Applications open for 2024 Syngenta Business Institute
Applications are now open for the 2024 Syngenta Business Institute (SBI) professional development program, which will be held at the Graylyn International Conference Center in Winston-Salem, N.C., Dec. 3-6. Golf course superintendents have until Monday, Aug. 19, to apply online.
“We look forward to providing this opportunity for superintendents each year,” said Stephanie Schwenke, turf market manager for Syngenta. “We know superintendents have increasing business and managerial responsibilities, while still being expected to maintain excellent turf conditions. That’s why the education provided by Wake Forest University MBA professors is such an asset. Superintendents leave the program eager to implement new skills to improve their golf course operations.”
In partnership with the nationally ranked Wake Forest University Executive Education program, the 2024 SBI curriculum will feature educational courses designed to teach superintendents critical business leadership skills. Superintendents will also be given the opportunity to build connections with industry professionals throughout the week. Upon completion, participants will earn 1.5 GCSAA Education Points.
Topics to be covered during this year’s program include:
- Work/life balance
- Negotiations
- Leadership/decision-making
- Leading across cultures and generations
“The faculty at Wake Forest and the team at Syngenta are committed to continuously improving the experience for attendees,” said Ian Gallagher, golf course superintendent at Sand Ridge Golf Club in Chardon, Ohio, who participated in the 2023 SBI program. “It shows through the thought-provoking and challenging education, coupled with networking with other superintendents. I am really glad I had the opportunity to be a part of SBI and encourage anyone thinking about it to take the time to apply. You won’t regret it.”
Class size for SBI is limited to establish a strong interaction between participants and instructors. Applicants must now be current GreenTrust 365 participants and employed in the U.S. as a golf course superintendent, director of agronomy or a similar position.
Supers can apply online or contact their local Syngenta territory manager for more information. To be considered, candidates must fill out an application, which includes a short essay on why they should be chosen to attend. Selected participants will be notified in October.