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BIGGA and Jacobsen have announced the delegates for the 2026 Future Turf Managers Initiative (FTMI).
Each year, 15 up-and-coming BIGGA members are chosen to participate in the training programme credited with developing some of the most influential course managers and head greenkeepers.
First hosted in 2013 as a two-day education event, FTMI has since expanded around the world, with similar schemes now operating in Spain, Portugal, Australia and New Zealand.
Deb Burnett, BIGGA's head of professional development, said, "The class of 2026 reflects the strength and depth of talent coming through the industry, and we are excited to support them as they build the skills, confidence and networks that will help them take the next step in their careers."
The initiative has benefited over 200 BIGGA members, with many citing their FTMI experience as key to their development. BIGGA says the programme has been designed to provide practical tools and guidance to help candidates pursue their career aspirations. Working with professional trainers, mentors, Jacobsen and BIGGA staff, graduates gain a clear understanding of what the future holds and a realistic overview of the expectations that come with the role of manager.
FTMI begins at Ransomes Jacobsen's headquarters in Ipswich and is followed by a series of online education sessions before culminating in two days of education at BTME in January.
Candidates are selected based upon an anonymous judging criterion, with the panel gaining an insight into the achievements of each application, who must be educationally active on a national and regional level.
FTMI class of 2026
Editorial Address:
LandPower Publications LLP, Howbery Park, Benson Lane, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8BA
Telephone:
Steve Gibbs: +44 (0)7929 438213
