Michael Hurdzan

Michael Hurdzan was born on September 11, 1943, in the coal country near Wheeling, West Virginia. He studied Turfgrass Management at Ohio State University before earning a master's degree in Plant and Soil Science and a Ph.D. in Environmental Plant Physiology from the University of Vermont. A retired U.S. Army Special Forces Colonel, Hurdzan has combined his scientific expertise and military discipline into his golf architecture career.

Over five decades, he has been a pioneer in environmentally sensitive and sustainable golf course design, credited with designing or remodeling over 400 golf courses globally, including notable projects like Erin Hills, which hosted the 2017 U.S. Open. Hurdzan was one of the first designers to integrate environmental education and demonstration concepts into golf courses, exemplified by Widow's Walk in Massachusetts and Farmlinks in Alabama.

Known for collaboration, Hurdzan worked extensively with Dana Fry for 15 years and now continues with his son Christopher under Hurdzan Golf. He emphasizes practical design that respects maintenance needs—engaging superintendents to ensure courses are both playable and sustainable.