www.stma.org January 2016 | SportsTurf 31
We have a genuine team environment and if there is something
that needs immediate attention, we can turn-on-a-dime and
tackle it together. We are all crossed trained and that is impor-
tant. I am a notorious list keeper and calendar scheduler. These
help keep me on track.
SPORTSTURF: What are the most important issues fac-
ing your members in the next few years and how is the STMA
approaching those issues?
HECK: Right now, there are five issues that keep me up at night!
First, the rapid and increasing pace of technological change
makes it harder for our members to keep up. STMA is working
on streamlining all of our continuing education offerings. We're
planning an STMA app that will bring information to members
when and where they need it. Our website is evolving to a more
user friendly and responsive environment; we are pushing out
technical information via social media; and at our physical con-
ference each year, we have sessions on technology to help our
membership become more effective.
Second, information is so electronically available that associa-
tions are no longer the only source for its membership. That can
have huge ramifications for retention and growth. We are coun-
tering this trend by making member connectivity an extremely
vital component of membership. A member might be able to
Google information, but members connecting with members on
real world solutions provide the highest value and that's where
STMA is focused on making a difference.
My third concern is about students: enrollment in turfgrass
The STMA Headquarters staff takes in a game at Royals Stadium in Kansas City.
From L to R: Kim Heck, Leah Craig, Nora Dunnaway, and Eric Maydew. Kristen Althouse
telecommutes and was not at the game.
