Apex, North Carolina – Golf Business Network (GBN) proudly announces the schedule for GBN University at the Show, an education and networking event held at the 2025 Show. Taking place January 21–23 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, this comprehensive program features over 12 impactful educational sessions and three social hours designed to elevate industry standards and provide networking opportunities for GBN Members.
A Transformative Educational Experience
GBN University offers a carefully curated selection of classes, workshops, and panels addressing critical topics for private golf club professionals at every stage of their careers. From leadership development to cutting-edge retail strategies, the sessions provide actionable insights from some of the industry’s top minds. The GBN Advisory Board will also play an integral role in hosting and guiding these classes, bringing their expertise and leadership to the forefront.
Tuesday, January 21 Highlights:
- GBN Annual Meeting (8:00–11:00 AM): Gain exclusive insights into the services and opportunities provided for GBN Members in 2025.
- Women in the Industry Keynote & Happy Hour (4:00–6:00 PM): A special session featuring prominent female leaders in the industry, concluding with a networking happy hour.
Wednesday, January 22 Highlights:
- Beyond the Booking: Mastering Member Travel Excellence (8:30–9:30 AM): Explore best practices for creating unforgettable member travel experiences.
- The Mentor’s Playbook – Assistant Golf Professional Meeting (10:00–11:00 AM): Engage with experienced leaders as they share their playbook for success.
- Retain, Develop, Lead: Mastering Team Growth and Retention (11:30 AM–12:30 PM): Unlock effective strategies for team management and career development.
- Merchandising Mastery: Blending Virtual and In-Shop Strategies (1:00–2:00 PM): Discover how to seamlessly integrate online and in-store retail strategies.
- Beyond the Paycheck: Navigating and Maximizing Club Benefits (2:30-3:30 PM): Understand and optimize your benefits package, including health, retirement, and wellness programs, to create a well-rounded financial and professional plan.
- Leaders in the Industry Panel (3:30–4:30 PM): Hear from industry veterans Brendan Walsh, Nathan Olhoff, Joe Connerton, and Cameron Wiebe.
- End the day with an evening Happy Hour (4:30–6:30 PM).
Thursday, January 23 Highlights:
- Relationships Matter: Mentorship & Development (8:30–9:30 AM): Explore innovative approaches to member relations and team cohesion.
- Crafting Unforgettable Tournaments (10:00–11:00 AM): Learn the secrets to hosting exceptional tournaments and event
- Staying Ahead of the Curve: Current Trends in Golf Retail (11:30 AM–12:30 PM): Identify key industry trends and actionable strategies for golf retailers to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing landscape.
- Moving Upward: Path from Golf Professional to General Manager (1:00–2:00 PM): Chart a pathway to leadership with guidance from experienced professionals.
- Transforming Feedback into Action: Strategies for Effective Implementation (2:30-3:30 PM): Learn the importance of gathering feedback but also implementing it effectively, creating a culture of accountability and responsiveness.
- Teaching and Playing: The Dual Path to Golf Excellence (3:30–4:30 PM): Examine the essential connection between teaching and actively playing the game in a discussion led by Bob Ford.
- Close the day with the final Happy Hour (4:30–6:30 PM).
A Community of Innovation and Connection
GBN University at the Show is a unique opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, engage with vendors, and expand horizons in a collaborative environment.
“GBN University at the Show is designed to empower those at the forefront of daily club operations to lead the conversation on professional development in the private club industry,” said Julia Nittoli, Event Manager, Golf Business Network. “Attendees will leave inspired, informed, and better prepared to excel in their roles at private facilities.”
Connect with GBN Vendor Partners on the Show Floor
GBN Vendor Partners will be on-site at The Show, offering attendees a unique opportunity to connect with trusted industry vendors and learn about their latest products and services. This is an ideal time for GBN Members to take full advantage of their GBN Exclusive Benefits, including special pricing, promotions, and tailored solutions designed to enhance private club operations. Don’t miss this chance to strengthen vendor relationships and discover innovative tools to support your facility’s success.
Registration Information
For a detailed schedule and to register, visit the links below:
- GBN Members: Register Here
- Non-Members: Register Here
About Golf Business Network:
Golf Business Network is the premier resource for PGA Professionals in the private golf industry, offering exclusive access to job opportunities, vendor benefits, educational programs, and networking events. GBN connects members with tools and resources to grow their careers and elevate their clubs.
Interested in joining? Request membership here.
