Kelly Gilley - Member Spotlight

Southern Texas PGA • September 10, 2021

Kelly Gilley, PGA

Western Region Team Leader | PGA Career Services

Proudly serving the Northern & Southern Texas PGA Sections as Career Consultant


How would you describe the state of the industry today? 
The industry is evolving! We all have to evolve and grow and change with it.

What changes/improvements have you seen in the workplace since you’ve started?
Employers are beginning to understand the importance of work/life balance and wages that reflect what is happening in other industries. We have to continue to improve in both areas to attract top talent.


What is the best piece of advice you could give for people in the industry or those trying to get in the industry?
Look out your window and, if possible, get outside to soak up why the golf industry is so incredibly special. Our office is totally different than the one most people walk into each day. There is a certain magic to that--don't forget it!


What is the PGA of America doing that is going to benefit the PGA member?
PGA of America has a wide variety of tools and programs that support the member, with the Compensation Profile Survey being one of those I feel strongly about. Dozens of customized reports have been prepared for Members in our Section over the last year that have made a big difference in a Member being able to negotiate their compensation. But we need more Members and Associates to complete it. It becomes important when it impacts you and your family, and that is where we truly want to be able to help.


The PGA of America has a system they use called Execu|Search. Can you share more about what that is?
Execu|Search is a brand under the PGA of America's Career Services.  Our goal is to be the most trusted professional resource for employers seeking a new leader for their golf operation, overall facility, instructional program, etc. This is a fee based service where we provide support for every step of the recruitment, marketing, administrative and communication functions of the hiring process. When we are involved to this level, we can better serve our Members by helping make the role as good as it can be from a competitive standpoint, but we can also serve the employer and become lifelong partners to support their needs going forward.

What benefits or rewards come from working as a career consultant and helping PGA Professionals find their place in the industry?
Every day I am grateful for the opportunity to serve a group of PGA Members and Associates I feel are the best in the country. The greatest reward is in helping professionals advance their career in a way that is truly life-changing for them and for their family. There is no greater reward than that feeling.

How do you see the industry evolving in the next five years?
I see compensation trending up based on supply and demand. I see professionals getting creative with staffing, hours of operation, and new ways to serve their customers, members and guests. The creative minds in our industry have already started making monumental changes. We will all benefit by learning from them as they share best practices.

What is your favorite part about working with the Southern Texas PGA?
My time with Southern Texas PGA led to some phenomenal relationships that I hold very dear. I still feel like a part of the staff at the STPGA and always look forward to events where we get to see our professionals. While my background is not in tournaments, I absolutely love the atmosphere at an STPGA tournament! Thomas, Scott and the team always welcome me to the events and create ways for me to get to know Members and Associates better while I am there.

What are five words that best describe you?
Optimistic, loyal, committed, caring and creative

What is your favorite golf memory?
Wow, I am blessed to have a lot of amazing memories. Getting to play Augusta National at age 13 is probably top of list; having my brother on the bag caddying for me in the 1993 US Women's Am and making it to the quarterfinals is second.

If you could give a piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Don't be so hard on yourself. Failure is part of life and makes us all better if we learn from it and move forward.

What is your favorite part about working in the golf industry?
Without a doubt, the people. Amazing, quality people who share a love for something in such a way that brings us together.

What would be your go to song at karaoke?
Don't Stop Believin by Journey

What is your personal motto?
Every day is a new chance to get better

By Southern Texas PGA January 28, 2026
The Texas Golf Hall of Fame is now accepting nominations for the Class of 2026. Golf fans, industry professionals, and the public are invited to nominate individuals who have made a lasting impact on the game of golf in Texas by February 18, 2026. Nominations may be submitted online at https://www.texasgolfhof.org/nominations . As the Guardians of the Game in Texas, the Texas Golf Hall of Fame works to preserve, honor, and celebrate the state’s rich golf history while inspiring future generations of Texas golfers through recognition across six nomination categories. Today, the Hall of Fame is home to 156 distinguished members, including 25 who are also enshrined in the World Golf Hall of Fame, along with 15 historic Texas golf courses that have played a significant role in shaping the game. Beyond induction honors, the Texas Golf Hall of Fame is committed to education, access, and long-term legacy through innovative programming. This includes a fully accessible digital museum, a mobile museum that brings Texas golf history directly to communities across the state, and a newly established Endowment that is gaining strong support and will help ensure preservation efforts, youth initiatives, and future programming for generations to come. The Class of 2026 will be formally inducted during the Texas Golf Hall of Fame Induction Celebration on October 19, 2026, at the San Antonio Country Club. This event brings together leaders, legends, and supporters of the game to celebrate the individuals and institutions that define Texas golf. The Texas Golf Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) organization. For nomination criteria and submission details, visit https://www.texasgolfhof.org/nominations . Media Contact Alli Jarrett Executive Director Texas Golf Hall of Fame alli@texasgolfhof.org texasgolfhof.org
By Southern Texas PGA January 27, 2026
MATTHEW BOUNDY, PGA – A PATH BUILT ON PEOPLE, FAMILY & GOLF
By Southern Texas PGA January 12, 2026
On behalf of your Board of Directors, the STPGA would like to make you aware of a program that will commence on January 1, 2026 for all Level 1 Associates. Starting in 2026, the STPGA will be running virtual Associate Orientations for all Associates who are either in Level 1 or joined the program after January 1, 2026. The goal of the Orientation will be to educate you on the STPGA, create a networking opportunity, but most importantly, motivate you about the industry and the PGA of America Membership. The STPGA will run 11 of these throughout the year. During the Orientation, all attendees must satisfy the requirements below to receive credit for attendance: · Join the Google Meet within five (5) minutes of the scheduled start time · Have their camera on for the entirety of the presentation · Introduce themselves during the introduction portion of the Orientation PGA of America Level 1 Associates must complete this orientation prior to participating in any Southern Texas PGA Tournament or Social Function starting in 2026. We wanted to start to make you aware of this now so that you are prepared come 2026. The STPGA will be having at least 2 of these orientations in March for any Level 1 Associate already in the program and has not advanced to Level 2, so that you can still participate in all events in 2026! Please note: This policy begins with the Pro-Pro Champ in March. For any event in January and February, Level 1 Associates can participate without attending an orientation, as our first orientation isn't until March. Click here for the full outline of the program, view all eleven dates that an orientation will be hosted, and the landing page with more information accessible to you. The STPGA continues to look for ways to better our association, engage with the next PGA Member, and showcase the value of being a PGA Member. Please let us know if you have any questions and thank you in advance for your support.
By Sarah Lummus December 19, 2025
Our PGA REACH Southern Texas 2025 Impact Report At PGA REACH Southern Texas, golf is more than a game—it is a vehicle for opportunity, connection, and lasting impact. Guided by a commitment to serve our community, we work to strengthen our Foundation while bringing greater visibility to the life-changing stories behind our four core pillars: Junior Golf, College Scholarships, PGA HOPE, and Employment Opportunities. Together, these pillars reflect our mission to inspire the next generation, support educational achievement, empower military Veterans, and open doors to meaningful careers within the golf industry. We are proud to share our 2025 Impact Report, which captures the progress, growth, and momentum of the past year. Inside, you’ll find the milestones made possible through collaboration, generosity, and a shared belief in the power of golf to do good. As we continue to broaden our reach and deepen our impact, we invite you to celebrate the individuals, partnerships, and stories that define PGA REACH Southern Texas—and the lives forever changed along the way. And lastly, thank you. Thank you for your support and belief in what we are doing.
By Southern Texas PGA December 16, 2025
STPGA Q4 UPDATE Year-End Review and 2026 Strategic Focus Dear STPGA Members and Associates, With the close of 2025, your Board of Directors convened its final meeting of the year yesterday at the STPGA office. I am pleased to provide an update on the key discussions and our forward-looking agenda. Year in Review: Celebrating Our Achievements I want to acknowledge the outstanding work completed this past year. I feel very positive about the success of our efforts in several critical areas, including: Board Orientation: We implemented a comprehensive board orientation that clarified roles, responsibilities, and the STPGA operational structure. Associate Development and Mentoring: We strengthened our support through the new onboarding program, Pro-Associate events, and the Associate Orientation program. Chapter Engagement: Our focus on connectivity will launch two new Chapter events in 2026. Member Communication: The Member Outreach Program successfully enabled board members to connect with our membership before each meeting. Defining Our Future: Strategic Plan Refresh We completed a comprehensive review of our Strategic Plan, which has been a valuable tool for guiding our initiatives. The review culminated in the development of our Strategic Pillars . These pillars now serve as the foundation, defining the core areas of focus that will drive all annual planning and goal setting for the STPGA. Going forward, the board will collaborate with the staff to establish specific, measurable annual objectives aligned with these pillars. The new Strategic Pillars will be formally shared with you at the upcoming 2026 Education Summit and Annual Meeting. Event Reminder: Education Summit and Annual Meeting We have prepared an exceptional agenda for the 2026 Education Summit and Annual Meeting. Please ensure you save the dates: February 9-10, 2026, at the Westin San Antonio North. Registration will open on Tuesday, January 6th, 2026, at 9:00 AM. We also look forward to celebrating professional excellence at our Annual Awards Banquet. Please click here to reserve your room at the exclusive discounted rate for our STPGA Members. I am deeply honored to serve as your President. Please feel free to reach out to me with any thoughts or suggestions—I am always available. Wishing you and yours a safe and happy holiday season and a prosperous 2026.
By Southern Texas PGA December 10, 2025
The Southern Texas PGA is built on the stories that shape our year: the victories, the breakthroughs, the friendships, and the unforgettable snapshots that remind us why we love this game. Moments that Matter is our look back at the highlights that defined 2025, celebrating the people who lifted our Section, inspired our juniors, and moved our community forward one swing at a time. Click below to read the full stories. Chad Donegan Receives President's Award Casey Russell 2x Section Champ Reliving the History at the 45th Uresti Defends at Eagle Pointe Texas Golf Day at the Capitol Team STPGA Wins 9th Levy Cup First Community Team STPGA Debut 2nd Annual STPGA Hope Cup New Leaders, New Energy STPGA Represents at the PGA Champ Nick Madden, PGA, Runs for REACH Our Partners Make it Possible Fuston & Jurgensen Ends 5-Year Drought for STPGA 5th Year of Charlie Epps Scholarship
By Southern Texas PGA November 18, 2025
HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 18, 2025) – The historic 45th Joe Black Cup has concluded, and we proudly congratulate Team NTPGA on securing the victory at BraeBurn Country Club with a final score of 15.5–8.5 over Team STPGA. Team NTPGA established early momentum during Day One, delivering an impressive performance in the Four-Ball and Foursomes matches, where they earned 9.5 points to build a commanding lead. Their strong play continued into the Singles matches, where they successfully held off a determined rally from Team STPGA. Throughout Tuesday’s competition, spectators were treated to a dynamic and engaging battle, with the leaderboard frequently shifting between red and blue as both teams exchanged critical points to tie the session 6-6. This year’s event was elevated by a truly memorable “Evening of Honor,” during which we welcomed and celebrated 29 Past Captains. Their presence underscored the tradition, legacy, and camaraderie that define the Texas Joe Black Cup Matches. The evening served as a powerful reminder of the event’s rich history and the influential leaders who have helped shape its enduring significance. We extend heartfelt congratulations to Team NTPGA for their outstanding performance and to both teams for exemplifying sportsmanship, competitive spirit, and pride in their respective sections. The 45th Joe Black Cup will long be remembered as a fitting tribute to the heritage of golf in Texas, Mr. Joe Black, and the individuals who continue to elevate the game. After 45 years of competition, the Northern Texas PGA now holds a 22–21–2 lead over the Southern Texas PGA in the storied history of the Joe Black Cup Matches. The 46th playing will return to Midland Country Club on November 16–17, 2026, where Team STPGA will look to reclaim the cup and bring it back to Southern Texas. A special thank you to Club Car, Srixon, Cleveland Golf, Peter Millar, and Winston Collection for their outstanding partnership and support in creating a world-class atmosphere befitting this historic 45th edition of the Matches. To view the photos of the past captains, click here . To view the dinner and practice round, click here . To view the day one matches, click here . To view the final day matches, click here . To view the final results, click here .
By STPGA Office November 13, 2025
Guiding Team STPGA: Bryan Minnick, PGA
By Southern Texas PGA November 5, 2025
SPRING, TX (November 5, 2025) – After falling heartbreakingly short one year ago, Team Southern Texas PGA returned to the Levy Cup Matches with one mission: to bring the Cup home. And in one of the most dramatic finishes in event history, they did just that, defeating Team Northern Texas PGA by a single point at Gleneagles Country Club in Plano, Texas. The 9th playing of the Levy Cup Matches, held November 3–4, featured twelve PGA Professionals from each Section competing across Four-Ball, Foursomes, and Singles Matches in a spirited Ryder Cup–style format. 
By Southern Texas PGA October 29, 2025
Lonny Alexander, PGA – Faith, Family, and Fairways
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