Why You Should Consider a Career in the Golf Industry

The golf industry is more than just a game—it’s a thriving, multifaceted sector with vast career opportunities. From managing world-class resorts to overseeing operations at public courses, careers in golf management offer a dynamic blend of business, sport, and community engagement. As the demand for skilled professionals grows, golf is becoming an attractive field for those looking to combine their passion for the sport with a rewarding career.

In an interview with Grant Fraser, Founder and President of the Golf Management Institute of Canada, at Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario, we explored the exciting and diverse opportunities in the world of golf. Often seen as an exclusive sport, golf is undergoing a transformation, with over 2,400 courses across Canada—80% of them public—mirroring the diversity of their local communities.

Whether you’re an avid golfer or simply drawn to the idea of working in a dynamic field, here are some compelling reasons why a career in golf could be your next big move.

Diverse Career Opportunities

The golf industry offers a wide range of career paths, including course management, retail, coaching, event planning, marketing, and even technology development. Whether you envision yourself managing a golf course, working in sales, or contributing behind the scenes, there’s a role to fit your unique skills and interests. Career options can span from golf course superintendent to sports marketing, making this industry one of the most versatile.

Passion for the Game

Working in the golf industry allows you to immerse yourself in an environment that celebrates a passion for the game. As Grant Fraser puts it, “golf mirrors life.” The game instills valuable life skills—like patience, honesty, and discipline—that resonate both on and off the course. for example the curiosity and discipline to rake your sand trap, and replace your divots are life skills that serve everyone.  It also teaches life lessons in honesty, as you score your own game, you can decide to be authentic or stretch the truth. Whether you’re managing a course, running a tournament, or providing client services and/or lessons, you’ll be surrounded by fellow enthusiasts who share your love for the game. This camaraderie can allow you to do what you love, for work and pleasure.

Networking and Community Building

Golf is a relationship-driven industry. The connections you make while working in golf can open doors to new opportunities, mentorships, and collaborations. Volunteering as a Starter, Marshall, or Tournament Staff, for example, can significantly expand your network. Attending industry events keeps you informed on the latest trends and innovations in the industry while deepening your relationships within the field.

Growth and Innovation

The golf industry is continuously evolving, with new technologies and trends shaping how the game is played and experienced. Pete Dye, an American Golf Course Architect said, “the ardent golfer would play Mount Everest if somebody put a flagstick on top.”

From advancements in equipment design to the rise of virtual reality golf simulations, there’s a wealth of innovation to be involved in. By working in this sector, you can be part of shaping the future of golf, whether through product development, marketing strategies, or operational improvements.

Focus on Health and Wellness

Golf promotes physical fitness, mental well-being, and social connection. A career in golf allows you to advocate for a healthy lifestyle while working in an environment that encourages outdoor activity and social engagement. Many roles, especially in coaching or community outreach, focus on introducing new audiences to the game as well as emphasizing its benefits for health and wellness.

Global Reach

Golf is a global sport played and loved in countries worldwide. This international appeal means that career opportunities are not limited to your local area. Whether you dream of managing a luxury golf resort in the Caribbean or working with a professional tour in Europe, the possibilities are vast. A career in golf can take you around the world, providing unique experiences and cultural exchanges.

Community Impact

As Grant highlights, “golf gives back”. From charity tournaments to youth outreach programs, golf is deeply connected to the community. Inherent in the sport are values of mentorship, coaching, common courtesy, and customs. These values enhance the experience of those who play, and who steward these values in their communities. This sense of fulfillment often leads to long-term career satisfaction.

Job Satisfaction and Fulfillment

Many professionals in the golf industry report high levels of job satisfaction. Take Gerry, a long-time employee at Glen Abbey Golf Club, for example. After a 30-year indoor career, he’s spent the last 19 years working outdoors and meeting new people, which has transformed his day-to-day experience. He also proudly shared that many of his fellow staff members are long-standing employees, just like him. “We want to be here!” he exclaimed, reflecting the deep connection many have with their roles in golf.

If you’re passionate about golf and looking for a rewarding career, the golf industry offers a wealth of opportunities to thrive. With its diverse career paths, emphasis on community, focus on innovation, and the chance to promote health and wellness, working in golf can be a fulfilling choice.

As Jack Nicklaus, retired professional golfer, once said, “I’m a firm believer in the theory that people only do their best at things they truly enjoy. It is difficult to excel at something you don’t enjoy.”

If you enjoy golf, there’s no better time to turn that passion into a fulfilling career.

Registration is open for McMaster Continuing Education’s Business of Golf & Resort Management program. Explore how this program can equip you with the skills needed to succeed in this exciting industry.

Grant Fraser, M.Ed., M.B.A., is a successful entrepreneur having started and sold numerous businesses over the last 30 years. Grant began his career working as an Account Manager for the Bank of Montreal and Royal Bank of Canada before entering the golf business. In 1995, he started the first Professional Golf Management (PGM) program in Ontario at Humber College and was named the college’s “Innovator of the Year” for introducing this unique program to the college’s offerings. Grant is currently an instructor at McMaster Continuing Education in the Business of Golf & Resort Management program. Grant is a proud recipient of the McMaster University, Centre for Continuing Education’s Appreciation and Exceptional Service Award, presented to him in 2018.

Grant is also an award-winning writer and photographer for Ontario Golf News and Flagstick magazine, two of Canada’s leading golf publications. He is the publisher of GolfTheWorld.ca, a golf and travel website that highlights golf destinations around the world. Grant is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) and the Golf Travel Writers of America (GTWA). In addition, he is a former president of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) and the Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC).

As former president, Grant continues to serve on the board of directors of GJAC and the Golf Management Institute of Canada (GMIC). He is also on the Hall of Fame selection committee for Golf Ontario and the PGA of Canada. Moreover, in 2018, Fraser Grant served as the Pro-Am Committee Chairperson of the RBC Canadian Open, and in 2019, was made an honorary director of the PGA of Canada.