Internships are essential building blocks in shaping a capable, passionate and inclusive workforce. In the golf industry, internships open career pathways across a range of disciplines: operations, hospitality, communications, agronomy, merchandising and business management. When thoughtfully designed, these opportunities unlock potential, fuel long-term career interest, and provide an entry point into an industry that thrives on relationships, innovation and community engagement.
The golf industry supports over 1.6 million jobs nationwide. As workforce demographics shift and competition for talent intensifies, investing in early career development is critical. Inclusive internships invite fresh ideas, reflect the communities golf serves and help future-proof operations.
Engaged Interns Spark Retention
Studies show that inclusive early-career programs create long-term workforce loyalty and stronger employee engagement. According to a 2023 National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) report, 70 percent of interns who receive meaningful mentorship and real responsibilities stay in their industry beyond graduation. Among underrepresented groups, retention increases when interns feel welcomed and valued.
The PGA of America supports several initiatives aimed at connecting talent with opportunity. The PGA of America REACH Foundation’s PGA WORKS fellowships place recent college graduates in one-year, paid roles at PGA Sections, providing hands-on exposure to golf operations, community engagement and event planning. The initiative has helped launch more than 150 careers and reflects a commitment to workforce diversification and leadership development. The PGA Frisco home office supports 10 to 15 internships each summer over an eight-week period, across departments ranging from public relations to marketing, human re sources and events. These positions do not require a background in golf, although a love of the game or background in sports can be beneficial for some departments.
Golf facilities have a unique opportunity to embrace job rotation as part of the internship experience. Interns can rotate across departments – grounds, golf shop, events, food & beverage and communications – gaining a well-rounded understanding of how a facility operates. This structure keeps interns engaged, builds cross-functional skills and sparks interest in areas they may not have previously considered. It also reflects the dynamic nature of careers in golf.
Creating Strong Internship Programs at Golf Facilities
Facilities of all sizes can launch meaningful internship programs. The following recommendations can help foster success:
• Define roles with purpose: Design internships with meaningful projects, not just shadowing. Assign projects that align with facility goals and develop transferable skills.
• Partner with local schools: Work with high schools, colleges and vocational programs to reach students with diverse interests in hospitality, turfgrass management, business, marketing, culinary arts and more.
• Offer mentorships: Assign a staff mentor who can provide feedback, answer questions and model professional behavior. Interns are more likely to succeed and return if they feel supported.
• Include everyone: Consider candidates of all backgrounds, including first-generation students, Veterans, individuals with disabilities and those unfamiliar with golf.
• Pay fairly: Whenever possible, offer paid internships or stipends to remove barriers for students. Compensation ensures a broader applicant pool and increases commitment.
• Track and improve: Gather feedback from interns and staff to improve each cycle. Interns who leave with a positive impression often become ambassadors or future hires.
Driving the Industry Forward
Internships rooted in purpose and inclusion create a welcoming environment, which helps fuel a powerful talent pipeline for the industry. They help address staffing challenges, improve retention and grow leadership from within. Building strong connections between education and careers in golf strengthens the industry and reinforces its long-term vitality.
