Seven-year equipment manager member highlights professional development opportunities, support from GCSAA members and staff

Lawrence, Kan. (Dec. 3, 2024) – GCSAA member Brian Harper, equipment manager at Pendleton Golf Course in Fredericksburg, Va., has followed a unique professional path to get to where he is today. Before he got his footing in the turfgrass industry, he attempted a rock tour at age 18 followed by several years working in the service industry. Harper eventually realized he was ready for a career change and leaned into his love of golf. The free golf that came with working on a golf course was an initial driving force in switching gears; however, the work on the golf course ultimately inspired him to give it a shot in the turfgrass management industry.

Once Harper decided to make the switch to the turfgrass management profession, he quickly shifted his focus to obtaining the education needed to establish himself in his new career path. His turfgrass management education began in 2002 with the Turfgrass Ecology and Management Short Course at Virginia Tech University when David Chalmers, Ph.D., was the Extension agronomist. From there, Harper took advantage of the educational offerings from the Virginia GCSA and the Virginia Turfgrass Council. He became an equipment manager in 2005.

“When I started in the golf course management industry, it was from the very bottom,” Harper said. “I asked a million questions and had some really smart people who helped mentor me.”

Fellow GCSAA members and colleagues who have doubled as mentors for Harper over the years include Brian Roudabush, assistant golf course superintendent at Pendleton Golf Course; Jay Wade, CGCS at Magnolia Green Golf Club in Moseley, Va.; and Mike Maines, director of agronomy at Dominion Valley Country Club in Haymarket, Va. Harper also said that being a part of GCSAA has helped him foster relationships in the industry and has provided networking and educational opportunities that have helped him advance his career.

Harper was chosen for the 2023 Melrose Equipment Management Experience, which enabled him to attend his first GCSAA Conference and Trade Show and further expand his knowledge and network. He also credits Trent Manning, CTEM, and Manning’s “Reel Turf Techs Podcast” for motivating him to stay on his professional path. Harper is now working toward GCSAA’s Equipment Management Certificate Program Level 1 and Level 2, and his next goal will be to become a Certified Turf Equipment Manager.

“Becoming an equipment manager was the best move for my career,” Harper said. “It took a long time, but now I feel appreciated, my opinion counts and I’m aware of my worth to any facility.”

Harper is also grateful for the support he’s received from GCSAA staff members, including Kelli Norwood, director, learning and career development; and Mischia Wright, director, GCSAA Foundation development. He also enjoyed having the opportunity to spend time with GCSAA Immediate Past President Kevin P. Breen, CGCS; GCSAA President Jeff L. White, CGCS; and GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans as part of the Melrose Equipment Management Experience.

“Being a member of GCSAA is what makes me feel like I’m in touch with the industry and makes me feel like I have a seat at the table,” Harper said. “I haven’t even begun to scratch the surface on all of my member benefits, but I am grateful for the organization and to be in the industry.”
To learn more about GCSAA education, EMCP, CTEM and other opportunities for equipment managers, visit gcsaa.org.