The Future of Turf Management: Announcing the FTMI Class of 2026

The delegates for the 2026 Future Turf Managers Initiative (FTMI) have been decided by BIGGA and Jacobsen.

Each year, 15 up-and-coming association members are chosen to participate in the training programme credited with developing some of the most influential course managers and head greenkeepers. First hosted in 2013 as a two-day education event, FTMI has since expanded around the world, with similar schemes now operating in Spain, Portugal, Australia and New Zealand.

The initiative has benefited over 200 BIGGA members, with many citing FTMI as key to their development. Head of Professional Development, Deb Burnett, underlined the quality of this year’s cohort, who hail from clubs across the UK and represent a broad range of roles within the greenkeeping profession. “FTMI continues to attract outstanding applications from ambitious BIGGA members who are already making a real impact at their clubs and within their regions,” she said. “The class of 2026 reflects the strength and depth of talent coming through the industry, and we are excited to support them as they build the skills, confidence and networks that will help them take the next step in their careers.”

“FTMI is a cornerstone of Jacobsen’s commitment to building a bright future for the sport of golf and the greater golf industry,” said Barry McTavish, Vice President and General Manager for Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd.  “Alongside BIGGA, we are identifying and developing the next generation of leaders, to better equip and prepare them to manage our industry’s critical assets – our golf courses – responsibly, sustainably, and in a manner that supports the growth of our sport,”

That sense of excitement is shared by Jethro Wilson, senior greenkeeper at Loch Lomond, who is looking forward to joining the exclusive ranks of FTMI graduates. “Being selected for FTMI means a great deal to me,” he said. “Developing as a turf manager is something I’m passionate about, and this is a fantastic opportunity to learn from some of the best people in the industry while building relationships with like-minded professionals. I’m excited to make the most of every experience over the next year.”

The programme has been designed to provide practical tools and guidance to help candidates to pursue their career aspirations. Working with professional trainers, mentors and Jacobsen and BIGGA staff, graduates gain a clear understanding of what the future holds and a realistic overview ofthe expectations that come with the role of manager. FTMI takes place at Ransomes Jacobsen’s headquarters in Ipswich, during online education sessions and across two days of education at BTME.

 

FTMI Class of 2026

• Ruben Aitchison, deputy head greenkeeper, Tain
• Matthew Cox, deputy course manager, Whitecraigs
• Jonathan Dykes, assistant greenkeeper, Harleyford
• Harry Glover, first assistant greenkeeper, Lee Park
• Oliver Hopkin, first assistant, Hollinwell
• Ruaridh Marshall, assistant greenkeeper, Sunningdale
• Laurie Owen, course supervisor/first assistant, Gog Magog
• Harvey Sims, first assistant, Hayling
• Gregory Smith, first assistant, The Berkshire
• Toby Smith, deputy course manager, Redlibbets
• Tommy Spender, greenkeeper, Highwoods
• Harlie Stokes, assistant greenkeeper/irrigation technician, Sandiway
• Bradley Taylor, first assistant, Beau Desert
• Jethro Wilson, senior greenkeeper, Loch Lomond
• Dominic Wright, spray technician/senior greenkeeper, Fulford