The Lewers Story
Mike Lewers serves as General Chairman of the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club, where he works closely with the PGA of America and club leadership to help deliver a world-class Championship.
A respected leader in the game, he is a member of the Board of Governors for the Golf Association of Philadelphia and serves as a Rules Official at the regional level.
Lewers is a member of Aronimink Golf Club, as well as Jupiter Hills Golf Club and Shelter Harbor Golf Club.
Professionally, he is President of Wayfinder Coaching, advising executives on leadership and strategy, following a decade at BlackRock. His experience across leadership, governance and golf in general positions him to help guide the Championship at Aronimink.
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How long have you been a member at Aronimink and what drew you to join?
I’ve been a member at Aronimink for 19 years. What drew me in was the club’s history and the strength of its Donald Ross design, which continues to stand as one of the premier tests in golf.
What made you accept the role of General Chairman?
It’s a rare opportunity to help bring a major Championship back to Aronimink and represent the club on a global stage. With more than 200,000 spectators expected, it’s an event that has a meaningful impact on both the club and the broader Philadelphia community.
Biggest expected vs. unexpected challenge?
The scale of the Championship is the biggest expected challenge, as we’re essentially building a world-class venue from the ground up. What stands out even more is the level of coordination required across so many partners to ensure a seamless experience.
How many volunteers are involved?
More than 3,200 volunteers will support the Championship across a wide range of roles. They are essential to delivering a smooth, world-class experience for players and spectators.
Why did Aronimink bring the PGA Championship back?
Aronimink has a long history of hosting major championships, including the 1962 PGA Championship, and remains a course that challenges the best players in the world. Hosting again reflects both that legacy and the club’s ability to deliver at the highest level.
What was the goal of the course updates?
The goal was to enhance playability and sustainability while preserving the integrity of the original Donald Ross design. At the same time, the updates ensure the course continues to provide a fair but challenging test for the world’s best players.
What makes Philadelphia-area golf so strong?
The region has an exceptional concentration of historic, high-quality courses with deep roots in the game.
That combination of tradition and variety is what makes golf in Philadelphia stand out.
Most important skill in your role?
Leadership and coordination are critical in this role. Bringing together the PGA of America, the club and local partners is key to delivering a successful Championship.
When will members get the course back?
Following the Championship, the course and surrounding areas will be fully restored after temporary infrastructure is removed.
The goal is to return the course to its original condition for member play.
What do you want Aronimink’s lasting impression to be?
We want Aronimink to be remembered for delivering a world-class Championship that reflects the club’s history and standards.
It should showcase a course that provides a fair but challenging test for the best players in the world.
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