Applications open for 14th annual Green Start Academy

The application process for the 14th annual Green Start Academy (GSA) is now open.

John Deere Golf and Bayer are accepting applications through June 28. The event will take place from Oct. 23-25 at the Bayer Development and Training Center in Clayton, N.C., the John Deere Turf Care factory in nearby Fuquay-Varina and John Deere headquarters in Cary, N.C.

GSA is open to assistant superintendents from the U.S. and Canada who are looking to advance their careers. Opportunities to develop critical business skills, expand their business network and learn from notable industry experts are provided throughout the two-day event held each October in North Carolina.

“Green Start Academy offers an opportunity for assistant superintendents to get invaluable face time with notable industry professionals,” said Ren Wilkes, tactical marketing manager for John Deere Golf. “Since 2005, John Deere has taken great pride in contributing to the next generation of superintendents through this program. The relationships created during GSA last a lifetime, and our alumni are a testament to the success of the event.”

Those selected will receive an all-expenses paid trip to the Raleigh, N.C.-area. The chosen assistant superintendents will be notified during the week of Aug. 5.

“Green Start Academy was designed to cultivate skills in budgeting, leadership and management,” said Mike Hirvela, customer marketing manager, golf, Bayer. “In addition, Green Start Academy provides a venue for networking and peer to peer interaction. We’re honored to help assistants grow their roles as future leaders of golf course management.”

Those interested in applying can do so at the Green Start Academy website.