053 I Beneath the Surface: Dave Wilber on Soil Technology, Sustainability & the Future of Turf

In this episode of Leadership on the Links , host Tyler Bloom sits down with industry veteran Dave Wilber, whose four-decade journey in turf has taken him from ranches and fairways to a global consulting career. Now in a new role as Director of Customer Success and Agronomy at TerraRad Tech, Dave shares how he's helping bring game-changing soil moisture technology to the turf world. The conversation explores how TerraRad's L-band microwave sensors are enabling smarter irrigation and better decision-making—and why tech like this is becoming essential. But the discussion also dives into leadership, mentorship, and the evolving challenges facing today's superintendents. Dave opens up about career reinvention, burnout, and the importance of lifelong learning in a fast-changing industry. Whether you're managing a course, mentoring a team, or just thinking about what's next, this episode offers real talk, sharp insights, and a clear look at where the turf industry is headed. What we learned from this episode: ✅ Career Reinvention is Possible – Dave transitioned from decades of turf consulting into a tech-forward role at TerraRad Tech, proving that adaptation and lifelong learning keep you relevant. ✅ Technology is Shaping the Future of Turf – TerraRad's L-band microwave radiometry sensors go beneath the surface—literally—by measuring soil moisture 3-4 inches deep and integrating with platforms like Toro Lynx for intelligent irrigation management. ✅ ROI-Driven Innovation Matters – With water and budget pressures growing, the ability to visualize and act on moisture data is a game-changer for many operations. ✅ Mentorship + Curiosity = Longevity – Dave's career longevity is rooted in staying curious, reading outside of the turf world, and helping others grow through mentorship. Links mentioned: TerraRad Tech - https://terraradtech.com/turfrad/ David Wilber LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-wilber-53696730a/