Eggronomist Advice

Curious if there’s a FEGC contingent of superintendents or turf professionals willing to share some perspective.

I’m 34, married, no kids, and no interest in fighting. About a year ago, I left a flying career with the Air Force to pursue my passion for golf. I’m currently on the agronomy team at a private club in the Denver metro area and fortunate to be learning under a great superintendent who’s been generous with mentorship and GCSAA exposure. I’m also starting Penn State’s turfgrass management program this January.

While that guidance has been invaluable, I’d love to hear from people with different paths especially those who care deeply about golf course design and architecture. It often feels like the industry rewards the “hard chargers” chasing PGA events or ultra-private, blank-check clubs. I respect that path; I’m just not convinced it’s mine.

I’m drawn to the idea of working on a Golden Age course, or one with architectural significance. I want to work extremely hard for good people and a good course, but I also value a healthy culture over constant high-pressure environments. With internships on the horizon and a later start into the industry, I’m trying to be intentional rather than impulsive.

Am I naive, or is there a realistic lane in turf for someone wired this way?