In August, the New York State Turfgrass Association welcomed it's inaugural class of nine turfgrass apprentices. In conjunction with SUNY Delhi, the following apprentices embarked on a two-year program that will allow them to advance their careers in the turfgrass industry while continuing to work at the same time. Here is what some of the apprentices and their employers had to say about the program. 

I worked landscaping while in college for business. When I graduated in 2020, I struggled finding a solid job amidst the pandemic and stayed landscaping. I began focusing on lawn care, and decided I would be better suited with a career in turf. I applied to numerous golf courses and professional sports teams, just looking to get a foot in the door, but was turned away due to a lack of formal turf education. Noyac finally offered me on the job training as well as formal education in one form or another. Ultimately, we chose apprenticeship so I could continue working and making money while I took classes. It worked great with my learning style as I was able to learn concepts through education and immediately practice and perfect them in real life applications. My goal with this apprenticeship is to become a golf course superintendent at one of the world's top clubs. Thank you to NYSTA, SUNY Delhi, and Noyac Golf Club for helping me make this goal attainable. 

I have always loved early mornings and the outdoors. I was fortunate enough to start working at a golf course in my mid twenties. I appreciate the opportunity to expand my knowledge and responsibility for a job that I take great pleasure in.

Comments From Participating Employers .....

"I believe this program is a tremendous opportunity for a variety of different people. It provides an opportunity for high school graduates who never knew the ins and outs of our business, but enjoyed it while working a summer position, a person who may be changing careers and found a love for our industry, and even a retired person who wants to venture into another opportunity. The education is spectacular and it provides an excellent opportunity to grow within our industry.”

Scott Blough

Nassau Country Club

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"As President of Elbers Landscape and Great Lakes Athletic Fields, we're incredibly proud to see Dylan take this next step by joining the New York State Turfgrass Association Apprenticeship Program. This opportunity will be invaluable for his career path, providing advanced skills that will enhance both his personal growth and the capabilities of our team. In fields like ours, where attracting and developing future leaders is vital, programs like NYSTA's apprenticeship play a critical role. Having served as past president of NYSTA, I recognize how essential these initiatives are in cultivating the next generation of talent that will sustain our industry."

James E Hornung, Jr., CSP, CLP

Elbers Landscape Service, Inc.

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"The NYSTA apprentice program has allowed our club to formally invest in the education of employees who show an active interest in advancing their careers in the turfgrass industry. Whether the employee has only hands-on work experience or some form of secondary education in a nonrelated field, this program is adapted for all.  In the past, I had several employees who had taken short courses during the winter, and they all wished for more in-depth understanding and education. The SUNY Delhi curriculum provides this pathway for employees while giving them the ability to continue working and earning money throughout their education. Thank you to NYSTA for embarking on this initiative, as recognizing, cultivating and promoting the advancement of staff members is critical to the success of our club and the turf industry."

Tom Kaplun

North Hempstead Country Club

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“Being able to utilize this opportunity through NYSTA and become involved in the Apprenticeship program has been extremely rewarding. It allows us at Windham Golf Club to shape skilled talent while investing in the future of our workforce”

Anthony Minniti

Windham Golf Club

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"My assistant approached me about wanting to receive his turfgrass certificate and after doing research and networking, we decided to go with NYSTA Apprentice Program and couldn’t be happier! It has allowed him to continue to work, further his education and begin asking deeper questions in regard to turf science. The program has been easy to set up, and having Sue there to answer any questions and help in the process has made it a breeze! I have another employee looking to do the same, and will for sure be enrolling him in the apprentice program in the future!"

Stephen Stewart

Yahnundasis Golf Club

To learn more about the program and how it can benefit both employers and employees, please visit our website.