Welcome New Board Members

Chris Moras, Ground Works Distribution (Industry)

Many of you have met Chris at the Road Shows over the past few years demonstrating his equipment! A graduate of Prattville High School, Chris earned an Associate’s degree in Applied Science and Technology. He worked with the Montgomery Fire/Rescue Service for eleven years as a Fire Lieutenant and Paramedic.

Afterwards, he bought Southern Chippers, a property management company, specializing in large property restoration. Chris closed Southern Chippers to become the A&D Distributors sales manager for Walker, Wright and Worldlawn Equipment Companies, covering Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi and Florida Panhandle.

In January of 2019 he bought out A&D Distributors and opened Ground Works Distribution. Ground Works is currently the distributor for Walker and Wright Companies for Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, and supplies twenty-one independent dealers with everything from whole goods to parts.

Patrick Pierce, Grand National Golf Course (Golf)

Patrick began his career in the golf industry in 2001 while attending college at Faulkner State Community College in Gulf Shores, AL. While attending college he worked at Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club as well as Gulf Shores Golf Club. After graduating with his Associates Degree in Golf Course Management in 2004, Patrick moved back to his hometown of Auburn, AL and worked at Auburn University Club for 2 years before accepting an Assistant Superintendent’s position at Gulf Shores Golf Club. In 2007 he was given the opportunity to join the staff at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail @ Grand National where he has been ever since.

When Patrick is not working, he enjoys spending time relaxing at home with his 3 beagles: Mo, Pearl & Lula Belle. He enjoys fishing and tries to play golf from time to time. Patrick is an avid Auburn fan and never misses a home basketball or football game. About joining the ATA Board, Patrick says, “I look forward to serving as the Golf Industry Representative with the ATA this coming year, as we all continue to work hard to grow as turfgrass managers.”

Mark Irwin, City of Foley (At Large)

Mark was born and raised in Foley, Alabama. He is currently sports turf manager of the Sports Field Complex there. In 2011 the superb condition of the fields, turf and landscape earned Mark and his crew the ATA President’s Award for Excellence. Mark has been a consistent supporter of the ATA over the years, attending educational offerings and absorbing as much knowledge as possible.

Mark began his career in the green industry at Cotton Creek Golf Course where he started in grounds maintenance, moved up to spray tech and then to assistant superintendent. Kevin Kehr, superintendent at Cotton Creek taught Mark the business, from weed identification to turf management. From his father he learned a good work ethic early in life. Mark takes pride in his work, wants to learn and sets an example for others in the industry.

Outside of his career, Mark is a volunteer fire fighter for the City of Foley and served as deacon at First Baptist Church of Foley. His favorite pastimes include hunting, fishing, watersports and vegetable gardening. Mark is married to Julie, his wife of 26 years and they have a daughter, Mallory.