Arthur brings industry expertise to new turfgrass program at WC
Talking shop about grass, plant diseases and turf conditions may not be everyone’s
idea of a riveting conversation, but Dr. Erin Arthur knows better.
Weatherford College’s newest instructor is taking the lead on one of the new programs launching at the college this Fall, an associate degree in golf and sports turf management. She knows that turfgrass management is a dynamic field that offers rewarding careers, hands-on work and opportunities around the world.
“I know that learning about how grass grows may sound as exciting as watching paint dry to some,” Arthur said. “But here at WC, we have the unique opportunity to teach students right on the golf course at Canyon West.”
With a Ph.D. in plant pathology from Texas A&M University and expertise in turfgrass, plant diseases and horticulture, Arthur is helping build a program designed to prepare students for careers in one of the country's growing outdoor industries.
“I’ve always had a passion for making education accessible to anyone who wants to learn,” Arthur said. “I think WC has done a great job doing just that. I was drawn to WC because of their efforts in keeping education accessible while maintaining small class sizes and quality instruction. I also appreciate their involvement in the community and service to those in need.”
And Arthur is already teaching the local community through a weekly lawn and garden radio show on The Coyote where she shares practical gardening advice with listeners. Check out the podcast on The Coyote app or via the WC website.
Back in the classroom, the new two-year associate degree equips students with the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to manage natural and synthetic turf at golf courses, sports fields, parks and recreational facilities. Graduates will be prepared for careers in turf maintenance, irrigation, landscape equipment maintenance and sports field operations.
“I am excited for all of the hands-on experiences our students will have to learn about the complex world of grass. The ever-changing environment here in Texas ensures there is never a dull day as a turfgrass manager.”
According to industry projections, demand for grounds maintenance and turf management professionals is expected to continue growing as communities, universities, athletic facilities and golf courses invest in maintaining high-quality outdoor spaces. The field offers pathways into golf course management, sports turf supervision, irrigation, landscaping, equipment maintenance, research and industry sales.
“There are many avenues for graduates of this program,” Arthur said. “Some examples are working on golf courses around the world, city parks, small business landscaping, research, sales and even professional stadiums. During the recent World Cup, turf managers from across North America transformed stadiums into FIFA-approved soccer pitches.”
In addition to the associate degree, students can earn a golf turf maintenance technician certificate or a sports turf technician certificate. These programs provide entry-level and intermediate training while serving as stepping-stones toward the AAS degree.
“The turfgrass industry is an amazing field full of opportunities for people who love being outside and working on physical projects,” Arthur said. “These jobs are highly rewarding as you can see that the grass really is greener where you water it.”
Students interested in building a career in golf course operations, sports field management, landscaping or turfgrass science can learn more about the golf and sports turf Management program and enrollment opportunities by visiting wc.edu or contacting Arthur at earthur@wc.edu.