In this episode of Leadership on the Links, host Tyler Bloom interviews Shane Conroy, a GCSAA field staff representative, about his unconventional career path and his role as a field rep. They discuss the importance of getting involved in the industry and the various programs available for personal and professional development. They also touch on the role of Superintendents in encouraging their team members to engage in the industry and the rewarding aspects of the job. They discuss the challenges of promoting the industry and the importance of workforce development programs like apprenticeships. They also highlight the First Green program and its impact on changing perceptions of golf course management. The conversation highlights the importance of promoting the golf course industry and engaging with the local community. It emphasizes the need for Superintendents to be ambassadors for their facilities and share their stories. The discussion also touches on the growth and popularity of the golf industry, the increasing compensation for Superintendents, and the importance of professional development and education. The conversation concludes with a fun segment of rapid-fire questions. Takeaways Getting involved in the golf course management industry is important for personal and professional development. Superintendents play a crucial role in encouraging their team members to engage in the industry and providing opportunities for growth. Workforce development programs, such as apprenticeships, are essential for recruiting and developing talent in the industry. The First Green program is an effective way to change perceptions of golf course management and promote the industry to students, teachers, and parents. Superintendents should promote themselves and their facilities to bridge the gap between the golf course industry and the local community. The golf industry is growing and becoming more popular, providing exciting opportunities for superintendents and the industry as a whole. Compensation for superintendents is increasing to reflect the dedication and passion they have for their facilities. Professional development and education are crucial for personal and professional growth in the golf course industry. Getting involved in associations and local chapters can provide valuable networking opportunities and enhance career development. Soundbytes "My hope is that anyone listening to this today will explore getting involved in the industry and engage in a variety of different programs." "If you do what you love, you never work a day in your life." "Superintendents have a big effect on the lives of their team members, both professionally and personally." "I had no idea there was so much math, so much science, so much technology behind this profession." "You're hopefully introducing them to a game that they can enjoy for the next 40, 50 years." "You're reengaging with when you were at your formative years. Learning the game of golf, learning the industry." Chapters 00:00: Introduction 01:25: The Importance of Industry Involvement and Professional Development 08:29: The Role of Superintendents in Encouraging Engagement 15:06: The Significance of Workforce Development Programs 22:33: Changing Perceptions through the First Green Program 25:57: Becoming Ambassadors for Golf Course Facilities 33:19: The Growing Popularity of the Golf Industry 35:08: Increasing Compensation for Superintendents 37:29: The Importance of Professional Development and Education 39:05: Getting Involved in Associations and Local Chapters