GCBAA Foundation Announces New Board Leadership and Strategic Direction for 2026 and Beyond

The GCBAA Foundation (Golf Course Builders Association of America Foundation) has announced the appointment of 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 the following officers:



• President: John Holmes III
• Vice President: Ellen Davis
• Secretary/Treasurer: Rick Shriver
• Board Liaison: Matt Lohmann, Wadsworth Golf Construction Company

“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:

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.

Looking Ahead

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, Michigan. 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.”


About the GCBAA Foundation

The GCBAA Foundation supports the growth and sustainability of the golf course construction industry through workforce development, education, outreach, and charitable initiatives. Its programs are designed to inspire, educate, and connect the next generation of industry professionals.