The MiGCSA Equipment Manager Committee hosted the second Annual Equipment Managers conference, at Grand Traverse Resort in Traverse City Michigan on December 2nd & 3rd.
This event was again a great opportunity for attendees’ with education & networking opportunities. On day one Mike Rollins, SIP Grinders and John Patterson, Equipment Manager at Atlanta Athletic Club wowed all in attendance while presenting at our committees own Mitch Hunt, CTEM shop at Traverse City Country Club, and we were ready to learn.
The “Cut Line is King” seminar inspired many and opened a few eyes to new practices. Hector Velazquez, Hector's Shop & a new EM Committee Member taught his highly requested soldering class and provided great insight and instruction on an art that we all need but tend to dismiss in our busy schedules today.
At the conclusion of education, attendees were invited to the sponsor reception and vendor show. Special thanks to master of ceremonies Shane Conroy, GCSAA Great Lakes Field Staff who lead the evening of great networking, incredible food & raffle prizes from our sponsors and Industry Partners.
Red Run G.C. Equipment Manager Austin Lavoie, CTEM was recognised by Shane Conroy, for completing his Certified Turf Equipment Manager designation with the GCSAA.
Seth Sheldon, another EM Committee Member, was honored with a surprise lifetime achievement award presented by MiGCSA Board member Ross Miller, CGCS for all he has done for Equipment Managers in the industry.
William Brantley, recently retired EM at The Emerald in St. Johns earned the first ever Equipment Manager of the Year award. The unofficial part of the event then headed out to the restaurants, casino & sports bars for the meetings after the meeting.
Day two came with a spectacular sunrise full hot breakfast buffet and education on the 17th floor. Zach Nicoludis, USGA & Seth Sheldon spoke about the intersection of agronomic practices & the Equipment Manager.
Kevin Hennigar, the Equipment Manager at Angus Glen Golf Club followed up with a hands on demonstration of electrical & hydraulic diagnostics.
Thank you, Mitch for the use of your shop and the great lunch prepared by the team at T.C.C.C. and our host Superintendent & GCSAA Board Member Steve Hammon, CGCS.
Thank you to all our Industry Partners and event sponsors, without them we would not be able to host events like this especially at such a low cost.
Mike Rollins, John Patterson & Steve Hammon, CGCS
The immaculate shop at Traverse City C.C. & Hector Velazquez's soldering class in the back
Mitch Hunt, CTEM, Austin LaVoie, CTEM & Shane Conroy, GCSAA
Shane Conroy, GCSAA, Mitch Hunt, CTEM, 2024 Equipment Manager of the Year William Brantley with Katie Eccleton & Jay Eccleton, CGCS from The Emerald G.C.
Ross Miller, CGCS, Seth Sheldon & Mitch Hunt, CTEM
The day two breakfast at the high horsepower table
Zach Nicoludis & Seth Sheldon
The amazing food and hospitality of Grand Traverse Resort on full display for the reception