Syngenta opens application window for SBI

Syngenta is now accepting applications for the 2024 Syngenta Business Institute professional development program, which will be held December 3-6 at the Graylyn International Conference Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Golf course superintendents will be able to apply online until Monday, August 19.

“We look forward to providing this opportunity for superintendents each year,” Syngenta turf market manager Stephanie Schwenke said. “We know superintendents have increasing business and managerial responsibilities, while still being expected to maintain excellent turf conditions. That’s why the education provided by Wake Forest University MBA professors is such an asset. Superintendents leave the program eager to implement new skills to improve their golf course operations.”

In partnership with the nationally ranked Wake Forest University Executive Education program, the 2024 SBI curriculum will feature educational courses designed to teach superintendents critical business leadership skills. Superintendents will also have the opportunity to build valuable connections with industry professionals throughout the week. Upon completion, participants will earn 1.5 GCSAA Education Points. Topics covered during this year’s program will include:

• Work/life balance
• Negotiations
• Leadership and decision-making
• Leading across cultures and generations  

“The faculty at Wake Forest and the team at Syngenta are committed to continuously improving the experience for attendees,” said Ian Gallagher, golf course superintendent at Sand Ridge Golf Club in Chardon, Ohio, who participated in the 2023 SBI program. “It shows through the thought-provoking and challenging education, coupled with networking with other superintendents. I am really glad I had the opportunity to be a part of SBI and encourage anyone thinking about it to take the time to apply. You won't regret it.”

Class size for SBI is limited to establish a strong interaction between participants and instructors. Applicants must now be a current GreenTrust 365 participant and employed in the U.S. as a golf course superintendent, director of agronomy, or similar position.

To apply, visit GreenCastOnline.com/SBI. Superintendents can also contact their local Syngenta territory manager for more information. To be considered, candidates must fill out an application, which includes a short essay on why they should be chosen to attend. Applications must be submitted online by midnight PDT on August 19. Selected participants will be notified in October.