Apex, NC – November 25, 2025 – The Golf Business Network (GBN) will host its highly anticipated annual in-person education program January 20–22, 2026, during the PGA Show at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. This signature event continues to be the largest gathering of GBN members each year, offering world-class education and unparalleled face-to-face networking for private-club golf professionals.
“We look forward to this week all year long,” said Patrick Seither, CEO of Golf Business Network. “It’s the one time we bring the vast majority of our members together under one roof to share ideas, strengthen relationships, and elevate both their careers and their clubs.”
Attendees will enjoy 12 focused educational sessions across three days, plus evening happy hours on Wednesday and Thursday. Topics span club governance, personal branding, member engagement, instruction, merchandising, team building, and more—featuring insights from over 30 accomplished panelists and presenters from top private clubs.
GBN extends sincere thanks to Title Sponsors Evolve Golf and Land and Links for their generous support of this event and their ongoing commitment to GBN and its members throughout the year.
GBN members may register for these classes here.
If you are a Private-club golf professionals interested in attending, we invite you to learn more by filling out this form.
2026 GBN Education Schedule
(All sessions at Orange County Convention Center)
Tuesday, January 20
8:00 – 11:00 AM | HGP/DOG/GM Annual Meeting – Club Governance Panel
This extended session dives deep into the complexities of club governance, offering practical strategies for navigating difficult situations and understanding the unique dynamics of board-governed, single-owner, and private-equity clubs. Attendees will gain actionable insights on communication best practices that strengthen leadership and maintain club harmony.
Panelists: Scott Mahr (GM, The Standard Club), Jim Clay (GM, Old Waverly Golf Club)
Wednesday, January 21
8:30 – 9:30 AM | The Power of Your Brand
In today’s digital world, a strong personal and club brand is essential. This session explores how to build an authentic online presence, craft a standout resume, and shape a professional identity that opens doors.
Panelists: Drew Glover (Yellowstone Club), Chris Rowe (Whispering Pines Golf Club), Eric Williamson (Charlotte Country Club), Eric Veilleux (The Bear’s Club)
10:00 – 11:00 AM | Assistant Golf Professional Meeting
Designed specifically for rising assistants, this interactive discussion covers mentorship, networking, and the critical skills needed to advance in private-club golf. Learn how to differentiate yourself and prepare for your next career move.
Panelists: Devin Gee (Oakmont Country Club), Tyler Jaramillo (Fenway Golf Club), Matt Cahill (Seminole Golf Club), Reed Lansinger (Canoe Brook Country Club)
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Unlocking Member Insights for Success
Discover how to cut through the noise and collect meaningful member data that drives better programming and satisfaction. The panel shares proven methods for engagement, feedback implementation, and tailoring experiences to different demographics.
Panelists: Troy Spencer (Marietta Country Club), Ryan Skipton (The Windsor Club), Chris Dymek (Manasquan River Golf Club)
1:00 – 2:00 PM | Mastering Public Speaking
Whether addressing members or staff, confident communication is a game-changer. This session delivers practical techniques for owning the microphone, calming nerves, and delivering clear, impactful messages every time.
Panelists: Moderator Steve Scott (Silver Club Golfing Society); John Mascari (Alpine Country Club), Chris Rowe (Whispering Pines Golf Club)
2:30 – 3:30 PM | Tech-Enhanced Golf Instruction
Explore the latest technology transforming golf instruction and how it can elevate your teaching game. Panelists demonstrate cutting-edge tools and share real-world examples of how tech accelerates player improvement.
Panelists: Heather Angell (The Golf Club at Fiddler’s Creek), Sean Quinlivan (Shinnecock Hills Golf Club), Adam Smith (Country Club of Virginia)
3:45 – 4:45 PM | Leaders in the Industry
Hear directly from three of the most respected Directors of Golf in private-club golf as they share their journeys, philosophies, and lessons learned at some of America’s most iconic clubs.
Panelists: Scott Kirkwood (Los Angeles Country Club), Daniel Coughlan (Monterey Peninsula Country Club), Tom Gardner (Bel-Air Country Club)
Thursday, January 22
8:30 – 9:30 AM | Enhanced Event Gifting
Elevate your tournaments and member events with creative, memorable gifting strategies. From innovative tee gifts to onsite experiences and prize ideas, this session is packed with fresh concepts you can implement immediately.
Panelists: Jake Pleczkowski (Sankaty Head Golf Club), Taylor Ramiz (Manasquan River Golf Club)
10:00 – 11:00 AM | Becoming Their Coach
Andy Hilts explains how to shift from one-off lessons to building long-term coaching relationships that boost revenue and student results. Learn scheduling tactics, package pricing, and the mindset required to become a member’s true coach.
Presenter: Andy Hilts
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Financial Playbook
Take control of your financial future with expert guidance on personal finance, retirement and savings planning, and small-business financial strategies tailored to golf professionals.
Presenter: Kristen Muranyi
1:00 – 2:00 PM | Path to General Manager
Three accomplished PGA General Managers reveal the mentorship, skills, and strategies that propelled them to the top role. Gain insider advice on standing out and preparing for the GM chair.
Panelists: Keith Reese (Valhalla Golf Club), Stefan Brunt (Sawgrass Country Club), Chris Nathlich (White Bear Yacht Club)
2:30 – 3:30 PM | Smart Inventory and Purchasing Strategies
Master the art of buying right, managing inventory efficiently, and adapting strategies seasonally to maximize profit and minimize risk in your golf shop.
Panelists: Dan Guidarelli (Manhattan Woods Golf Club), Charles Beurmann (Cullasaja Club), Jacquie Mooney (Trump National Charlotte)
3:45 – 4:45 PM | Building the Right Team
Learn how to identify top talent, create a thriving team culture, and use feedback to retain and develop your staff into a championship operation.
Panelists: Eric Gilliand (Audubon Country Club), AJ Sikula (Sleepy Hollow Country Club), Paul Clivio (Saint Andrews Country Club), Sean Golden (The Creek)
About Golf Business Network
Golf Business Network (GBN) is the preeminent private-club networking organization connecting golf industry professionals, private clubs, and premier vendor partners. Through exclusive events, education, executive search services, and member-only benefits, GBN drives excellence and builds lasting relationships across the private golf community.
For more information about upcoming GBN events, visit www.golfbusinessnetwork.com.
About Evolve Golf:
Based in Wilmington, NC, Evolve Golf is dedicated to making high quality golf essentials and tournament gifts with a focus on performance, sustainability, and craftsmanship.
Proudly offering GBN Members our best pricing since 2008.
About Land and Links:
Based in Augusta, GA, Land & Links is a premier golf and destination travel company crafting unforgettable experiences for the inspired golfer at the world’s most iconic courses and venues. Serving private golf clubs, corporate leaders, and passionate golf groups, Land & Links simplifies and elevates group travel from start to finish. Every detail is handled with precision, ensuring a seamless and extraordinary golf travel experience.