John Deere Australia and New Zealand has highlighted the critical role technicians will play in agriculture performing to its full potential and achieving the industry goal of production to the value of $100 billion by 2030, off the back of industry-wide, strong machinery sales and a positive forward outlook for the farm sector.
John Deere Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Luke Chandler, said favourable seasonal conditions in key production areas, coupled with the Federal Government’s Instant Asset Write Off Scheme, had grown the size of the nation’s machinery fleet, driving demand for skilled technicians in rural and regional areas.
More machines are also now in operation following the growth of John Deere’s Construction and Forestry business, which services an industry also experiencing a period of great expansion. Mr Chandler said:
“Both the farming and construction sectors are undergoing a shift in gear and a clear acceleration of growth that we expect to be long-term. However, for these industries to truly reach their potential, and for communities to gain the full benefit of this growth, we will need the expertise and support of trusted, local technicians.”
“John Deere technicians share a very special relationship with customers in that they are relied upon to deliver services that are at the heart of the success of farming and construction operations. This includes proactively monitoring equipment, customised support and helping customers stay up-to-date on the latest technology advancements, and what these can do for the performance of their businesses.”
To help deliver a clear career pathway for more technicians to enter the profession, and to ensure industry-leading knowledge and skills, John Deere has formed partnerships with Registered Training Organisations and external providers to bolster dealership training and development capabilities.
Mr Chandler said it was critical to develop high-quality, industry-specific skills and knowledge, to not only support the current demands of agriculture, but to also lay the foundations for future technology capabilities. Mr Chandler said:
“Artificial Intelligence, automation and machines connected to a digital ecosystem are the kind of precision technologies spearheading the industry’s step change, and with that comes an exponential demand for technicians who are not only skilled in providing aftermarket support, but also there to help empower farmers to get the most from their equipment.”
“Technicians are generally individuals who enjoy problem solving and working with their hands, but in today’s world, they also have robust digital and technical knowledge. They are highly skilled at performing machine diagnostics and repairs, and utilise remote support tools to maximise machinery uptime for their customers.”
“For instance, through our portfolio of Connected Support tools, technicians can remotely access a machine and not only diagnose an issue, but also provide support to the farmer on how they can monitor and enhance their equipment’s performance.”
“John Deere technicians also assist customers with finding the tools and resources they need to maintain their own equipment, and often become an integral part of an operator’s business.”
Mr Chandler said technicians were also critical team members within John Deere dealership businesses, and often progressed into senior and leadership roles.
“The hands-on practical experience, knowledge and skill-set of a technician is leveraged across all functions of a dealer business and can lead to further career progression and management opportunities.”
“It’s an exciting time to become a technician, not only do they have the opportunity to work with world-leading and innovative technology in the heart of a regional and rural community, but they can also be part of an industry on the cusp of a technological shift that’s creating a more sustainable future, while helping feed, shelter, and clothe the world’s growing population.”
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