The Green Start Academy was recently held in North Carolina, providing professional development for nearly 80 assistant superintendents from across North America.

Introduced in 2006 and hosted by John Deere Golf & Turf and Bayer Environmental Science, the two-day educational and networking event provides training in best management practices and innovative products, as well as career development from industry experts and peer networking.

"Education and professional development opportunities such as this lead to the success of not only these assistant superintendents, but also their courses and the industry as a whole," said Gregg Breningmeyer, John Deere Golf & Turf director of sales and marketing.

Neil Cleveland, director of U.S. green business at Bayer said, "These assistant superintendents have already shown a drive to improve and excel. Green Start Academy was created to encourage those desires and help them reach new levels in their careers."

Over the two days, participants attended education sessions focusing on golf course care and maintenance, professional development, industry regulations, turf science and recent research. The event also included tours of the Bayer and John Deere facilities. Attendees were also provided opportunities to network with leaders and peers in the golf industry, including representatives from GCSAA, the USGA and superintendents from top courses around the U.S.

Participants were chosen to attend after being nominated by their superintendent and submitting an essay to the academy.