Husqvarna has become the first major industry body in the UK to sign up as a Friend of First Green, reinforcing the robotic mowing manufacturer’s commitment to supporting the future of the golf industry through education and innovation. 

Delivered by BIGGA, First Green is an outreach initiative designed to introduce young people to careers in greenkeeping and golf course management, using golf courses as outdoor classrooms to inspire interest in science, technology, engineering, maths and environmental stewardship. 

Since launching in the UK in 2022, First Green has continued to build momentum across the industry, with 27 events delivered to almost 1,000 students involving 90 BIGGA members across the UK and Ireland. The programme supports both primary and secondary school engagement, helping clubs connect with local communities while showcasing the evolving role of modern turf management. 

In becoming a Friend of First Green, Husqvarna will support the programme’s continued growth and help introduce more young people to the opportunities available within an industry increasingly shaped by technology and innovation. 

“Supporting the future of the golf industry means helping inspire and educate the next generation about the opportunities available within modern golf course management,” said Jonathan Snowball, Husqvarna UK’s Head of Business Unit Professional. “First Green is playing an important role in introducing young people to the science, technology and innovation behind the industry, while helping challenge perceptions around what a career in greenkeeping can look like.” 

Through its autonomous mowing solutions and continued investment in turf care technology, Husqvarna is helping golf facilities explore new approaches to long-term maintenance. Working directly with golf facilities, tournament venues and industry bodies across Europe to demonstrate how robotic technology can support high-quality playing conditions while helping golf facilities improve operational efficiency. 

“It has been fantastic to see First Green continue to grow across the UK, helping introduce more young people to the world of modern golf course management,” said Jenny Bledge, BIGGA Workforce Project Manager. “Showcasing the science, technology and innovation behind the industry is a key part of the programme, and Husqvarna’s support is particularly valuable as robotics and autonomous technology start to play an increasingly important role in the future of greenkeeping.” 

First Green continues to expand across the UK and Ireland, helping golf facilities connect with schools and local communities through hands-on learning experiences focused on ecology, machinery, technology and land management. 

Husqvarna will be actively supporting First Green events across the UK over the coming 12 months and is keen to hear from any golf facility planning to host a session.