Episode 068
068 I Turf, Tech, and Taking Risks: Leadership Lessons with Jason VanBuskirk
with Jason VanBuskirk
Turf, Tech, and Taking Risks: Leadership Lessons with Jason VanBuskirk
On this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with Jason VanBuskirk—a golf course superintendent turned tech entrepreneur—whose journey from turfgrass to tech has reshaped how modern superintendents think about efficiency, data, and innovation.
Jason shares how his frustrations managing day-to-day operations at Stowe Acres Country Club led him to build a digital solution—TurfCloud—which ultimately evolved into a foundational piece of GreenSight’s cutting-edge platform. Today, GreenSight combines drone imagery, soil sensors, autonomous mowing, and job tracking into one integrated system that’s redefining the superintendent’s toolbox.
From navigating early startup chaos to forming key partnerships with companies like Husqvarna and Harold’s, Jason offers sharp insights for superintendents, innovators, and anyone looking to challenge the status quo.
Whether you’re curious about robotics, seeking smarter labor solutions, or just wondering what it takes to turn an idea into an industry-shaping company—this conversation delivers real lessons from someone who’s walked the fairway and paved a new path.
What you’ll learn in this episode
- From Superintendent to Innovator: Jason’s journey from Stowe Acres to launching TurfCloud and ultimately joining GreenSight as VP of Business Development.
- GreenSight’s Tech Stack: Drones, job boards, soil sensors, autonomous mowers—an all-in-one dashboard for superintendents.
- Autonomous Mowing is Here: Early adopters are seeing labor savings, consistent course conditions, and growing interest among members.
- Align with the Right People: Success in both turf and tech hinges on relationships—with your team, your mentors, and your family.
- Entrepreneurship Mindset: Don’t live in the “what ifs.” If you’ve got a good idea, go for it.
Links mentioned in this episode:
GreenSight: https://www.greensightag.com/
Jason VanBuskirk (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-vanbuskirk/
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Who is Tyler Bloom?
Tyler Bloom is the leading expert on workforce development in the golf and turfgrass industry. He has worked with dozens of leading golf and sports companies in the United States including The PGA of America, Top 100 golf courses, public, municipal to professional sports teams, universities, and national historic landmarks.