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NE-SFMA Member Spotlight: Robin Wilson
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Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. This episode spotlights New England Sports Field Management Association member Robin Wilson – Grounds Manager for Windham School District in Windham, New Hampshire.
This Q and A is read from New England Blade magazine.
How did you get your start in the sports field industry?
I kind of fell into the industry. In my early 20s, I owned a bakery in Pennsylvania, but after some difficult life events, my brother encouraged me to move to New Hampshire to be closer to family. It was one of the only times I’ve listened to him, and it turned out to be a pivotal decision!
I returned to college and took a job at a local high school mowing and painting athletic fields. Before long, I got “bit by the turf bug.” What started as a job became a lifelong career and an unexpected passion.
Where did you go from there?
After graduating, I continued managing the high school’s athletic fields and grounds for 18 years. During that time, I worked with some wonderful people, including Athletic Director Bill Raycraft. When he moved to another district, he encouraged me to apply for the Grounds Manager position in Windham, NH. I took a chance and got the job! I’ve now spent 10 years managing more than 26 acres of grounds and athletic fields for the Windham School District.
Who was your mentor when you were first starting out, and why?
I owe so much to Kim Britton, Grounds Supervisor at St. Anselm College. Twenty-six years ago, Kim took me under her wing and has remained a mentor, friend, and constant source of support. She introduced me to incredible industry professionals, including Paul Carey, who has also been instrumental in my growth.
Paul eventually introduced us to Kelly Lynch, opening the door to volunteering with the Women in Turf team and at the Little League Softball World Series. Both experiences have been life-changing, connecting me with passionate people eager to share their knowledge and showcase our industry’s opportunities.
What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received?
Take pictures! I take pictures ALL the time. They’re invaluable for documenting progress, showing how fields evolve, and communicating accomplishments. They’re also helpful when seeking advice from turf colleagues. Sometimes sending a few pictures and asking, “What do you think is going on here?” is the best way to learn. Of course, 20 years ago, before we had computers in our pockets, things were a little different!
What is the next “gamechanger” you see on the horizon for the sports turf industry?
The Women in Turf movement! More women are entering our industry, becoming successful leaders and role models. I’m proud to be part of this movement and excited about its impact.
Through social media, volunteering, mentoring, and sharing experiences, women are highlighting the opportunities in sports turf. But it’s bigger than women alone. Everyone who shares knowledge, encourages newcomers, and gets involved helps make our profession stronger and more welcoming.
Bringing new people into the industry expands our talent pool, introduces fresh perspectives, and demonstrates that sports turf is a rewarding career, not just a job. I’m excited to see what the next generation accomplishes!
What’s your favorite or most useful equipment, product, and technology?
Equipment: John Deere 3046 with 60″ 1st Products Aeravator
Products: Pure Seed Products
Technology: Anything with GPS!
What advice would you share with people starting out in sports field management?
I have a few rules to live by, some passed along to me and others learned through experience.
First, don’t forget to breathe. This industry is rewarding but demanding, with long days, unpredictable weather, tight deadlines, and unexpected challenges. You don’t have to know everything immediately.
Second, always be willing to learn. Ask questions, listen, and never be afraid to admit you don’t know something. Some of the best lessons come from those working alongside you.
Third, take pride in your work. What we do directly impacts athletes, students, schools, and communities. Even the little things matter.
Finally, appreciate how far you’ve come. Be open to opportunities, support others, and remember that mistakes aren’t the end of the world. Some of my greatest growth has come from difficult situations.
Can you share a bit about your family life and what you enjoy doing in your free time?
My family’s love and support mean everything. My wife and I have four adult children, and I have nine siblings, so life is busy! I enjoy fly fishing, traveling with family and friends, getting back into golf, and woodworking. There’s always a project happening at our home!
What have you enjoyed most about being a NE-SFMA member?
Building relationships. The connections I’ve made through NE-SFMA have become lifelong friendships, mentorships, and professional partnerships. Having people who understand the challenges and rewards of our work is invaluable.
I especially appreciate the lack of ego in this industry. People genuinely want to share knowledge and help each other succeed. Whether you’re just starting out or have decades of experience, everyone has something to contribute and something to learn.
NE-SFMA is more than a professional organization. It’s a community that cares about the profession and each other. That camaraderie is what I value most.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with fellow NE-SFMA members?
I’d like to thank everyone who has volunteered for NE-SFMA over the past 36 years, from board and committee members to those working quietly behind the scenes. This organization thrives because people generously give their time and energy.
Special thanks to Vickie Wallace and Mary Owen, the “OG Women,” and to Virginia Wood and Charissa Sharkey for everything they do behind the scenes.
I’m also thankful to those who have helped throughout my career. I certainly wouldn’t have earned an SFMA Field of the Year award without the guidance, support, and hard work of so many people. Kim Britton, Paul Carey, Justin Santos, Brian Lucini, and countless colleagues have all contributed to my journey.
I’m incredibly grateful for the people and relationships this industry has brought into my life. That, more than anything, is what makes this industry so special.
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