New York State Turfgrass Association launches Registered Apprenticeship Program

The New York State Turfgrass Association’s Registered Apprenticeship Program has been approved by the New York State Department of Labor, following a thorough review on May 9, 2023. There are two programs designed to help train future groundskeepers and equipment technicians.

The NYSTA’s newest workforce initiative is a Registered Apprenticeship Program for golf courses, sports turf and equipment technicians in New York. The program is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway designed to help employers develop and prepare their future workforce while providing individuals with paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a nationally recognized credential.

"We're excited to launch this new initiative which offers a unique opportunity for golf courses, sports turf and turf businesses to develop their workforce while providing individuals a pathway to careers in the turf industry with nationally recognized credentials,” the NYSTA board said in a statement.

The NYSTA Registered Apprenticeship Program will offer a structured training program that combines on-the-job learning with online classroom instruction over a two-year time frame. The program allows individuals to develop the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the turfgrass industry, while also providing employers with a means to develop, promote and retain their workforce.

Upon completion of the groundskeeper program, apprentices will have earned 20 credit hours toward an associate’s degree in turfgrass management from SUNY-Delhi and over 4,000 hours of paid on the job training. They will receive an official certificate from the New York Department of Labor acknowledging their expertise in turf management.

The equipment technician program will provide fundamental training in diagnostic, troubleshooting to equipment safety, repair, engine service, metalwork, and fabrication. Upon completion, individuals will earn industry credentials from the New York Department of Labor, and an Automotive Service Excellence Certification.

Tyler Bloom is the NYSTA's Apprenticeship Program administrator.