Meet previous graduates
Class of 2023 graduates Craig Swindells, Michael Sparke and Jack Wellings
BIGGA and its Premium Partner Jacobsen recognise the importance of preparing greenkeepers to take on the role of head greenkeeper or course manager. The Future Turf Managers Initiative (FTMI) has been designed to provide practical tools and guidance, to help candidates to pursue their career aspirations.
Working with professional trainers, mentors, BIGGA and Jacobsen staff, candidates leave FTMI with a clear understanding of what the future holds and a realistic overview of the expectations that come with a management role.
FTMI begins at Ransomes Jacobsen's headquarters in Ipswich and is followed by a series of online education sessions before culminating in two days of education at BTME in January 2025.
We feel hugely proud of the 20 guys and girls each year who go through the FTMI programme because we know they’ve gone on a journey. They have to work hard and invest in themselves. They lean on their mentors and their own employers, but we know when they come out of it that they have a chance to move on in their careers.
CEO, BIGGA
This intensive training programme covers:
- Presentation Skills
- Communications
- Presenting a Professional Image
- Interview Techniques
- Successful CV’s
- Stress Awareness
- Building a Budget
- Becoming a Leader
Who’s it for?
This event is aimed at up and coming greenkeepers who want to make the leap to Course Manager. Focusing on personal and professional development, rather than agronomy based subjects, the FTMI programme utilises the expertise of leading Course Managers, dynamic trainers and industry experts, to mentor and educate the next generation of industry leaders.
International BIGGA members may apply, but should note that they will be expected to meet their own travel expenses.
When is it taking place?
The FTMI programme is a hybrid event, combining in-person and online training. Before applying, please make sure that you are able to attend the dates specified:
In-person: Jacobsen HQ, Ipswich 25 - 26 September 2024
On-line: October, November and December - dates to be confirmed, it is anticipated that there will be three online sessions per month
In-person: 20 - 22 January 2025 - Harrogate Convention Centre
Jacobsen will cover all accommodation costs for both in-person events and will contribute towards travel expenses.
What are the judges looking for?
The ideal candidate will show initiative, dedication to greenkeeping, a genuine interest in the industry and be actively involved in education at both a regional and national level. They will have worked as a greenkeeper for a minimum of three years and will hold their Level 2 qualification. A nominator will be required to validate each application.
Please note, FTMI is open to BIGGA members who are not yet Course Managers or Head Greenkeepers, but aim to progress to this level and beyond.
If multiple applications are received from the same golf club, only one applicant will be considered for selection.
The course has been priceless and will benefit me so much moving forward in my career
First Assistant, Orsett Golf Club
Thanks for the opportunity to be a part of something special
Deputy Head Greenkeeper, Erskine Golf Club
Thank you to everyone for everything. It was an amazing learning experience and one that I can not recommend highly enough
Deputy Head Greenkeeper, Burghley Park Golf Club
It was a proper eye opener for me heading into management and I learned some absolutely invaluable things that will stay with me for the remainder of my career
Deputy Head Greenkeeper, Prestonfield Golf Club
