The week of the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club began with more than championship preparations and world-class golf — it began with opportunity.
Thanks to the leadership of the PGA of America, 50 participants from First Tee – Greater Philadelphia took part in a special Career Exploration Day designed to introduce young people to the wide range of career opportunities available throughout the golf industry.
For our participants, the experience was about much more than watching the world’s best golfers compete. It was an opportunity to explore future career pathways and see firsthand how the skills they are developing through First Tee — confidence, communication, leadership, perseverance, and teamwork — can translate into meaningful opportunities beyond the golf course.
Throughout the day, students rotated through a series of interactive sessions led by professionals working behind the scenes at one of golf’s biggest championships.
At the Media Center, students learned how technology supports every aspect of a major sporting event. Jennifer McDermott, Director of Technology Services, and John Colvin, Product Manager of Technology Services, shared how innovation, connectivity, and problem-solving help power the championship experience for players, media, staff, and fans around the world.
Inside the PGA Merchandise Shops operation, students explored careers in merchandising, retail management, and golf operations with Jeff Kiddie, PGA Head Golf Professional at Aronimink Golf Club. From inventory management and customer service to tournament preparation, participants gained insight into the business side of the game that many spectators never see.
On the Aronimink practice green, Michelle Penney, Principal Engineer at TaylorMade Golf, introduced students to the world of equipment design and engineering. Participants discovered how science, creativity, and technology come together to develop the clubs used by the best players in the world.
The day concluded beside the grandstand overlooking the iconic 18th green, where Jackie Endsley, 2026 PGA Championship Director, and Tyler Curtis, 2026 PGA Championship Operations Manager, shared what it takes to stage a major championship. Students learned about event operations, logistics, project management, teamwork, and leadership on one of golf’s biggest stages.
For many participants, Career Exploration Day expanded their understanding of what a future in golf can look like. While some aspire to compete at a high level, others left inspired by careers in technology, engineering, communications, hospitality, event management, operations, and business.
Experiences like Career Exploration Day demonstrate that golf can be a gateway to so much more than the game itself. Through First Tee, young people are building the skills, confidence, and relationships that help prepare them for success in school, careers, and life.
We are incredibly grateful to the PGA of America, Aronimink Golf Club, and every presenter who invested their time and expertise in our participants. By providing opportunities like these, they are helping young people envision what’s possible and discover new pathways for their future.
