Lawrence, Kansas, United States: The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) has partnered with John Deere to offer complimentary GCSAA student memberships for students enrolled in or intending to enrol in full-time in eligible turfgrass or related programmes.

Once they become members of the GCSAA, students will gain access to industry resources and information, webinars, career development tools, and a full network of GCSAA member superintendents to support their academic and professional growth.

“This programme encourages students to learn more about career paths within the turf industry,” said Manny Gan, Director of Global Golf Sales and Marketing with John Deere, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation. “Through this free membership, students can access the GCSAA knowledge base and connect with peers and mentors to learn more about the golf industry.”

John Deere has been an avid supporter of students pursuing careers in golf course management. As the long-time sponsor of the GCSAA Collegiate Turf Bowl, they have helped college teams from around the country showcase their skills during the annual competition at the Golf Industry Show.

They are also sponsoring the Student Hub (Booth 2007) on the trade show floor during the 2020 Golf Industry Show in Orlando in January. The Student Hub is a dedicated space for collegians to interact with peers, connect with alumni and have great accessibility to on-site career development services.

“As one of our long-standing partners, John Deere has always realised the important role students play in shaping the future of the industry,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “We thank them for providing complimentary GCSAA memberships for students, which will help tomorrow’s industry leaders build a solid network and knowledge base as they start their professional journey.”

John Deere is a Platinum Partner, the highest level, in GCSAA’s Partner Recognition Programme. GCSAA’s Partner Recognition Programme provides year-round exposure based on a prescribed level of investment. GCSAA industry partners can choose among Platinum, Gold or Silver levels as a means to achieve marketing objectives. Each level provides partners unique communications and recognition options to position themselves in the marketplace.

“Education, industry insight and relationships are critical in building a successful career in the golf industry,” Gan said. “Through this free membership program, John Deere will support students in these efforts to further develop the next generation of leaders.”