Maximize Your Irrigation System Capabilities With NSN Training

Did you know the same resource you call to answer support questions about your Toro® irrigation system offers training sessions to help you get the most out of that system?

The more you know, the better equipped you will be to maximize the capabilities of your golf course’s irrigation control solution. That’s why Toro’s National Support Network (NSN®) offers a range of training opportunities to fit your schedule and level of experience. This season alone, more than 400 golf course professionals took advantage of NSN’s in-person training resources to expand their irrigation system knowledge base. See below for a summary of what’s available:

Classroom Instruction: Lynx® Level 1, 2, 3, and Lynx Daily Operation
Toro NSN courses are held in regional locations around the world and at various Toro locations. Lynx Level 1 and Level 2 are two-day courses that include computer-based instruction using a pre-loaded database, so participants can apply what they learn on functional Toro hardware operating in real time. The Level 1 course covers the nuts and bolts of the system, and the Level 2 course offers more advanced instruction for experienced users. The Level 3 course for power users is two and a half days and allows participants to bring their own database to work with during the session. Lynx Daily Operation is a one-day course covering the basics for the infrequent user, foreman, irrigation tech, etc. All classes are GCSAA accredited.

Regional training is primarily hosted by Toro distributors during the off season (typically October through May). It’s not only a valuable learning experience — it’s also an excellent networking event where you can connect with other golf course professionals and Toro.

Lunch is provided both days, along with dinner the first evening. Participants also receive a detailed resource manual, a completion certificate, plaque and complimentary gift. Classes are taught by licensed superintendents who are active in their regional GCSAA organization, and participants earn CEUs for completing the class.

Focused Training
This increasingly popular option offers personalized one-on-one training that is specific your needs. You fill out a survey about what you want to accomplish in one training session, and NSN schedules that training. A field service component may also be included for a more hands-on experience.

There are two options to choose from: instructor-led web-based training in 1- or 2-hour blocks of time, or in-person training where a professional trainer comes to your operation for a half day or full day of training utilizing your course’s database. The online option is good for those who want to save time and travel costs, whereas the in-person option may be more cost-effective for sites with multiple participants (such as golf courses with a large internship program or a group of new employees to train).

NSN Focused Training is available at a separate cost for all Toro Lynx and SitePro customers with current NSN subscriptions. Contact Nick Morgan at 1-888-676-8676, option 2, for details.

Lynx Express Training
Originally developed as a summer supplement to the training program, these live webinars are now available on the second Tuesday of every month at 12 p.m. Central time from October to May. From May to October, the sessions are Tuesdays or Thursdays with varying times to assist international customers. Webinars last 30 to 60 minutes and focus on one topic, covering key foundational information or enhancements available in new releases of Lynx. There is no cost to participate; simply sign up for the session(s) you want to attend.

Training in Ten Videos
Available to current NSN customers through the NSN Portal, these free online training videos cover a wide range of topics and average about 10 minutes each. Ideal for new Lynx users, the videos provide an orientation to the system, as well as key system basics.

Monthly Newsletter
All NSN customers receive a monthly newsletter with relevant and important information for Toro irrigation customers. Recent newsletters have covered what’s new in Lynx 6.0, how to get your irrigation system ready for spring startup, and information about Control Repair.

How to Participate
Prepaid tuition is included with Toro NSN Support Ultimate, Optimum and Classic 36 renewal packages. If you do not currently have NSN Support or your NSN Support package does not include prepaid tuition, you may pay the tuition separately to attend the training.

If you’re on NSN’s contact list, watch your email for an invitation when training is scheduled for your region. Toro distributors also contact customers in a variety of ways to invite them to regional sessions, from phone calls to emails to direct mail. To learn more or sign up for a course, call NSN Support Training Administrator, Nick Morgan, at 1-888-676-8676, option 2. More information and a regional training schedule are also available in the training section at www.toronsn.com.