The Power of Collaboration: Mentorship in Action
In our profession, mentorship is often thought of in traditional terms—one seasoned pro guiding a younger colleague along the well-worn path of the golf business. But in today’s fast-changing world, the most effective form of mentorship may be something more dynamic and mutual: collaboration.
Personally, I can attest to the power of collaboration. In my current role, it is not unusual for me to call on colleagues across the other forty to talk about prospective opportunities, and to learn. Likewise, as our section has been identified as a best practice section these last five years, it is not unusual for section staff to receive similar calls.
Collaboration is mentorship in motion. It breaks down the hierarchy of teacher and student and invites a shared exchange of ideas, experience, and insight. Whether it’s planning a junior clinic with a neighboring pro, co-hosting a community event, or simply sharing best practices over coffee at a sectional meeting, collaboration creates space for both giving and growing.
Our industry is uniquely suited to this. PGA Professionals wear many hats—coaches, business managers, merchandisers, tournament operators, and community leaders. None of us masters all of it alone. But together, when we share strategies, troubleshoot challenges, and learn from one another’s successes (and failures), we elevate not only ourselves but the profession as a whole.
Think about the last time you left a Chapter event or education summit. Odds are, the most valuable takeaway wasn’t from a keynote or handout, but a candid conversation with a colleague. That moment—that connection—is mentorship, too.
Mentorship through collaboration isn’t limited by age or experience level. A 25-year head professional may learn a new technology trick from a newly elected Associate. A young pro might gain wisdom about staff retention or member engagement from a veteran of 30 seasons. When we collaborate, we stop worrying about who’s teaching and who’s learning—and start focusing on shared success.
If we want to strengthen the Pacific Northwest PGA Section and deepen the value of the PGA brand, let’s champion a culture of collaboration. Seek it out. Initiate it. Invite a colleague to shadow a big event. Swap playbook templates. Share what’s worked at your club—and what hasn’t.
Mentorship doesn’t always require a formal structure. Sometimes, it’s as simple as the willingness to pick up the phone, meet for lunch, or walk nine holes and talk shop.
Collaboration is mentorship. It builds relationships, grows knowledge, and strengthens our game. And it’s one of the most generous, lasting contributions we can offer each other—and the profession we love.
Important Reminders and Notes
- DCP regional qualifying has wrapped up, and the winners from the fifteen sites have the opportunity to compete at the three sub-regionals, beginning August 19.
- Save the Date! The PNW PGA Mentoring Conference presented by TaylorMade, aboutGOLF, Evolve Golf and NI Golf Tours will be held November 11-12 at Tualatin Country Club. Make sure to register early, as we expect this event to fill quickly!
- The PNW PGA Fall Meeting will be held at Missoula Country Club on September 16 after the first round of the Section Championship. We look forward to seeing you there!
Special Thanks to our Sponsors…
- Our appreciation to StrackaLine for creating the custom yardage booklets for the 2025 Rosauers Open Invitational.
- A special welcome to our newest sponsor, Ian Crick with KRADUL.
As always, if I or any member of our amazing section staff can be of service, please do not hesitate to reach out: [email protected].