083 | From Superintendent to Capillary Flow: Rewriting the Turf Career Playbook with David Hardesty

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "f38e1543-ebb8-4b3d-afbd-34cc58ed1238" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Summary Book a Free Talent Strategy Call In this episode of Leadership on the Links , Tyler sits down with David Hardesty of Capillary Flow to unpack two big themes shaping the turf side of the golf industry: non-traditional career paths and technology that actually makes superintendents' lives easier. David walks through his journey from turf school and construction projects with Jack Nicklaus and Big Cedar, to his current role helping clubs rethink bunkers, water management, and labor through Capillary's solutions. Along the way, he and Tyler dig into how roles are evolving, what it really takes to transition out of a traditional superintendent track, and how Bloom Golf Partners recently partnered with Capillary to build and fill a brand-new "Field Technology & Quality Manager" position. Whether you're a superintendent, assistant, vendor, or club leader, this conversation is a real-world look at where the industry is headed and how to position yourself and your team to keep up. What You'll Learn How David navigated a non-linear career path from superintendent to a technology- and construction-focused role with Capillary Flow. Why you shouldn't box yourself into one "traditional" turf role and what to consider when exploring alternative paths. What Capillary Flow actually does beyond bunker liners, and how hydroponic and water management solutions are changing expectations on the ground. How independent data and university research are helping validate water savings and drive smarter adoption of new technology. How Bloom Golf Partners helped Capillary design and recruit for a brand-new Field Technology & Quality Manager role from scratch. Why clarity in role design (especially around second assistants and emerging positions) is critical for recruiting, retention, and long-term team performance. Practical advice on authenticity in interviews and leadership why being yourself is an advantage, not a liability, in today's market. Links Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hardesty-93469861 Learn more about Capillary Flow: https://www.capillaryflow.com/