Lead Assistant Professional at Penn Oaks Golf Club | PGA Associate

Starting the game later than most at age 16, Zak Karlton quickly climbed the ranks of the golf industry through a combination of passion, discipline, and a relentless work ethic. From humble beginnings in the bag room at Coatesville Country Club, he advanced through key positions at Wyncote Golf Club and White Clay Creek Country Club, where he served as Supervisor and Second Assistant Professional. He now proudly holds the role of Lead Assistant Golf Professional at Penn Oaks Golf Club.

A dedicated collegiate athlete, Zak Karlton walked on to the NCAA Division III golf team at Penn State Brandywine. There, he made an immediate impact, competing for four years, captaining the team for three, setting the school’s low scoring record, and earning numerous accolades including multiple All-Conference honors, MVP awards, and back-to-back USCAA Player of the Week recognitions. He graduated with a BA degree in Communications with a minor in English from The Pennsylvania State University and is currently advancing through the PGA Professional Golf Management (PGM) program on the path to becoming a PGA Professional.

A strong advocate for junior golf, Zak Karlton is passionate about mentoring young players and growing the game at all levels. He is one of the coaches for the Penn Oaks PGA Jr. League team. One of his greatest joys today is introducing his younger sister, Kollins, to the sport that has shaped his life and continues to shape.