The Certified Turf Equipment Manager program is the first certification program in the world for turf equipment manager professionals

Lawrence, Kan. (Aug. 29, 2023) – As the busy golf season begins to wind down this fall, it’s a great time for equipment managers to get started on earning the Certified Turf Equipment Manager (CTEM) status from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).

Developed by turf equipment mangers and educators under the guidance of a professional psychometrician, the CTEM designation is the highest recognition that a turf equipment management professional can achieve.  

Since GCSAA launched the Certified Turf Equipment Manager (CTEM) certification program in May of 2022, 25 GCSAA members have furthered their professional development by attaining the CTEM status. No matter where you are on your career path today, CTEM can help you become a leader in elevating your profession.

“My experience throughout the golf industry, ranging from crew member to assistant superintendent to service technician and leading into a Certified Turf Equipment Manager, has provided the unique ability to relate to all team members,” said Austin Wright, CTEM, 15-year GCSAA member who was recently named head equipment manager at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minn.

To qualify, you must be currently employed as a turf equipment manager; have three or more years of experience in turf equipment management; and have fully completed GCSAA’s Equipment Management Certificate Program (EMCP) Level 1 and Level 2.

Once completing the EMCP Level 1 and Level 2, eligible individuals may submit an application, which includes an application fee. After submitting an application and being accepted into CTEM, individuals will have 12 months to complete the attesting process. Eligible individuals are required to maintain their status as a turf equipment manager during these 12 months.

The final step is successfully passing the maintenance facility attesting process to earn the CTEM certification. The attesting, which can take place in person or virtually, will be conducted by two equipment managers who have already earned their CTEM designation.

Upon earning the CTEM certification, members are given a five-year renewal period.

If you have questions about CTEM, contact Diana Kern, sr. manager, CTEM certification and certificate progams, at 800-472-7878, ext. 3600.

For more information about the GCSAA’s CTEM program, visit www.gcsaa.org/ctem.