GCBAA Foundation names new board leadership, outlines 2026 vision

The GCBAA Foundation (Golf Course Builders Association of America Foundation) has named a newly structured Board of Directors, along with a renewed strategic focus designed to strengthen workforce development, education and industry outreach initiatives. 

During a special meeting held on March 30, 2026, the Foundation formally established a seven-member Board of Directors, reinforcing its commitment to a more engaged, forward-thinking leadership structure aligned with the evolving needs of the golf industry. 

The following individuals have been appointed to serve on the Foundation Board of Directors: John Holmes III, Atlas Turf International Limited; Ellen Davis, El’evated Core Strategies LLC ; Rick Shriver, Ewing Outdoor Supply; Stephanie Zimmerman, Advanced Drainage Systems; Chris Cameron, SportZmix Solutions/Waupaca Sand & Solutions; Dillon Hagy, JLG Industries/AUSA; Cory Blair, CapillaryFlow.

In addition, the Board elected John Holmes III to president; Ellen Davis, vice president; Rick Shriver, secretary/treasurer; and Matt Lohmann, Wadsworth Golf Construction Company, board liasison.

“This new board structure represents an important step forward in positioning the Foundation to make a greater impact on the future of our industry,” said Justin Apel, facilitator of the meeting and executive director of GCBAA. “We are aligning leadership, resources, and vision to better support workforce development and create meaningful opportunities across the golf course construction profession.” 

Strategic priorities 

The Foundation will focus its efforts on three primary initiatives including: 

Career Development Program. Expansion of the Foundation’s internship and career portal to connect students and emerging professionals with opportunities across golf course construction, design and supporting fields. 

Scholarship Program. Development of a new scholarship initiative aimed at supporting individuals pursuing education and careers within the golf industry. 

Education and Outreach. Increased engagement with high schools, technical education programs and community initiatives to raise awareness of career pathways in golf course construction. 

The newly appointed Board will begin immediate work on advancing these initiatives, with additional planning sessions scheduled in advance of the GCBAA Summer Meeting in Traverse City, Mich. Ongoing virtual meetings will support progress and collaboration between committees. 

“This is about building the future workforce of our industry,” Apel added. “By investing in people, education and opportunity, the Foundation is creating a stronger, more sustainable path forward for golf course construction.”