In our Beyond The Drop Q&A series, we bring you brief interviews with some of the minds driving innovation at Aquatrols. We speak to a wide variety of folks who work here at Aquatrols, exploring topics from research, to conservation, to business.
Today we are featuring an interview with Robert Wilson, who is our Southwest Territory Manager for the U.S. From his extensive background within the turf industry to his love for golf, Robert discusses what brought him to Aquatrols and how his passion for the industry has evolved.
What was your first position within the golf industry? Why is golf special to you?
My first position in golf was being a caddy for the local country club I grew up near in Cincinnati, OH when I was in 8th grade. That’s where I grew to love the game. I learned about the game by caddying and I picked up playing the game that same year. The mow lines in the fairways got me interested in the maintenance side. I always loved mowing grass.
How has your prior experience in the golf industry helped you in your current position?
Being able to build relationships over the years and grow a great network of individuals within the turf industry has helped me develop. It’s a nice confidence builder to help me succeed in my current role.
What drew you to become a part of the Aquatrols team?
I’ve known about Aquatrols for years. I knew they had a strong reputation in the golf industry and I wanted to be a part of something special.
What are the biggest challenges superintendents face in your territory? How have you been able to help them find solutions?
I think the biggest challenge superintendents have, even with the super high-end clubs, is choosing the right product for them based off the budget allowed. If they believe in a product, they will find a way to work it in, however, I think the challenge of budgets is always there. Another challenge superintendents have faced recently is flooding. A lot of courses have been in constant recovery mode the past two years. Which means play is down and financials are hurt even more. The best way I can help them find solutions is to find out exactly what they’re dealing with on the course. They may have been using a certain product for years, but when the situation changes they need to adjust. It also helps that Aquatrols’ offers products for all budgets.
How has Aquatrols helped you grow in your position and within the turf industry?
I learn something from our experienced colleagues every day it seems. Since I cover a territory with multiple weather and seasonal patterns, many situations come up that others may have already faced. I’ve grown a lot from simply asking questions and bouncing ideas off co-workers.
There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes in your position. What are some things that most customers don’t realize you can help them with or do for them?
I’m passionate about customer service. Whether it’s the end user or our channel partners, I’m here to support in any way I can. The customer comes first. I’m not here just to sell them something. I want to be a solution finder for them and I believe my colleagues feel the same.
What is the one thing about the Aquatrols brand and products that you always want new or potential customers to know?
I want them to know that our Aquatrols territory managers and staff are always available to help in any way that they need. Whether it’s answering questions about our products, giving advice on how to treat a specific concern on their turf or simply figuring out a program that works best for them. I also always show my customers the performance consistency that they can get with our products and believe that reason is why so many superintendents choose Aquatrols products.
To learn more about the Aquatrols’ brand and vision, visit our “About Us” page at www.aquatrols.com/about
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