Member Spotlight - Kathryn Wood, Canadian Golf Superintendents Association

How did you get your start in the industry? 

I was intrigued by the whole hotel industry during a trip to Florida as a teen.  I decided to work in a hotel before going to school to see if it was fun. I then went to school for hotel and resort administration. After school I was working at the Marriott Toronto Eaton Centre in the Front Office.  I knew of MPI and ended up attending a monthly meeting.  There I ran into a co-worker and she advised that she was speaking to someone who was looking for someone to take a maternity leave contract (was 6 months at the time) planning events.  I applied and got the job!  I've been at the CGSA now for just over 22 years.  Various duties have changed over the years, but still involved with events.  And it is still one of my favourite things to do.

What is your proudest professional accomplishment to date?

Getting my CMP.  I just recertified and can't believe it's been 15 years. 

What is the most memorable event you have planned, or client experience
you have had? 

Sounds cliche but every event I've planned has been memorable.  They've all taught me something.  I think back to our first conference I ever planned on my own and man, I don't think I slept for a month before.  I'm kind of feeling that way again, as I'm planning our first virtual event. 

What advice would you give to someone just coming into the industry? 

Keep an open mind to learn and experience something new.  Listen to those who are a bit more experienced, you could learn something from them.

What are some things you do to keep interested, updated and inspired?

I've truly enjoyed some of the education this year that has allowed for information sharing between planners and suppliers.  Sitting in and listening to those stories and advice have been invaluable as we plan our first virtual event. 

Kathryn Wood, CMP

Chief Operating Officer
Canadian Golf Superintendents Association
Phone - 416-626-8873, ext 23
Email - kwood@golfsupers.com
Twitter - @cgsaeducation