#ThankASuper Spotlight Series: Adam Wiles

At KemperSports, we know that the beauty and playability of golf courses and the overall golf experience wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and dedication of superintendents and their maintenance teams. In honor of International “Thank A Golf Course Superintendent Day,” we’re proud to once again present our #ThankASuper Spotlight Series—a celebration of the hardworking men and women who care for our courses and ensure our guests enjoy the opportunity to play the game they love.

Adam Wiles
Superintendent
The Glen Club (Glenview, IL)

# of years worked at current course: Five years
Total years worked in the industry: 23 years

How did you get into the golf maintenance industry?
I loved the game of golf and started working on a course in high school and was hooked immediately.

What’s your favorite part of the job?
Morning sunrises, camaraderie with our staff and the satisfaction of our work being seen and enjoyed by others.

What’s the most misunderstood part of the job?
What we actually do and all that goes into maintaining golf courses.

What advice would you give to your younger self or younger superintendents just starting out?
Be patient and network yourself.

What are a few accomplishments you are most proud of at your course/in your career? Hosting the Korn Ferry Tour’s NV5 Invitational for five straight years and fostering a positive and enjoyable work environment for our team.

This past year, have you and your team worked/completed any exciting construction/renovation projects? If so, what was your team responsible for and how will it enhance the golf course/facility?
We underwent an extensive bunker renovation and installed Better Billy Bunkers, which keeps the bunkers playable after rainstorms. This also allows my team to concentrate on other detail work, instead of fixing bunkers daily.

What insight do you have about the future of the industry? Are there any innovative practices you’re helping lead to benefit the environment/your facility?
Autonomous mowers are the future.

What are some of the most helpful forward-thinking practices that have benefitted your facility?
Proactive communication on cultural practice or projects. This helps members understand why and how these projects are completed and saves a lot of headaches and questions.

What does the game of golf mean to you and how has that helped fuel the passion you have for your career?
I’m able to enjoy the game with anyone and its microcosm of life.