SALTEX
Building talent: more than just awards
When it comes to nurturing and supporting the next generation of grounds people, 35 under 35 is not our only initiative in this space and sits proudly alongside our longer-standing initiatives such as GMA NextGen and Schools Into Stadia. GMA NextGen acts as a youth ambassador network, bringing energy and fresh ideas to GMA’ s work- whilst Schools Into Stadia opens doors for young people to experience behind-thescenes access to major venues and spark interest in the profession.
In 2025, for example, our Schools Into Stadia programme held its first cricket edition at Lord’ s, letting school students participate in turf preparation and hear firsthand from grounds professionals about career journeys and technical skills. This kind of engagement, reaching young minds where they are, underpins the pipeline of future talent that 35 under 35 aims to fortify.
Bringing it to SALTEX
This edition of GKJ is dedicated to SALTEX, and rightfully so: SALTEX is not only our flagship industry exhibition, it is also a powerful learning and networking hub. Through Learning LIVE, the GMA delivers an annual, free education programme offering CPD-accredited sessions across site preparation, turf science, sustainability, infrastructure and more.
This year, GMA NextGen will step into the spotlight within Learning LIVE with dedicated sessions on diversity, youth engagement and the pathways into our industry- a perfect match for the momentum we aim to build through 35 under 35.
What’ s more, winners of 35 under 35 will have exclusive opportunities during SALTEX to engage with senior industry figures and further extend their networks. This makes SALTEX a stage for the voices and futures of our industry. training, visibility, opportunities and advocacy.
To the readers of Groundskeeping Journal, I invite you to watch and engage: read their profiles, invite them to your sites, support their development, and- if you are under 35 or know someone who is-consider nominating the next cohort. The deadline and process for next year will be announced soon via GMA channels.
In this SALTEX issue, our industry celebrates innovation, sustainability, performance, and above all, people. With the 35 under 35 initiative, we begin a new chapter: one where we intentionally lift up the young leaders who will carry our profession forward. I’ m proud, excited and very optimistic about what lies ahead.
For more information on GMA’ s 35 under 35 programme, visit https:// www. thegma. org. uk / what / support-the-sector / 35-under-35 /
By combining programmes that engage at different levels, from awareness and aspiration( Schools Into Stadia) to peer networks( GMA NextGen) and professional recognition( 35 under 35), we aim to create a holistic ecosystem for growing the next generation of grounds professionals.
Looking forward
Our inaugural 35 under 35 cohort has already confirmed what many have long believed: the next generation of grounds professionals will combine creativity, leadership and fresh perspectives. As the GMA, our role is to support them- through
8 GroundskeepingJournal. co. uk | November / December 2025