Being a superintendent offers a wealth of rewards, from working outdoors in nature to being part of a team and serving as a dedicated custodian of the environment. But how can we effectively promote these benefits to inspire young people to consider a career in the industry?
Sandy Reid, Director of Greenkeeping at St Andrew Links Trust, joins host Gary Firkins on the latest episode of the Changing the Business of Golf Podcast. With over three decades in the industry, Sandy has played a pivotal role in managing four Open Championships, including the historical 150th edition at St Andrews.
In this episode, Sandy reveals how the Home of Golf is leading the way in sustainable practices, including their new 2025 Sustainability Strategy that aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
They discuss initiatives aimed at addressing the industry’s pressing labor challenges by attracting young people to the greenkeeping profession, such as industry apprenticeships and the GCSAA’s First Green project, supported by BIGGA, which organizes trips for local school children to visit the golf course.
Sandy also shares valuable insights into the automation technology his team has embraced across their seven courses, providing practical advice on how greenkeepers with limited budgets can implement innovative solutions to improve turf performance.
Throughout the episode, Sandy highlights the three key changes that he believes will help golf build a sustainable future:
- Attracting young talent: Working with schools and utilising apprenticeship programs to inspire the next generation of superintendents.
- Embracing innovation and automation: How golf course businesses of all sizes can follow in the footsteps of the Home of Golf and embrace innovation.
- Commitment to sustainability: Why the industry needs to ‘think big’ with sustainability.
Watch or Listen to the episode today:
Listen on Spotify: Building a Sustainable Future for Golf with Sandy Reid
Listen on Apple Music: Building a Sustainable Future for Golf with Sandy Reid
Follow our guest:
Connect with Sandy Reid on LinkedIn
Useful Links:
Changing the Business of Golf Podcast
St Andrews Links Trust 2025 Sustainability Strategy
Market Research: "Golf & Social Media: Sustainability"
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