022 I Innovation from the Shores of Ireland to Rehoboth Beach Country Club with Alan FitzGerald

In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we explore the inspiring career journey of Alan FitzGerald, a golf course superintendent whose path has taken him from the emerald shores of Ireland to some of the world’s top golf courses. Alan shares his experiences growing up around golf courses, his early career at Mount Juliet resort, and his education at Penn State and Loch Lomond. His six-year tenure at Pine Valley and 19 years at Ledgerock prepared him for his current role at Rehoboth Beach Country Club, where he continues to innovate and lead in the field of golf course management. Continuing Education and Innovation Alan’s commitment to lifelong learning has been a cornerstone of his success. Earning his Master Greenkeeper certification stands as a key milestone in his career, symbolizing not just his expertise but his dedication to staying ahead in an ever-evolving industry. This pursuit of excellence has driven him to embrace new tools and techniques that continually push the boundaries of golf course management. One standout example is his early adoption of drone spraying technology. Recognizing the potential of drones, Alan integrated this cutting-edge tool to enhance precision and efficiency in maintaining course conditions. By leveraging technology to streamline operations, he has set a new standard for innovation in the industry. Beyond specific tools, Alan emphasizes the importance of staying on top of industry trends. Whether implementing the latest agronomic techniques or exploring new methods for sustainable course management, his proactive approach ensures that he and his team remain leaders in their field. Innovative Staffing Solutions A forward thinker in staffing as well, Alan has found creative ways to address labor challenges while maintaining high standards on the course. His use of the H2B visa program has allowed him to bring in skilled international workers during peak seasons, a strategy that ensures quality and consistency in course management. At the same time, he has also tapped into the experience of retired staff, whose mentorship and practical knowledge have proven invaluable to his team’s success. Alan doesn’t just rely on conventional methods to recruit and train staff. He is also a strong advocate of the First Green program, an initiative by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), which provides students with hands-on learning opportunities in environmental stewardship and golf course management. Through this program, Alan inspires the next generation of golf course professionals, while strengthening ties between the golf community and the public. Industry Engagement and Community Impact Alan’s involvement with The First Green program exemplifies his broader vision for the industry. By integrating students into the operations of his course, he fosters a deeper understanding of the environmental practices and career opportunities within golf course management. The program not only serves as a valuable educational tool, but also enhances public relations, showing how golf courses contribute positively to the community. By engaging with the next generation of professionals and creating these meaningful connections, Alan helps bridge the gap between golf course operations and the broader community. His work in this area positions golf courses as community assets, showcasing their role in environmental stewardship and local engagement. Alan FitzGerald’s career is a testament to the power of innovation, education, and community engagement. His dedication to adopting new technologies, developing sustainable staffing solutions, and inspiring the next generation continues to set him apart in the industry. As he moves forward in his role at Rehoboth Beach Country Club, Alan’s forward-thinking approach ensures that he will remain a leader in golf course management for years to come. Soundbytes: "I think that was part of it, but it was a bit deflating for a while. Over the last 18 months, I applied for several jobs that I thought I could interview for, but I didn’t get any." 17:07-18:00 “On the flip side, I was pleasantly surprised by a few things. For example, at LedgeRock, where I built everything from scratch, I thought implementing agronomic practices would be much harder. But, to my surprise, it's been going well so far.” 25:23-25:30 Quotes: "I think the interviews before I've tried to say the right things or do the right things, and I really wasn't myself. In this process, I was myself and in doing that, I took the pressure off myself somewhat." "I think it's great to see younger kids getting excited about the First Green program. However, engaging teenagers has been more challenging than I expected. To keep them interested, it needs to be more than just educational; it must also be challenging and engaging."  "Although our total payroll is close to 40, we only have around 25 staff members here each day. The flexibility in scheduling has been excellent, with up to 16 to 18 people working on weekend mornings. Overall, the setup has worked really well for us." “Leaving a long-term, comfortable position can be challenging, but exploring new opportunities can lead to personal and professional growth.” “Continuously pursuing education and adopting new technologies can help you stay ahead of the curve and improve efficiency.” Links Mentioned in This Episode: Tyler Bloom Consulting: https://tylerbloomconsulting.com/ The First Green - https://www.thefirstgreen.org/ Connect with Alan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alangfitzgerald/