Ben Burgess are proud to be part of the record-breaking John Deere apprenticeship scheme

Ben Burgess are proud to be a part of the record-breaking John Deere apprenticeship scheme with 8 of our staff currently participating.

An amazing 66 parts and service technicians are currently being trained in this year’s John Deere Ag Tech, Parts Tech and Turf Tech advanced apprenticeship programmes; the highest total intake since the first induction in 1992. This also includes 5 females which is more than ever before.

John Deere’s three-year Ag Tech and Turf Tech and two-year Parts Tech apprenticeships involve students being trained in engineering, electronics, hydraulics, diagnostics, communication skills, computing, sales and marketing.

The programmes lead to IMI Level 2 & 3 Diplomas in Landbased Engineering and Vehicle Parts Competence, and registration at LTA Intermediate level in the industry’s Landbased Training Accreditation scheme.

These award-winning programmes are run annually in partnership with the dealer network and national training provider ProVQ at the purpose-built John Deere Apprentice Training Centre in Radcliffe-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire.

“There’s never been a better time to consider an apprenticeship with John Deere,” said the company’s training centre manager Allan Cochran. “The increasing levels of automation used throughout our products, including artificial intelligence, advanced electronics, satellite guidance systems and telematics, give us the ability to diagnose and repair machines without even laying a hand on them. All this technology, as well as cutting edge engine and transmission design, means the need for skilled people within our dealerships is ever-present.”

“It’s not just about the machines either – sophisticated parts and service systems require the same skills too. The John Deere dealer of tomorrow is a challenging business, with a wide range of opportunities and exciting prospects for talented, enthusiastic people from any background.”

Like all apprenticeships, the programmes combine on-the-job training with paid employment at the dealership, leading to nationally recognised and valued qualifications. Apprentices undergo fully supported training, assessment and guidance, gaining valuable workplace skills by undertaking practical tasks and experiencing real-life challenges. They also spend eight weeks each year at the John Deere Apprentice Training Centre and head office in Langar.

Now in its 28th year, Ag Tech was the first such scheme to be introduced in the UK and won a National Training Award at the end of 1997; the only one ever made to an agricultural machinery apprenticeship programme. John Deere is also the only agricultural and turf machinery company to be recognised as one of the best 100 employers for school leavers in the UK.

Almost 800 apprentices have graduated through the schemes since the start including many staff here at Ben Burgess.

Once qualified, technicians will continue to undergo further education and adult training within the John Deere University programme, on a career path that can ultimately lead to the highest possible LTA Master Technician accreditation.

Further details of the apprentice training programmes offered by Ben Burgess can be found at:
https://www.benburgess.co.uk/careers/apprenticeships/

Photo:
John Deere’s new trainee apprentices, pictured during their induction day at the Albert Hall Conference Centre in Nottingham in October.

Ben Burgess apprentices photographed are:
Callum Clarke, Finn Sagrott, Sam Galey, Ethan Langley, Honor Miles, Liam Reynolds, Antonino Barraco and Benjamin Cox.