I would like to start this off by thanking Dann Husmann for asking me to write this update. I am honored to share my story with you. Dann has done a phenomenal job of taking over the PGM program and I’m excited about the direction he’s going to help lead it in the near future.
If you asked me in January of 2012 where I’d be in one year I would have answered, “I’m planning on being right here in Wichita.” Let me summarize what happened. I accepted the 1st Assistant position at The Kansas City Country Club and started in February, we had our first daughter in May, and in December I accepted the position to become the Director of Golf at the Country Club of Lincoln (CCL).
In less than (11) months my wife and I had (7) jobs, lived in (2) rental properties, owned (3) homes and had a child. Crazy! It taught me you have to be ready and open to the opportunities in our business even if the timing is less than ideal. You have to continue to work hard every day knowing any day could bring a bigger opportunity.
I was elected to membership by the PGA of America and received my UNL PGM degree in 2007. I furthered my education and became a PGA Certified Professional in 2008. I began my career at Dakota Dunes Country Club in 2006. In 2008 I had a wonderful opportunity to move to Wichita and work at Wichita Country Club under Cary Cozby. As I mentioned earlier, I then had the privilege of moving to the Kansas City Country Club under Andy Fisher in 2012. Both Cary’s and Andy’s track records are among the best in our industry and are nationally recognized year after year. Their philosophies and best practices have helped mold me into the Professional I am today and I am grateful to them for that.
As a result, in my last three seasons CCL has been recognized nationally as an AGM Platinum Golf Shop, recipient of the national Cashman Award along with Merchandiser of the Year in the Nebraska PGA Section.
My wife Niki and I have two young daughters, Alyvia and Brooklyn. Niki is Director of Compensation in HR (and a CPA) with Ameritas. My last bit of advice is the most important. With my wife and I both having high demanding jobs and a busy household, it’s important to remember that family comes first and to leave your job at the door. That doesn’t mean there won’t be difficult times working those 80 hour weeks;) Good luck to all of you and please reach out to me if you need anything.
More details at: http://go.unl.edu/gx6c