by
Shane Conroy
| Apr 12, 2023
Last week I mentioned one of the great Class A, AA, and ART member benefits which has graciously been extended from the governing body at Augusta National. While this certainly is a wonderful incentive to work towards earning your GCSAA Class A membership, it’s without a doubt not the only reason.
When I first joined GCSAA as a Class C member, I obviously knew there were different classifications; however, it wasn’t until I got more involved in the association that I knew the differences between the classifications. With this in mind, this week, I’m focusing on GCSAA Class A membership and what it takes to earn your Class A status.
37. GCSAA Class A Membership
First of all, who is a GCSAA Class A member? They are a golf industry professional who possesses knowledge, skills and abilities through a combination of education, experience, professional development and environmental stewardship and has met and continues to fulfill ongoing Class A renewal requirements.
So, what are the requirements to earn your Class A membership? They are based on this sliding scale. Once you earn your Class A membership, the renewal requirements are as follows:
- Earn a total of 5 points, with a minimum of 3 points in continuing education. The remaining 2 points can be earned through continuing education and/or golf-centric service point activities.
- You must also maintain a current pesticide license or complete the IPM exam during each five-year renewal cycle.
Earning your Class A membership is a great professional accomplishment. Here at GCSAA, we know the level of dedication and commitment it takes to become a Class A member. Again, with this in mind, there is a toolkit available to help you promote this great career achievement – so please take advantage and promote what you do on and off the course.
Additionally, the GCSAA bylaws were recently amended regarding Class A membership. If you previously held Class A membership in GCSAA, but reclassified due to a change in employment status, you are now eligible to reinstate your Class A status — however, you must continue to fulfill ongoing Class A requirements.
If you have earned your Class A membership — congratulations on this great career achievement! If you are currently a Class B member and are wondering what is needed to make the move to Class A, please reach out to your local field rep.
As always, if you missed a previous post in this series, please check them out below: