Syngenta Business Institute now accepting applications for 2018 program

Golf course superintendents can now apply for the 2018 Syngenta Business Institute (SBI).

This year’s program — which marks the 10th anniversary — will take place Dec. 3-6 in Winston-Salem, N.C. Approximately 25 superintendents will be selected to attend the program.

​​​​​​​Through a partnership with Wake Forest University School of Business, selected participants will spend three days learning from business school professors about key topics such as: financial management, navigating generational and cultural differences, leadership skills, effective communication and negotiation tactics.

To be considered, candidates must complete an online application, which includes relevant work experience and educational background, as well as a short essay on why they should be selected.

“We know golf course superintendents are not only responsible for conditioning their turf to perform at its best, but are also expected to be team leaders who maintain essential business skills,” said Stephanie Schwenke, turf market manager for Syngenta. “Syngenta has a long history of providing innovative products, and for the past 10 years we’ve taken great pride in providing superintendents with skills they can use to help improve their course operations.”

Since its inception, superintendents have recognized this program for its effectiveness and impact on their careers.

“All of the classes at the Syngenta Business Institute feel like they’ve been designed to make you take a step back from the day-to-day grind and look at yourself,” said Josh Pope, golf course superintendent at The Old White TPC at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va., who attended SBI in 2017. “It’s important for us to engage like this and widen our support network within the industry. SBI is a must-do on the bucket list of conferences. It’s very self-rewarding and eye-opening about how to manage your career and course.”

Completed SBI applications are due Tuesday, Aug. 14. Participants will be notified of their acceptance into the 2018 Syngenta Business Institute in October.

Join the conversation on Twitter by using #SBI18.

Learn more about the program here.