For many professionals in the turfgrass industry, career advancement can feel uncertain without the right credentials and knowledge.

Kirk Myrold found himself at this crossroads. He was working as a groundskeeper at a prestigious golf course, but he knew he needed more to advance in his career.

Meet Kirk: A Dedicated Groundskeeper with Ambition

Kirk had been working at The Country Club at St. Albans in Missouri, and had his eyes on future opportunities.

After discussing his career goals with his superintendent, it became clear that additional training could help him move up.

“I wanted to work my way up in the profession,” Kirk explains. “After some research, I found Oregon State University’s Turfgrass Management program, and it seemed like the perfect fit.”

The Path to Advancement: Enrolling in OSU’s Turfgrass Management Program

Before enrolling in the program, Kirk had a strong work ethic and hands-on experience, but there were gaps in his knowledge—especially in the science behind turf management.

“I had limited knowledge,” Kirk admits. “The scientific terminology, like surfactants and fertilizers, was familiar, but I didn’t fully understand the reasons behind their use.”

The OSU Turfgrass Management program provided him with the answers.

It connected the dots between the practical work he was doing on the course and the scientific principles that supported it.

“The program helped me understand the ‘why’ behind what we do,” he says.

Kirk’s hard work paid off. Shortly after completing the Turfgrass Management Program, he was promoted to Assistant Superintendent at St. Albans.

A Promotion and Greater Confidence in His Role

The skills he gained in the program gave him the confidence to handle more responsibilities and further contribute to the golf course’s operations.

“I had a better understanding of what we were doing with fertilizers, pesticides, and the equipment,” Kirk shares. “It was easier to connect my day-to-day work to the broader goals of the course.”

One area that stood out to Kirk was irrigation management.

After taking the irrigation course, he gained the skills to not only understand the system but also fix issues himself.

“Before, I was the guy who dug the hole while someone else handled the system,” he recalls. “Now, I have the confidence to do it myself.”

The Flexibility to Balance Work and Learning

One of the aspects Kirk appreciated most about the program was its flexibility.

With a busy work schedule at the golf course and personal commitments, being able to complete coursework at his own pace was essential.

“I could plan ahead and do the work when I had the time,” Kirk explains. “It allowed me to continue working while still making progress in the program.”

The program’s online format also provided Kirk with access to instructors and fellow students, which enhanced his learning experience. “The forums and email communication with instructors were extremely helpful,” he says.

“It was comforting to know that even though I was working independently, I wasn’t alone.”

Ready to Advance in Your Turfgrass Career?

Kirk’s story is a testament to how the OSU Turfgrass Management Program can help professionals in the industry not only gain valuable knowledge but also advance their careers.

Whether you’re looking to move up in your current role or expand your understanding of turfgrass science, this flexible program offers the tools, connections, and expertise you need to succeed.

“The program gave me the confidence and skills to step into a leadership role,” Kirk says. “I highly recommend it to anyone in the industry.”

Are you ready to grow your career in turfgrass management?

Learn more about the OSU Turfgrass Management program and take the next step today!