PGA of Canada

05 This research compliments the findings from the PGA of Canada's study on how Head Golf Profes- sionals achieved career success, as well as offers new insights for aspir- ing Teaching Professionals who are interested in rese ng and re-ener- gizing their career path. It is important, the myths of career progression are replaced by facts. By using data collected from: i) a survey of current Head Teaching Professionals, and ii) 10 in-depth interviews with some of Canada's top golf professionals, this research provides a mix of prac cal and re- search-based advice that promotes career growth. • 54 % of those surveyed obtained their first Head Teaching Professional role between the ages of 26- 35, while a further 26 % acquire this top teaching role between 36-45 years of age. • 80 % reported they appren ced in an Assistant Teaching Professional role for a minimum of five years before becoming a Head Teaching Professional while 36 % stated they appren ced for at least eight years. • 90 % are currently employed in an urban club / facility. • 37 % reported a salary of over $80k per year from their primary role, however, when asked what their total annual salary was from all roles (golf and otherwise), 60 % reported a salary of over $80k per year. • Nearly 100 % reported inves ng significant personal me in ongoing professional development (both 'formal' such as a ending a seminar and 'informal' such as reading), with 85 % repor ng they regularly a end PGA of Canada Zone seminars. • Playing ability ma ers: the ability to maintain a low golf index, qualify for and compete in local, regional or na onal tournaments, and demonstrate to their students a high level of golf skills contributes to a strong personal brand will set aspiring Teaching Professionals apart from their peers. • Pa ence, hard work, and con nued learning are three virtues that will lead to career success in golf. In addi on to golf-specific educa on, comple ng a post-secondary degree in business studies and establishing a mentor rela onship with a respected golf professional are fundamental prerequisites to success. SOME OF THE RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS The 10 Career Maps provided (see Appendix A) were based on in-depth interviews and offers the reader a chance to review real-life career progression, key learn- ings by role, as well as the educa on, cer fica on, and professional development a ained by some of Canada's most respected Head Teaching Professionals.

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