Page 27 - GreenMaster Winter 2025

Port Royal’s Turf Management Team work in unison to produce exceptional
playing conditions for this world-class golf destination.
component of Jackson’s message proved especially relevant, as
the turf industry often relies on professional relationships and
referrals for career advancement.
THE VALUE OF INDUSTRY CONNECTION
The SIR program serves multiple purposes beyond education.
Industry professionals like Jackson provide valuable feedback on
curriculum content, ensuring academic programs remain relevant
to current industry needs. The public lecture component also
strengthens connections between the university and local turf
professionals, creating opportunities for collaboration and
knowledge exchange. The SIR program offers something textbooks
cannot: real-world perspective from someone who has successfully
navigated the challenges they will soon face. Jackson’s story of
adapting his Canadian education to tropical conditions provides
both inspiration and practical guidance for students entering an
increasingly global profession.
The program’s success lies in its recognition that effective turf
management education requires more than technical knowledge. It
demands understanding of team dynamics, career development,
and the ability to adapt to diverse environments and challenges.
Through initiatives like the Superintendent in Residence program,
the University of Guelph continues to prepare students not just for
their first jobs, but for careers that may span continents and decades.
GM
Anyone interested in following Jackson’s journey or connecting
with him professionally can find him on Twitter/X at @jjacksonbda,
where he continues to share insights from his ongoing work.
For more information, visit www.TurfSymposium.ca.
Get connected with the Guelph Turfgrass Institute by signing
up to the newsletter at www.GuelphTurfgrass.ca or connecting
on social media @GuelphTurf.
GreenMaster • CGSA •
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