Meet David Gummo, CTEM, Equipment Manager at Sands Point Golf Club in Sands Point, New York. Sands Point is a private 18-hole golf and skeet club where David manages a mostly Toro fleet, with a few pieces of John Deere and a lone Jacobsen.
David shares how his journey began at just 14 years old in a vocational high school outdoor power equipment program, eventually becoming part of the inaugural graduating class of Penn State’s Turf and Agricultural Equipment program. Now a father of three-year-old twins and an avid gamer, David talks about the unique challenges he faced after making a major geographic move, and how prioritizing physical fitness and mental health helped him thrive in his new role and in life.
From his appreciation for fabricating and working on Takeuchi equipment to his thoughts on shop organization and managing with limited help in the shop, David brings valuable insight and honesty to the mic
In this episode of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, we sit down with Jim Merritt, founder and CEO of JRM, Inc. Jim’s journey in the turf industry began as a teenager working on golf courses, eventually leading to a successful career as a superintendent in North Carolina. Frustrated with the quality of aerification tines in the early 1990s, he started crafting his own—building a product that lasted longer and performed better. What began as a side project evolved into a partnership with Redexim Holland, paving the way for JRM’s creation.
Jim shares the origins of his innovative approach to bedknives and reels, the importance of listening to customers, and his vision for the future of JRM. He also reflects on his unconventional career path, from his family's accounting tradition to pursuing turfgrass science at the encouragement of a mentor. Join us for a deep dive into the mind of a turf industry innovator, his philosophy on success, and, of course, his two heroes—Jesus and Tarzan.
In Episode 139 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, we sit down with Carl Michael, Equipment Manager at Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, FL. Growing up in the turf industry, Carl's journey began when his family bought a golf course in foreclosure, teaching themselves the business from the ground up. After completing a two-year ag and mechanics program followed by a turfgrass degree at Penn State and working as a superintendent at his family’s course, he eventually transitioned to the equipment side in Florida.
Carl shares the unique challenges of maintaining equipment during the club’s annual one-month closure, the shift in mindset from agronomics to equipment, and the importance of a solid foundation in cutting units. He also reflects on his love for working on the course, spending time at the ball field, and perfecting his skills on the pellet grill. We discuss the importance of exposing young people to the golf course mechanic profession and the rewarding career opportunities it offers. Tune in for a conversation about turf equipment management, industry challenges, and a shared love for the 90-degree ¼-inch Snap-on ratchet!
In Episode 138 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, we’re live from the trade show floor at the 2025 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show in San Diego! This special episode features conversations with three industry pros sharing their experiences, insights, and takeaways from the event.
Justin Wilkerson, a first-time attendee, braved a Wyoming blizzard to make it to sunny SoCal. He discusses the best education sessions he attended, the innovations catching his eye on the trade show floor, and the challenges of implementing cutting-edge technology—like autonomous mowers and agricultural drones—at a remote cattle ranch.
Chris Whittaker, CTEM, shares his thoughts on his favorite class, teaching on the importance of superintendents supporting their equipment managers’ professional growth, and what Canadian EMs do during the winter months.
Tyler Miget makes history as the first equipment manager selected for the prestigious Bernhard Delegation.
Join us for an exciting episode packed with insights on education, technology, and professional development straight from the heart of the industry’s biggest event!
Welcome to Episode 137 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast. Today, we’re talking to Anthony Donofrio, Equipment Manager at Marine Drive Golf Club in Vancouver, BC. Marine Drive is an 18-hole private club where Anthony leads a team consisting of one full-time technician and one part-time grind technician.
The club primarily uses Toro mowers but is introducing new Baroness mowers this year. Their equipment lineup also includes Club Car utility vehicles and Kubota tractors. Anthony's journey in the golf industry began as a summer crew member while studying criminology. Over time, he worked his way up from technician to equipment manager, gaining valuable experience along the way.
In this episode, Anthony discusses the advantages of having a hydraulic press in the shop and how it helps reduce equipment downtime. He also shares the value of regular friendship check-ins to start the weekend on a positive note and tackle weekend projects together. Shop space and setup can present challenges, and Anthony explains how he has adapted to those constraints.
As expectations for quality of cut continue to evolve, Anthony highlights the importance of reel maintenance education, especially for those transitioning into turf equipment management from other careers. He also emphasizes the wealth of opportunities and resources available in the industry and the role that strong mentorship plays in helping technicians grow and succeed.
On this special episode of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, we welcome a true icon in the turf industry, Jim Nedin. With an incredible 62 years of experience, Jim’s journey began at the age of 9, working in a lawnmower shop, and has grown into an extraordinary career filled with innovation, education, and expertise.
From his first golf course job at 12 maintaining golf carts and keeping records on index cards to earning degrees in engineering and business, Jim's story is one of perseverance and passion. His career has spanned roles as a superintendent, a service manager for a Toro distributor, and now, as a consultant and teacher shaping the next generation of turf professionals.
Join us for a fascinating look back at six decades of golf course equipment management, as Jim shares unparalleled insights on cutting unit maintenance, reel design, precision turf management, and the art of staying ahead in a constantly evolving field. This is an episode you won't want to miss!
Let’s get reel with Jim Nedin!
In this episode, we chat with Ron McCall, Equipment Manager at The Highlands at Harbor Springs Resort, home to 81 holes of golf. With over 40 years in the industry, Ron shares his inspiring journey from owning a lawn care company to becoming a self-taught expert technician and advocate for veterans in golf.
Ron recounts how a health setback led him to start walking greens as a groundskeeper, sparking his fascination with equipment maintenance after a bedknife revelation. A United States Air Force veteran, Ron emphasizes the value of camaraderie, proactive communication, and fostering a welcoming shop atmosphere.
We also explore:
The transition from superintendent and irrigation tech back to the shop.
The benefits of playing golf to understand its impact on the course.
Building a strong network of superintendents, equipment managers, and distributors in Michigan.
The importance of record-keeping and relationship-building.
Advocacy for turf technician education and veteran employment through Ron’s initiative, hireavet4golf.org.
Ron’s story is a testament to his passion for learning and the power of connection in the turf industry. Tune in to be inspired!
Welcome to the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, Episode 134! Today, we’re chatting with Zach Spence, Equipment Manager at The Landings Golf and Athletic Club in Savannah, GA. The Landings features six championship courses, and Zach oversees equipment for the Palmetto and Terrapin Point layouts.
Zach shares his journey from tinkering in Florida to managing a fleet in Georgia, where he’s transitioning from aged Toro equipment to a new John Deere lease. Tune in as we discuss the value of schematics for all techs, the crucial role of safety switches (never bypass them!), and why taking your time is key to success in this field.
Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!
In this episode, we chat with Alex Tessman, Equipment Manager at Sheep Ranch Golf Course, part of the renowned Bandon Dunes Resort in Bandon, OR. Sheep Ranch is a public 18-hole championship course, and Alex is one of nine techs maintaining the resort’s seven courses.
Alex’s journey started as a high schooler raking bunkers at Pacific Dunes before transitioning to the technician side. He shares insights into advancements in cutting unit technology and his unique hobbies, including working with carnivorous plants and creating custom CNC projects for the course.
Alex also reflects on his first experience at the GCSAA Conference & Trade Show in Phoenix, highlighting the growth of equipment manager classes and the exciting opportunities ahead for San Diego 2025. Tune in for a deep dive into continuing education, EM networking, and the passion that drives success in the turf industry.
Join Chad Kintzer, Justin King, Jake Teeter, Bryan Epland, CTEM, Moe Rateb, and host Trent Manning as they recap the highlights of the 2024 Carolinas Conference and Tradeshow and TETAC annual education events. From the latest equipment advancements to top-notch education sessions, our guests share their takeaways, including insights on autonomous and remote-control mowing technology.
Learn how CTEM attesting prep can help your facility get ready for a voluntary OSHA mock inspection. Hear why regional shows like Myrtle Beach’s Carolinas Conference are a must-attend for networking, learning, and reconnecting with your newest old friends.
Get inspired to make the trip to a local, regional or national event for education, camaraderie, and fun!
In this episode of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, we chat with Ben Herberger, Equipment Manager at Shooting Star Golf Club in Teton Village, WY. Ben, the lone technician overseeing a fleet of Toro equipment, shares his journey and valuable insights from his career.
Hailing from a family deeply connected to golf course maintenance—his great-grandfather was a superintendent—Ben grew up immersed in the industry. He first learned to turn wrenches at 18 while fixing his motorcycle, a skill that eventually led him to a role as a Toro distributor tech before moving to Central Oregon and later Jackson Hole.
Ben and Trent explore how the superintendent’s approach and leadership style can profoundly shape an equipment manager’s day-to-day experience. They discuss the relational aspects of the job, the importance of fostering a positive work environment, and the introspection needed to determine the “price” of happiness at work—how to cultivate it and when to consider moving on. Ben also reflects on the satisfaction of mentoring the next generation of technicians and the joy it brings.
Away from the shop, Ben embraces life as a dad to a two-year-old, enjoys fly fishing, running, and working on his hot rod Ford. Join us for an engaging and thoughtful conversation about finding balance and purpose in the turf industry!
Welcome to Episode 130 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast!
Today, we’re joined by Micah Woods from the Asian Turfgrass Center and PACE Turf. Since establishing the Asian Turfgrass Center in 2006, Micah has been a leading source of turfgrass research and insights for the golf and sports turf industry.
In this episode, Trent and Micah discuss how technology—especially autonomous tech—could be a game-changer for attracting new talent to the field and elevating operator training. Micah dives into the science behind clipping yield and clipping volume, sharing why it’s crucial to understand these metrics and how his own interest in the topic developed. The conversation also covers the evolution of Micah’s teachings on sand and organic matter, emphasizing the importance of using all available resources and testing. They talk shop on cutting unit setup, the significance of accurate terminology, and why a well-equipped workspace is essential for meeting club standards.
Micah even turns the tables, asking Trent about the daily realities of maintaining equipment on the course. Tune in for a fresh perspective on turfgrass management, science, and the practicalities of course upkeep!
In Episode 129 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Deering to hear about his journey into the turf industry. Ryan shares his roots in small engine repair, learning the trade while working with his grandfather in their family-owned equipment shop, where no two days were ever the same—whether fixing hovercrafts or steamrollers. Ryan discusses his time at Home Depot, climbing the corporate ladder, and developing valuable management skills, before making the leap into the golf industry. Ryan recounts the humorous yet humbling moment during his first interview at a golf course when he unintentionally insulted the superintendent by complimenting the "camouflage" look of the fairways. Tune in for a story filled with hands-on mechanical knowledge, career pivots, and Ryan's unique perspective on the world of turf maintenance.
In this episode of Reel Turf Techs, we sit down with Kevin Kline, an equipment manager who has had quite the journey into the turf industry. Kevin shares how he started in the turf program at Ohio State University ATI, but his path took a detour as he ventured into electrical work and later became the director of facilities at a community college in Ohio. Years later, an unexpected job ad led him back to the golf course, where he now manages over 300 pieces of equipment at a private 38-hole facility.
Kevin discusses his love for golf, averaging 110-150 rounds a year, and how that passion for the game ultimately guided him back to the golf industry. He also highlights his goal to connect with members through weekly rounds and a league he set up for the Green staff. Tune in to hear Kevin’s unique journey, his thoughts on balancing work with his passion for golf, and how he brings his experience from multiple industries into his current role.
Welcome to Episode 127 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast! Today, we’re chatting with John Michael Clark, Equipment Manager at Frenchman’s Creek Beach and Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens, FL—though, at the time of recording, he was at McLemore Golf Club in Georgia.
Join Trent and John Michael as they dive into everything but college football! John Michael shares how he stumbled into turf management, earning a degree from Mississippi State and transitioning from checking reels to running the shop full-time. They explore the challenges of training a crew from scratch, the year-round demands of Florida’s golf industry, the power of intentional communication, and the precision of a granite plate. Plus, they touch on the unique trials of managing a mountain course, like fog and rocks. Don’t miss this insightful episode as we anticipate John Michael’s next exciting chapter.
Welcome to Episode 126 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast! This week, we're honored to chat with Jerry Goman, Senior Principal Design Engineer at The Toro Company, who recently retired after an impressive 39-year career. Jerry's journey began on a dairy farm, leading to dual degrees in agricultural and mechanical engineering, and ultimately to a pivotal role at Toro. Over the years, Jerry worked on numerous product lines, with a significant focus on greens mowers. In this episode, we dive deep into the design and engineering of cutting units, exploring topics like rifling, blade pass frequency, the development of DPA and EdgeSeries reels, bedknives, and more. If you're into the technical details of turfgrass equipment, this episode is a must-listen! Don't miss out on this insightful conversation with one of the industry's greats.
Welcome to the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, Episode 125! Today, we’re chatting with Robert Smith, Equipment Manager at Merion Golf Club in Ardmore, PA. Merion is a private 36-hole facility with two shops and a rich history of hosting five U.S. Opens. Robert oversees a team of two full-time mechanics and one part-time assistant.
Golf runs deep in Robert's family, with a father who worked as a part-time golf cart mechanic and a mother employed in the pro shop of their local course. Uniquely, Robert knew he wanted to be a golf course mechanic as a teenager and pursued a combined ag/golf program to make it his career. Outside of work, Robert enjoys quality time with his wife and two daughters, fishing, and quiet time at home.
In this episode, Robert shares the challenges of training in all aspects of golf course maintenance, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individual learning styles. He offers wisdom on the value of patience and the usefulness of note-taking when diagnosing equipment issues along with insight on the internship program at his facility. Robert and Trent also bond over their admiration for outdoorsman Dick Proenneke and the fun of volunteering at tournaments. Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with practical advice and shared passions.
Welcome to the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, Episode 124!
Today, we’re joined by Paul MacCormack, Golf Course Superintendent and General Manager at Fox Meadow Golf Course on Prince Edward Island, Canada. Fox Meadow, a public 18-hole course designed by Rob Heaslip, is where Paul, also known as the Mindful Superintendent, has been blogging for 12 years on TurfNet, promoting mindfulness in golf course maintenance. As a certified mindfulness meditation teacher and international speaker, Paul brings invaluable insights to our discussion.
Returning to the podcast is Wyatt Harris, equipment technician at the Four Seasons Golf and Sport Club in Orlando, Florida. Wyatt, a self-described Florida Man and OCD lawnmower mechanic, first appeared on Episode 23 and in a bonus episode in our Mental Health Series. With his background as the son of a golf course superintendent and a year of daily meditation practice, Wyatt shares how mindfulness meditation has improved his mental health, work efficiency, and family life.
In this episode, Trent, Paul, and Wyatt dive deep into the benefits of mindfulness meditation and debunk myths, including the idea that meditation conflicts with religious practices. They cover essential concepts like self-awareness, interconnectedness, and observing patterns without judgment. The discussion highlights how these practices reduce suffering, enhance leadership, and improve our ability to care for others and ourselves.
Trent shares his own aha moments from ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) meetings, illustrating the power of realizing that our thoughts do not define us. This awareness helps reduce reactivity and gives us the space to respond thoughtfully. They also explore the practical benefits of taking more pauses in a busy day and understanding that our roles in life do not define who we are.
Tune in for an enlightening conversation on mindfulness, leadership, and the transformative power of meditation in both personal and professional life.
Welcome to Episode 123 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast! Today we’re talking to Haas Mengloi, CTEM, Equipment Manager at The Bear’s Club in Jupiter, FL. The Bear’s Club, a private 18-hole club, is Jack Nicklaus’s home club when he's in Jupiter.
Young Haas initially planned on being a school teacher, attending the University of Guam before moving to Florida and earning certificates as a marine mechanic. Haas found his new home and a long and successful career at the golf course. When not at work, Haas is an avid hunter and fisherman.
In this episode, Haas shares the value of patience, humor, and letting things go in training technicians, and emphasizes the importance of doing things right the first time. We have a great discussion about how book smarts aren't the only type of intelligence that matters in the world. Haas also stresses the importance of taking care of your hearing from day one.
Haas recounts his story of cold-calling area superintendents to start an equipment technician association in Palm Beach County and highlights the importance of local networking for support systems and salary awareness.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation with Haas on this episode of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast!
Welcome to the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, Episode 120! Today, we’re talking to Sam Baldea, Equipment Manager at TPC San Antonio in San Antonio, TX. TPC San Antonio is a private 36-hole facility, hosting the Valero Texas Open on the Oaks course and supporting Champions and Korn Ferry Tour events on the Canyons course.
Sam leads a team of two Equipment Technicians and a Preventative Maintenance Technician, primarily using John Deere equipment. Coming from a mechanical family, Sam initially pursued a career as a brick mason before receiving an offer to work with landscape equipment. What started as a “temporary” job at a golf course in Virginia turned into an outstanding career in turf management.
With a love for golf and the support of his resume coach (his wife!), Sam joined TPC Potomac before moving to TPC San Antonio. He was quickly impressed by the friendly community and excellent food in Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Sam provides an inside look at tournament preparation for the Valero Texas Open, emphasizes the importance of accurate gauges, and highlights the value of tournament volunteering.
Welcome to Episode 121 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast! Today we’re chatting with Jody Farber, West Coast Regional Territory Manager for the Foley Company. Jody supports Foley grinders and Air2G2 aerifiers, bringing a wealth of real-world experience to the table.
Jody's journey began with an enjoyment of golf in high school, leading him to Lake City Community College on a friend's recommendation. Loving the outdoors and hands-on work, Jody started his career as a new equipment setup technician for a Toro dealer.
Join Trent and Jody as they delve into the world of grinders, the intricacies of mastering electrical systems, and the challenges of member feedback. Jody shares his secret hack for making golf more relaxing and the value of different perspectives in the industry.
The conversation goes deep into cutting units, the significance of repetition in training, and even an unexpected detour into…jerky? Tune in for an engaging episode filled with insights, tips, and a bit of fun!
Welcome to Episode 120 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast! Join us for an episode of Frankly Speaking, as host Frank Rossi, Ph.D. sits down with our own Trent Manning, (CTEM), to discuss the intricacies and evolution of turf equipment management.
The conversation spans the role of technology in turf management, effective communication, and professional development opportunities for young people entering the field.
Listen in as Trent and Frank explore the dynamics between equipment managers and superintendents, tackle the challenges posed by rapidly advancing technology, and break down the critical aspects of reel theory and bed knife attitudes. They also discuss the implications of market consolidation among turf equipment manufacturers and its impact on innovation and costs.
Don't miss this enlightening conversation hosted by industry legend Frank Rossi.
Welcome to Episode 119 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast! 🎙️ Today, we're chatting with Terry Appel, Equipment Manager at Overbrook Golf Club in Villanova, PA. Founded in 1900, Overbrook Golf Club boasts a rich history as an 18-hole private club.
Typically accompanied by one assistant in the shop (though currently on the lookout for a new addition), Terry primarily manages a fleet consisting of John Deere equipment with a sprinkle of Toro.
Terry's journey into the turf management world began at the tender age of four, where he learned early lessons about where to draw on the golf course (not the carts!). From placing scorecards and pencils to navigating the maintenance crew, Terry's passion for golf and mechanics eventually led him to SUNY Delhi for his bachelor’s degree and a start down the superintendent track. With experience in golf course construction and renovation, including projects at historic Oakmont Country Club, Terry found his niche in the shop beginning as an assistant mechanic and never looked back.
Outside of work, you'll find Terry exploring the great outdoors through hiking, camping, or hitting the gym for a good workout.
In this episode, we dive into the challenges of optimizing preventative maintenance programs, the quirky things found upside down on golf courses, the intricacies of backlapping, and the delights of zoysiagrass. Terry and Trent also explore the historic maintenance facility at Overbrook Golf Club and the importance of prioritization in a job where ‘emergencies’ abound. Plus, don't miss out on some of Terry's coolest fabrication projects!
Welcome back to Episode 118 of the Reel Turf Techs Podcast! Two years after our first conversation with Skip Heinz, CTEM, Equipment and Facilities Manager at Royal Poinciana Golf Club in Naples, FL, we're diving deep into everything we missed the first time and exploring the state of the turf equipment management industry over his impressive 35-year tenure in golf.
Royal Poinciana Golf Club, a 36-hole golfing facility boasting tennis, pickleball, swimming, and various social activities, serves as the backdrop for Skip's reflections.
With four technicians in the shop and three in the facility maintenance department, Skip typically operates as the lone tech, occasionally receiving assistance from the crew. All his mowing equipment is Toro, complemented by a mix of allied equipment.
In this episode, we cover a wide range of topics, including how the industry has evolved, management styles, the essence of true leadership qualities (hint: shaming isn't one of them), and the critical importance of valuing employees in a challenging labor market.
Join us as we discuss the 7-day workweek culture for golf course technicians, the increasing role of cutting-edge technology in equipment management (hello, autonomous mowers!), and the environmental impact of battery technology.
And don't miss out on Skip's most important life lesson learned through his years of experience in the industry. It's an episode filled with wisdom, insights, and a deep dive into the ever-evolving world of turf equipment management on the Reel Turf Techs Podcast!