Culture that works: Building better greenkeeping teams

Queen's Suite 4
1:30PM - 5:00PM, 19 Jan 2026

A great turf operation doesn’t just rely on skill or strategy—it thrives on culture. In this class, Brent Downs explores what it takes to intentionally build a healthy, productive, and people‑focused workplace in the greenkeeping profession.

Drawing on real experiences in leadership and management, this class will help attendees understand how to shift away from reactive, high‑stress environments and toward a proactive culture grounded in clear expectations, core values, consistent systems, mutual trust, and real accountability. Attendees will learn how to define their team values, design systems that reinforce those values, and coach individuals in a way that builds confidence and performance over time.

Whether you manage a small crew or a multi‑course operation, this class offers the frameworks and tools to lead a team where people want to stay, grow, and contribute.

Learning outcomes

  • Understand the key elements of a strong, sustainable team culture
  • Learn how to communicate clear expectations and reduce workplace chaos
  • Explore the link between daily systems and long‑term team morale
  • Gain tools for coaching accountability without micromanagement
  • Build a workplace where people are motivated to do their best work

Presented by:

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Brent Downs MG CGCS

Director of Agronomy Otter Creek Golf Course/Harrison Lake Country Club

Brent Downs is the Director of Agronomy at Harrison Lake Country Club and Otter Creek Golf Course in the United States. His career has taken him around the world, with internships in Scotland and Australia, and includes key agronomy roles at prestigious clubs such as Augusta National, Valhalla, and the Philadelphia Cricket Club. A superintendent and director for over a decade, Brent is passionate about the ongoing growth of the profession—particularly through education and technology. He holds memberships and certifications through Toastmasters International and Dale Carnegie Training and is a proud graduate of Purdue University. Brent earned his Certified Golf Course Superintendent status in 2021 and achieved the coveted Master Greenkeeper distinction in 2024. Today, he is committed to helping others grow through peer learning, leadership development, and innovation in the turf industry.

 

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