John Deere has announced a new training programme, offering new career opportunities for military personnel in agricultural and groundscare engineering.
Responding to the global shortage of qualified technicians, members of the armed forces have been identified as the ideal candidates to bring their skill sets and experiences to UK and Ireland dealerships.
It follows the successful launch of the company’s Military Hiring Programme in the United States, which attracts more than 1,000 new recruits each year.
“We are passionate about finding a way to give back to those who have served our country,” says Allan Cochran, John Deere branch training manager.
“The armed forces produces people who are highly skilled, motivated and extremely competent, and many already have the engineering skills needed to become qualified technicians.
“It’s the perfect fit for John Deere – we are able to play our part in supporting those resettling following careers in the armed forces while also attracting a different pool of people into the business.”
As part of its commitment, John Deere has signed the Armed Forces Covenant; a pledge that will ensure those who serve, or have served, in the armed forces are treated fairly, along with their families.
Recruits to the scheme will use the latest automation, artificial intelligence and guidance technologies to ensure customers get the best performance and utilisation from their machines.
“Those who have served are experts at working under pressure and logically solving problems in order to keep a machine operational,” Mr Cochran said. “These are the skills John Deere dealerships need to keep the wheels turning.”
Those taking part will be offered free technical training to help them apply their skills to the John Deere product range, with more than 70 courses.
“Everyone who signs up will be assigned to an employee from the John Deere network who has served in the armed forces who will be there to support each individual during the resettlement process,” Mr Cochran added.
Those interested can go to www.deere.com and fill out a contact form. They will then be put in touch with an individual from the John Deere network.