There’s a gap in this industry that doesn’t get much attention.

It’s not knowledge or work ethic. It’s leadership.

Moving from being a capable operator to an effective leader rarely happens on its own. For newer superintendents, that transition often plays out in real time, while expectations continue to build and the job doesn’t slow down to accommodate the learning curve.

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America has introduced the Advance Leadership Program to address that space. Designed for superintendents within their first five years, the program combines virtual sessions with in-person components, including time at GCSAA headquarters and the annual conference. The emphasis is on practical leadership. Communication, decision-making, and team management are at the center, rather than technical skill development.

Only eight participants will be selected for the 2026 class, which signals a more focused, high-investment approach rather than broad participation.

Programs like this matter because the superintendent role continues to expand. Technology is advancing, expectations are rising, and managing people remains one of the most complex parts of the job. Technical knowledge alone doesn’t carry that weight. Leadership does.

For full details, read the original announcement here:
GCSAA launches Advance Leadership Program

The industry has long developed strong technical professionals, but leadership development has been less consistent and often learned through trial and error. This program is a step toward closing that gap earlier in a superintendent’s career.

That kind of investment tends to show up in the quality of teams, communication, and decision-making across an operation. It’s not a shortcut, but it does provide structure where there often hasn’t been one.

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America is the professional association for the men and women who manage and maintain the game’s most valuable resource — the golf course. The golf industry recognizes the association as a key contributor in elevating the game and business.

Since 1926, with a focus on golf course management, GCSAA has been the top professional association in the United States and worldwide. Headquartered in Lawrence, Kan., it provides education, information and representation to 20,000 members in more than 78 countries. Its mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and improve communities through the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf.

The GCSAA Foundation, the philanthropic organization of GCSAA, secures funding and support to strengthen advocacy, education and research that advances the work of golf course management professionals.