Golf Course Superintendents Association of America welcomes equipment managers with membership
Lawrence, Kan. (April 28, 2015) – The membership of the International Golf Course Equipment Managers Association (IGCEMA) voted Monday to dissolve the association, with roughly 370 equipment managers being welcomed to the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) with membership in 2015.
“Our association has continued to grow, and we have reached a point where our growth has outpaced our resources as a volunteer group,” said Stephen Tucker, former IGCEMA chief executive officer and the equipment manager at Tranquilo Golf Club at Four Seasons in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. “This is a good day, and we are excited at the possibilities for equipment technicians around the world now to be part of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.”
GCSAA voted at its annual meeting in February to introduce an equipment manager classification for membership. It was a vote to strengthen ties with equipment managers and recognize their vital role at a golf facility.
“We recognize that equipment managers are an integral part of our membership and a vital part of the successful golf course management team,” said John J. O’Keefe, CGCS, GCSAA president. “We hope all facilities will encourage their equipment managers to become a valuable part of the association.”
All equipment managers will be welcomed with a complimentary introductory membership through 2015 and can register online at www.gcsaa.org. GCSAA will continue to expand upon its educational programs and services to assist the profession, and continue the IGCEMA certificate program.
ICGEMA was formed in 2006, and the following year created the Edwin Budding award to recognize technical professionals who have helped to shape the turf industry. The award, which will be adopted by GCSAA, is named for the designer of the first cylinder mower.
About GCSAA and the EIFG
The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to nearly 18,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter.
The Environmental Institute for Golf is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to foster sustainability through research, awareness, education, programs and scholarships for the benefit of golf course management professionals, golf facilities and the game. Visit EIFG at www.eifg.org or find us on Facebook or Twitter.
Contact:
Craig Smith, Director, Communications and Media Relations
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 4431 or 785-691-9197 (cell)
csmith@gcsaa.org
