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This inventive program trains greenskeepers. One grad says it’s life-changing

This inventive program trains greenskeepers. And one grad of the USGA’s Greenskeeper Apprenticeship Program says it’s life-changing.

By Dylan Dethier · Golf

Published: Friday, 2 October 2026 at 8:05 PM

Key Things to Know

The USGA's Greenskeeper Apprenticeship Program trains turf professionals, with graduate DJ McClellan calling it life-changing.
DJ McClellan became the first graduate of the program to be hired as a golf course superintendent.
McClellan now works as the superintendent at Pinewild Country Club in Pinehurst, North Carolina.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The USGA's Greenskeeper Apprenticeship Program is helping develop golf course maintenance staff, with graduate DJ McClellan calling the initiative life-changing. McClellan transitioned from working in a golf shop to completing the program and becoming the first graduate hired as a golf course superintendent, securing a role at Pinewild Country Club in Pinehurst, North Carolina.

Now in its fourth year, the tuition-free program is led by Brett Rusek and guided by USGA senior director Jordan Booth. Apprentices gain hands-on experience working full-time at regional courses while studying at Sandhills Community College or Horry-Georgetown Technical College.

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This inventive program trains greenskeepers. One grad says it’s life-changing

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