The Professional Grounds Management Society has announced that Kelly Blair of Pittsboro, N.C., has become the 137th grounds management professional to successfully complete its certified grounds manager program. Blair is a groundskeeper for the town of Carrboro, N.C.
Blair wanted to become a CGM because he believes "it behooves both grounds managers and staff to set challenging career goals for themselves, especially in our modern economy," he said. "In my opinion, the CGM certification is a perfect example of an obtainable goal that both grounds managers and aspiring grounds managers can use to boost their job proficiency while conveying a high level of dedication to their employers and to their customers."
After completing the two-part exam process, Blair reflected on his thoughts about the program. "The CGM program helped me to closely examine the methodology behind grounds management. The entire testing process not only helped to reinforce skills that I already had, it led me to learn new skills, which I needed in order to be more effective in my job. In a nutshell, the CGM program was very satisfying and did a lot to boost my self-confidence."
Blair shared some advice for aspiring CGM’s, "Above all else, share your CGM certification
experience with your superiors and with your staff members. It is a great help when you have people that want to see you succeed in achieving your goals."
Read a full interview with Blair at www.pgms.org/2012Blair.htm. Those achieving the CGM
professional designation must have first accomplished a set level of education and on-the-job experience and then successfully complete a two-part examination process administered by PGMS.
