Are you the type of person who loves to be outdoors? Turfgrass Management may be the program for you! 

Students in the Turfgrass Management program learn the skills needed to become landscapers, groundskeepers, agricultural scientists, and horticulturalists. Not only do jobs in turfgrass change from season to season, but also day-to-day. Turfgrass management jobs are available in plant nurseries, landscape operations, golf courses, sports complexes, amusement parks, recreational services, and public and private companies that serve residential and commercial spaces.  

Nathan Webb (L), Turfgrass Management graduate and assistant superintendent at Sedgefield Country Club, stands with professional golfer and winner of the 2021 Wyndham Championship Kevin Kisner (R).

Wayne Community College offers students the opportunity to earn a two-year associate degree, a one-year diploma, or a two-semester certificate. Students enrolled in the associate’s degree and diploma programs at WCC are required to participate in an internship.

“This summer, we had two students work in the Women’s US Open in Southern Pines at the Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club. We also have a graduate who is now an assistant superintendant at Sedgefield Country Club in Greensboro, which hosts a PGA Tournament every year,” said Rob Woods, Turfgrass Management Instructor.

If you’re into working around sports teams, Woods also said, “We have students who land internships in baseball as well. For years we have placed students with the Down East Wood Ducks in Kinston.” The Down East Wood Ducks are a Minor League Baseball team that is part of the Carolina League and are owned and operated by the Single-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers.

On average, those who work in turfgrass occupations earn $43,000 per year in Wayne County. Some jobs even come with extra perks.

“We recently had a graduate start a job that included a three-bedroom apartment with paid utilities,” Woods stated.

Learn more about Turfgrass Management at waynecc.edu/turfgrass or contact Rob Woods at [email protected] or (919) 739-6810.