Assistant Seminar

Assistant Seminar
Thursday, February 26, 2026
Midwest Golf House
11855 Archer Avenue
Lemont, IL

Cost for Day $35

Agenda:
8:00 am Check In/Coffee and Rolls
8:30 am “Punch Up Your Elevator Pitch,” Jan Kostner
9:45 am Break
10:00 am “Punch Up Your Elevator Pitch,” Jan Kostner
10:30 am “Career Growth at Every Level: The Modern Assistant’s Path”, A Panel Discussion
12:00 pm Lunch and Conclusion

Punch up Your Elevator Pitch – An Interactive Workshop

Networking is essential for career growth, yet most of us were never taught how to make meaningful connections that led to real problem solving and support. This session, led by Jan Kostner, an expert in networking and making connections, will help you gain the confidence to network effectively in all aspects of your work and personal life.

Jan will walk the attendees through effective and proven strategies like the “elevator pitch” is an essential professional tool—a tool that should be kept razor sharp and as ready to deploy as a handshake and a smile—and yet, most professionals are woefully bad at introducing themselves.

Have you ever attended a networking meeting where participants were asked to offer round-the-room introductions? As each guest steps up to speak, time slows down. The seconds ooze by like honey over a glacier as each attendee rambles on about what they do, how long they’ve been doing it, who they’ve done it for and … sorry … where was I?

How will you share a compelling value story before your elevator pitch winds up in the basement? You’ve got 30 seconds at best … and that’s only if your opening lines attract enough attention to keep your audience listening for more than five.

Career Growth at Every Level: The Modern Assistant’s Path

This panel brings together superintendents and assistants at different stages of their careers to discuss what growth really looks like in today’s industry. From your first assistant role to preparing for a superintendent interview, we’ll cover leadership development, professional positioning, and timing your next move. Panelists will share real experiences, lessons learned, and practical advice for standing out in a competitive field. Designed for assistants at every level, this discussion will provide clarity, direction, and actionable steps for your next phase.

Panelists include: Craig Smith, Chicago Golf Club, Jarrett Kramer, Bob O’Link Golf Club, Jack Porter, Riverside Golf Club, Mitch Linnerud, Midlothian Country Club.