10th annual Green Start Academy now accepting applications

\John Deere Golf and Environmental Science, a division of Bayer CropScience, have opened the application process for the 10th annual Green Start Academy (GSA). Assistant superintendents in the United States and Canada may apply to become one of the 50 attendees.

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

“Since 2005, Green Start Academy has provided assistant superintendents with the tools to advance their careers and highlight their commitment to ongoing professional development,” says 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,” says 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.”

Applicants from every type of club and course will be considered by an independent panel of golf industry experts. Those selected will be notified by mid-August and 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, Golf Course 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;
• and Billy Weeks, Golf Superintendent, Duke University Golf Club;

Assistant superintendents interested in applying should visit backedbybayer.com.