MEET THE NEXT GEN OF PROFESSIONALS

The organisers of the upcoming SALTEX exhibition have announced that members of the GMA’s NextGen group will be joining this year’s event at the NEC Birmingham on 30-31 October 2024, offering "fresh perspectives and a passion for the future of grounds management."

GMA NextGen, sponsored by Reesink Turfcare, is described as a dynamic group of committed young professionals serving as ambassadors for the industry. Their mission is to inspire and recruit the next generation of grounds staff by showcasing the wide range of rewarding career opportunities within the sector.

From school leavers to early-career professionals, the group say they are dedicated to promoting awareness and enthusiasm for an industry that plays a crucial role in sports and public spaces whilst ensuring the industry remains vibrant and well-equipped for the future. 

Visitors can connect with the group at the GMA Hub, stand C190 across both days of the exhibition. They’ll be on hand to offer practical advice to those interested in taking their first steps or looking to progress in the industry.

Members Meg Lay (groundsperson at Lord’s Cricket Ground) and Jack Langley (deputy head groundsperson at Ashton Gate Stadium) will also be taking part in a SALTEX Learning Live session ‘How to attract young people into the industry’ which will discuss the diverse opportunities the grounds sector offers young people - and how to encourage them to get started on a rewarding career.

Meg Lay said, “I am hugely passionate about promoting our industry to a younger generation and I am very much looking forward to speaking on the topic at SALTEX. The exhibition is a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded people and discuss how we can improve the sector.”