Page 16 - GBC ENG fall 2021

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Golf Business Canada
Morgan Creighton
Assistant Superintendent, Woodside Golf Course, AB
I think that one of the biggest hurdles that most women face in this industry is the presumption that we cannot do the same type of manual labour, therefore getting overlooked for certain opportunities or learning experiences. I believe that it is even more drastic if that person has children. I believe that, as a woman, I must work 10% harder than an equal male counterpart to be taken roughly as seriously.
I was lucky enough to be one of 50 women chosen to attend Bayer’s inaugural “Women in Golf” event in 2019. This event was amazing for many reasons, but the three main takeaways that I had were the connections I made, the realization that I do BELONG, and the drive to work on being a part of the change we are seeing.
I am very proud to have created “Women in Turfgrass Management” (WITM) and the mentorship program it facilitates for women coming into this industry. WITM hosted its first conference in February of 2021 that had 96 people virtually attend from 3 different continents.
This movement is about developing support systems for women that previously were not available. It is bringing the inequalities to the forefront of some conversations and making those who are a little behind the times stand out.
My advice to other women interested in beginning their career in the golf industry is that it’s not going to be easy, but put your head down, deliver a good product, and show that you are capable. Be willing to put in the time, and this industry is worth it!
Sheryle Rowland
General Manager/COO, Silver Springs Golf and Country Club, AB
One of the biggest challenges women experience in the golf industry is finding balance. I continually take stock of priorities month to month and try my best to focus on those. It is critical to hire good people and set up a team that buys into you and the club’s vision.
Being a minority in the industry leads to a lack of relatable role models. This can leave a person feeling isolated or missing that lack of connection and without that it is hard to get the support that is required.
Throughout my career, I have entered positions and have been paid less than the previous male in the same position. Learning from this, I would suggest others try and educate themselves on salary comparisons and promote themselves.
To help overcome inappropriate behaviour or comments in the workplace, I think it is important to have policies around member and employee conduct and respect. This helps protect all females from inappropriate behaviour or harassment and provides an avenue to voice a complaint and be heard/supported.
In my position, there is a continual change in board members, and right or wrong, I have felt the need to prove myself over and over. The feeling of having to work hard and prove myself is a feeling I have had my entire career.
Receiving my first Head Professional position was a great moment from me. To then maintain the role and improve each year as a golf professional and person, and ultimately become General Manager at a Club I love, all equates to my proudest achievements.