Experience. It’s valuable in so many aspects of life. Whether it’s good or bad, experiences teach us something and allow us to grow. New experiences, though, provide opportunity for even further growth and development as an individual.
This summer, high school golfers have an opportunity to gain valuable experience through the TGA Foundation’s Bill Penn Internship Program. Applications are now open for the 10-week, paid program which provides high school golfers not only with a paycheck, but also an introduction to the golf industry and the wide range of jobs, mentors, and networking possibilities that it provides. Prospective interns complete a thorough application process detailing their interests and goals and are interviewed by representatives from both the TGA and the prospective club.
“I am excited about this year’s Bill Penn Internship. We have decided to double the number of interns we hire from three to six in 2022. We have had great success with this program and want to see it continue to grow,” Managing Director of TGA Foundation Kelly Kilgo said.
The program first began in 2016 and featured one intern but has since continued to grow as motivated young people and clubs alike have seen the many benefits it provides for both parties. Six interns will mark the largest Bill Penn class to date.
The program honors the late Bill Penn, who was a true ambassador of the game and served as the first Executive Director of the Texas Golf Association from 1988-2000. His commitment to growing the game was evident through a lifetime of giving back as a volunteer and professional golf administrator.
Interns are provided with opportunities to work in multiple areas of club operations on a rotating schedule as part of the club commitment. Moreover, interns are also given opportunities to learn and play golf while on the job. By participating, clubs gain access to young people with golf backgrounds to help fill seasonal employment needs.
Last summer, Meer Patel interned with Gleneagles Country Club in Plano and recommended this internship to anyone interested in learning more about the golf industry.
“I would have to say my favorite part of the internship at Gleneagles was greeting and meeting the members,” Patel said. “Everyone was extremely friendly and easy to talk to. I managed to build a few relationships with some of the members which honestly made working all the better. I was lucky enough to see people such as Tony Romo!”
To learn more about the Bill Penn Internship Program, click here. To apply please send your resume and cover letter to Kelly Kilgo at kkilgo@txga.org. The deadline to apply is May 1.