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A panel of experts will be discussing the labor shortages affecting the industry. We are witnessing a variety of trends:

• Seasoned sports field managers are pursuing positions on the commercial side
• Fewer young people are pursing turfgrass science as a career path in college
• Fewer interns are available to gain on-the-job experience
• The pool of qualified job candidates is shrinking for employers trying to hire

We have assembled a diverse panel to address these issues from various angles. Your moderator, Keith Winter, Head Groundskeeper for the Fort Wayne TinCaps, will lead the discussion in an interview style format and add his own experience with difficulty finding and hiring personnel. Dr. John Sorochan, Distinguished Professor at University of Tennessee, will address the decreasing rate of enrollment in turfgrass science programs at the collegiate level and some strategies to attract young people to the field. Abby McNeal, CSFM, CPRP, CABI, Field Superintendent, City Wide Operations for Denver Parks and Recreation will discuss unique ways she has been balancing the labor shortage. Andrew Miller, Program Director for Brentsville Turfgrass Management Program will discuss his recruitment and retention strategies at the high school level. Tyler Bloom, Owner of Tyler Bloom Consulting, will discuss opportunities available in the industry that provide training to prepare individuals to enter the sports field management profession. Questions from the audience will be encouraged during the conversation.

Can’t make it in person? The General Session will be a live broadcast for you to view from work or home.  Stayed tuned for more information on how to access so you don’t miss this important discussion.