When people think of Registered Apprenticeship, they may picture careers in construction, manufacturing, or the skilled trades. But apprenticeship is also creating exciting career pathways in industries that keep our communities beautiful, safe, and thriving — including turfgrass management and groundskeeping.
New York State is overflowing with outdoor activities all across its land. There are more than 750 golf courses alone, in addition to thousands of other parks and athletic facilities that host sports and recreational activities of many types. In order to maintain these facilities in the proper ways, including sustainable upkeep, a knowledgeable and skilled workforce is required.
Through a partnership between the New York State Turfgrass Association (NYSTA) and SUNY Delhi, individuals pursuing careers in the Groundskeeper trade can now benefit from a structured training pathway that combines paid, hands-on work experience with related classroom instruction. This approach allows apprentices to develop practical skills while gaining the knowledge needed to grow and advance in their careers.
On August 27, 2026, 10 Groundskeeper apprenticeship applications submitted through NYSTA were approved, marking an important milestone in expanding Registered Apprenticeship opportunities across New York State. Apprentices in the Groundskeeper apprenticeship can get trained with a focus on Golf Course Maintenance and a more broad Sports Field Maintenance as well.
This partnership demonstrates how collaboration between SUNY and industry organizations can help employers develop their workforce while creating accessible, earn-and-learn pathways for individuals entering or advancing within a profession. By combining on-the-job training with classroom learning, Registered Apprenticeship helps bridge the gap between education and employment while supporting the long-term needs of New York’s workforce.
As SUNY continues to work with employers and industry partners across the state, partnerships like this one highlight the versatility of Registered Apprenticeship and its potential to support careers in a wide range of industries.
Congratulations to NYSTA, SUNY Delhi, and all those involved in expanding career opportunities in the Groundskeeper trade!
