Circa 1994
Hello, I’m Kendall Marquardt.
With a family legacy deeply rooted in golf, my journey began with my great-grandfather's involvement in establishing a local golf course. My father continued the legacy as the greens chairman, leading course improvement initiatives. While I initially pursued a degree in Management of Computer Systems, my passion for golf course management took center stage.
A pivotal moment redirected my focus to Soil Science, specializing in Turfgrass Management. Embracing technology, I developed a simple database for a Madison, WI course, sparking my drive to solve golf course management challenges through innovation. In 1988, as an assistant superintendent, I used spreadsheets for budgeting, setting the stage for my continuous exploration of technology's potential.
Becoming a Certified Golf Course Superintendent in 1996, I earned a reputation as a forward-thinker, attending GCSAA seminars and contributing to the industry. Teaching Turf and Lawn Management briefly, I honed skills beneficial both on and off the course. As a superintendent, I orchestrated projects, from a $900,000 course improvement plan in the late '90s to navigating the challenges post-2008 crash.
Consulting for DryJect and working in bareground maintenance expanded my horizons, informing my return to golf course management. Adapting to evolving technology, including drones, I discovered new perspectives in addressing golf course challenges. Today, I am enthusiastic about leveraging technology to benefit golf course stakeholders—owners, architects, builders, researchers, and fellow superintendents. Excited to explore unique use-cases, I look forward to contributing to this special industry's continued advancement.