First Horizon Coliseum – Carolinas PGA SuperShow – February 17th, 2025

The PGA REACH Carolinas Foundation successfully hosted its third annual Careers in Golf Roundtable on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the First Horizon Coliseum in Greensboro, NC, as part of the Carolinas PGA Super Show. The event welcomed college students from diverse academic backgrounds to explore the many career opportunities within the $100 billion golf industry.

With a record number of student participants, this year’s event provided attendees with exclusive access to industry leaders, networking opportunities, and career insights. Students also had the chance to explore the largest golf vendor exhibit in North and South Carolina, featuring over 200 companies spanning equipment, media, event management, branding, technology, and more.

Industry Leaders Inspire the Next Generation

The Careers in Golf Roundtable featured a panel of distinguished industry professionals, each sharing their unique journey and providing insight into careers in marketing, branding, and professional golf management. The panel was moderated by Don Sweeting, PGA, Team Lead, PGA Career Services Consultants, and included:

  • Gabriella Story – Program Director, Campbell PGA Golf Management
  • Jordan Young – Account Manager, Crosshand Productions
  • Scott Whitfield II – Senior Manager, Brand & Fan Experience, USGA

Panelists discussed topics such as breaking into the industry, overlooked career paths, the role of technology in golf, and the future of diversity and inclusion in the sport. Students were encouraged to ask questions, and an interactive Q&A session allowed for engaging discussion on career growth, skill development, and industry trends.

Student Engagement & Exclusive Access

Participation in the event continues to grow year over year, and this year’s President’s Day timing provided even greater accessibility for students. As an added benefit, attendees received complimentary access to the Carolinas PGA Super Show, an event that typically costs $100+ per person for PGA Professionals and industry members.

Beyond the panel discussion, students had the opportunity to:

  • Explore 200+ golf industry exhibitors and connect with potential employers
  • Attend the keynote address by Taylor Zarzour, host of The Starter with Taylor Zarzour on SiriusXM and the voice of golf’s major championships
  • Receive an exclusive welcome gift as a token of appreciation for their participation

Building a More Inclusive Golf Industry

A major focus of the Careers in Golf Roundtable was diversity, equity, and inclusion within the golf industry. Panelists shared personal experiences, challenges, and advice on how students from underrepresented backgrounds can position themselves for success in the field. PGA REACH Carolinas continues to drive initiatives that expand career opportunities for students from all backgrounds and grow awareness of the industry’s evolving landscape.

Next Career Opportunity – Career Exploration Day Hosted at the 2025 PGA Championship!

Don’t miss this exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Golf Club in Charlotte, NC!

  • Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
  • Location: Quail Hollow Golf Club, Charlotte, NC
  • Complimentary transportation from SouthPark Mall (4400 Sharon Rd, Charlotte, NC)
  • Attendees receive TWO FREE practice round tickets for Tuesday, May 13th!

This event provides an inside look at careers in Tournament Operations, Technology, Media, and Merchandising. You’ll tour the PGA Championship grounds and meet key professionals working behind the scenes.

REGISTER HERE – For questions, contact Leila Mackie at leilam@pgahq.com.

PGA REACH Carolinas is committed to expanding career development initiatives and increasing student engagement in golf’s many career pathways. 

For more information on PGA REACH Carolinas and upcoming events, visit https://carolinas.pga.com/ or contact Mia Hayasaki at mhayasaki@pgahq.com.

Follow PGA REACH Carolinas on social media for updates on future events!

Media Assets: Click here for photos from the event

About PGA REACH Carolinas
PGA REACH Carolinas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the charitable arm of the Carolinas PGA Section. Focused on positively impacting lives through the game of golf, PGA REACH Carolinas operates three main pillars: Youth, Military, and Inclusion.