

John Deere Golf and Environmental Science, a division of Bayer CropScience, have announced the application process for the 10th annual Green Start Academy is now open. Assistant superintendents in the U.S. and Canada looking to further advance their careers; hone their skills in critical areas, including labor management and budgeting; and network with prominent professionals in the field are encouraged to apply.

The 10th anniversary of Green Start Academy will take place dually at the Bayer Development and Training Center in Clayton, N.C., and the John Deere Turf Care factory in nearby Fuquay-Varina, on Oct. 7-9. Those in attendance will meet with fellow professionals and gain valuable insights from top industry leaders. Fifty assistant superintendents will be selected as participants and will receive an all-expense-paid trip to attend the highly regarded event.

“Since 2005, Green Start Academy has provided assistant superintendents with the tools to advance their careers and highlight their commitment to ongoing professional development,” said Ren Wilkes, marketing manager for John Deere Golf. “Through programs like Green Start Academy, John Deere can help support the ongoing success of promising assistant superintendents who represent the future of the golf industry.”

Assistant superintendents interested in attending should complete the online application, which also includes submitting a resume and cover letter.

“It has been exciting to witness the evolution of GSA over the years, but one constant remains true,” said David Wells, golf business manager for the Bayer turf and ornamentals business. “The high quality applicants – all committed to the game of golf and to advancing their careers – continue to inspire Bayer’s ongoing commitment to elevate and equip the next generation of leaders to succeed and grow the industry.”

Consideration is given to all applicants, representing every type of club and course. An independent panel of golf industry experts will select the 50 highest-ranked applicants. Those who are selected to attend will be notified by mid-August. Individuals who are not selected will have the opportunity to take advantage of a professional resume review and critique. 

The 2015 GSA judging panel includes:
-- Chris Condon, Superintendent, Tetherow Golf Club
-- Jeff Corcoran, Manager, Golf Courses & Grounds, Oak Hill Country Club
-- Chris Dew, Superintendent, The National Golf Club of Canada
-- Bob Farren, CGCS, Director of Golf Courses and Grounds, Pinehurst Resort
-- Pat Finlen, CGCS, General Manager, The Olympic Club
-- Lukus Harvey, Director of Agronomy, Atlanta Athletic Club
-- Bryan Stromme, Regional Director of Agronomy, Midwest, Billy Casper Golf
-- Billy Weeks, Superintendent, Duke University Golf Club
   
Assistant superintendents interested in applying, or gathering more information, should visit http://www.backedbybayer.com/golf-course-management/green-start-academy.