The PGA in England (Midlands) held its Year One Foundation Degree Training Induction morning on Friday, October.
This event formally welcomed and introduced the new Midlands-based Trainees, providing an insightful overview of the PGA Member Services Team and the wide range of resources and support available to them throughout their training and beyond. It also offered an opportunity for the Trainees to hear from two Midlands-based Members about their careers and journeys through training.
The session, attended by 32 engaged Trainees, featured interactive discussions and inspiring presentations that set a positive tone for the start of their training. The event began with a comprehensive presentation by Joe Kelly, PGA Head of Member Support, who outlined the various resources accessible to the Trainees. Joe’s presentation included a video introduction by Wayne Johnson, PGA International Manager, who shared his experiences and detailed the support services available to Members on an international scale. He also highlighted the potential career pathways for Trainees and Members from Great Britain and Ireland to pursue opportunities abroad.
Additionally, Joe presented videos featuring Josh Rowles, the PGA Trainee of the Year 2024, and Lucy Goddard, the Female Trainee of the Year 2024. In these videos, Josh and Lucy candidly discussed the challenges they faced during their training, their strategies for overcoming obstacles, and their invaluable tips for success. They also emphasised the importance of achieving full PGA Membership. This segment broadened the Trainees' understanding of the extensive opportunities available during their training and provided both practical guidance and motivation for their future endeavours.
Following Joe’s presentation, Gareth Shaw, PGA Member and Secretary of the Staffordshire Union, delivered an inspirational talk. Gareth shared his insights on successfully completing the PGA Foundation Degree and outlined his career trajectory. His reflections on resilience, goal-setting, and professional networking resonated with the Trainees, motivating them to broaden their perspectives on potential career avenues.
Next, Dan Whitby Smith, PGA Member and Head Professional at Drayton Park Golf Club, led an engaging question-and-answer session. This session allowed the Trainees to inquire about Dan’s professional journey, which transitioned from PGA Trainee to accomplished player and Head Professional. Dan’s reflections on overcoming challenges, advancing his career, and thriving within club life provided a practical and inspiring perspective that the Trainees found valuable.
The PGA would like to extend its sincere thanks to Gareth and Dan for generously sharing their time and expertise, which were greatly appreciated by all attendees. Also present were Sam Carr, PGA Member Support Manager, who facilitated discussions throughout, and Will Dunn, PGA Tournament Director for the Midlands, who shared information about tournament opportunities for Trainees.
The Trainees embraced the morning as an invaluable experience and expressed a desire for similar events in the future. The PGA Member Services Team remains committed to fostering ongoing connections with all three Foundation Degree cohorts, focusing on nurturing strong relationships as the Trainees progress through their training and transition to full membership. This continuous engagement will ensure that Trainees remain well-informed about the extensive services and benefits PGA Membership offers.
The induction morning marked a meaningful and uplifting start, laying a strong foundation for a rewarding tenure as a PGA Member.
