081 | Pathways, Not Shortcuts: Inside the NYSTA–SUNY Delhi Apprenticeship Model with Ryan Bain and Sue VanAmburgh

Summary: Book a Free Talent Strategy Call In this episode, Tyler Bloom sits down with Ryan Bain, one of the very first NYSTA Greenskeeper apprentices, and Sue VanAmburgh from the New York State Turfgrass Association to unpack how the apprenticeship program is reshaping career pathways in golf course maintenance. They walk through Ryan's non-traditional journey from business/marketing graduate and landscaper to assistant and emerging leader in turf, and how an "open-minded" superintendent at Noyac Golf Club took a chance on potential over pedigree. Sue then pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to administer a statewide apprenticeship: communication with employers and SUNY Delhi, onboarding expectations, time management, and what happens when apprentices fall behind… or move on. Together, they tackle the questions superintendents and club leaders quietly worry about: Who is actually a good fit for an apprenticeship? What kind of employer environment is necessary? What if it doesn't work out? Along the way, you'll hear how the program balances classroom learning with on-course reps and how networking, peer support, and vendor participation can turn apprenticeship into a true workforce-development engine for the industry. What You'll Learn: Non-traditional backgrounds can be high-ceiling hires. Ryan had limited turf experience but a formal business degree, landscaping background, and clear drive - exactly the kind of profile most clubs overlook but this program is built to serve. Apprenticeship is a partnership, not a recruitment gimmick. NYSTA and SUNY Delhi emphasize that employers should identify someone already on their team they want to grow, then wrap structure, education, and support around that person. Structure + communication make the program work. Clear expectations (3–5 hours of coursework per week, a dedicated apprenticeship director, check-ins between employers, SUNY Delhi, and apprentices) keep the workload manageable and progress on track. It's not for everyone - on both sides. Apprentices need motivation, self-awareness, and a long-term growth mindset. Employers need the bandwidth and desire to mentor, not just get another set of hands on a mower. The hidden ROI is networking and leadership development. Cohort connections, in-person labs at SUNY Delhi, and peer group texts help apprentices feel less isolated — and give emerging leaders like Ryan a platform to coach the next class. Links: Learn More about the NYSTA Apprenticeship Program: https://nystaapprenticeship.com/