#ThankASuper Spotlight Series: Gilberto Aguilera

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.

Gilberto Aguilera
Superintendent
Vernon Hills Golf Course (Vernon Hills, IL)

# of years worked at current course: 26 years
Total years worked in the industry: 26 years

How did you get into the golf maintenance industry?
I had a friend who worked at Royal Meadows and when I showed an interest in golf maintenance, he referred me to Vernon Hills.I have worked here ever since then.

What’s your favorite part of the job?
I love working with the irrigation systems, making sure that all of the systems are operating properly and the correct amount of water is being dispensed at all times.

What’s the most misunderstood part of the job?
I think the public does not understand how complicated it is to keep a golf course in good shape.

What advice would you give to your younger self or younger superintendents just starting out?
I would tell someone younger that if you like to work outdoors and you like to work with your hands, course maintenance is a great job.

What are a few accomplishments you are most proud of at your course/in your career?
Over the years I have built new tee boxes and reworked bunkers. Getting those projects just right was very satisfying to me.

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?
In the last year, we built a wonderful nine-hole putting green. Working with the company that built it and then taking over the maintenance of “MY BABY” has been very important to me and taught me a lot about building new greens.

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?
I believe the change in weather patterns may cause all the course maintenance to think about making adjustments.

What are some of the most helpful forward-thinking practices that have benefitted your facility?
Again, I feel that adjusting to climate change may become the next major challenge to our industry.

What does the game of golf mean to you and how has that helped fuel the passion you have for your career?
Before I came to Vernon Hills I had never played golf. Now, I love the game!