SUNY Delhi Hosts First Cohort of Golf Apprentices

SUNY Delhi recently hosted the inaugural cohort of the New York State Turfgrass Association (NYSTA) Golf Apprenticeship program, a unique workforce development initiative designed to advance careers in golf course and athletic field management. Seven apprentices from across New York State participated in a weeklong intensive study portion of the program at SUNY Delhi’s Turf Education Center, adding a hands-on learning segment to online coursework.

The program, a partnership between SUNY Delhi, NYSTA, and the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL), allows participants to continue their full-time employment in groundskeeping and golf course maintenance while earning college credits and working towards a certificate from NYSDOL after two years.

As the only college in New York with a comprehensive turfgrass management program, SUNY Delhi is the instructional partner for the program. Following a curriculum similar to Delhi’s campus-based golf and turf programs, the college credits earned through the program can act as a pathway to a college degree.

“The apprentices in this program come from all corners of New York State,” says Professor Ben Czyzewski, one of the instructors. “Many of them got started in their jobs without knowing that you can make a career in golf course management, athletic field management, or lawn care. This program offers the formal education they need to further their careers. It’s been great to see how motivated and committed the apprentices are.”

With financial support from the State University of New York (SUNY) and NYSDOL, the program is offered to apprentices at no cost. Employers work with NYSTA to select apprentices from their current workforce and commit to a wage progression requirement that offers their apprentices incremental salary increases as they successfully master their trade. Employers may be eligible for government tax credits.

“This innovative program exemplifies SUNY Delhi’s commitment to workforce development and industry partnerships,” said SUNY Delhi President Mary Bonderoff. “By providing hands-on education and career advancement opportunities, we are not only strengthening the turfgrass industry but also creating pathways for hardworking professionals to achieve their full potential.”

The apprenticeship is the first of its kind in the country and a model for future apprenticeships in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and culinary trades.

Golf and sports turf programs at SUNY Delhi:
Golf and Sports Turf Management (AAS)
Golf Course Management (BBA)