The Land-based Engineering – Training and Education Committee (LE-TEC Ltd) has announced the winners of their Technicians for 2024 competition.
Now in its fifth year, there were two ways to enter. The traditional video entry method was still available to those putting themselves forward, or employers or lecturers could nominate outstanding students or employees.
The judging panel was made up of representatives from the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE), the British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association (BAGMA) and the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) alongside industry independents.
Winners
Third place – Mark Donaldson from Gammies Ground Care, winning Kubota 8 Drawer Rollcab with Ball-Bearing Slides
Second place – Zac Wallis from Oliver Landpower, winning a Makita UK cordless grease gun
First place – William Harland-Knight from Russells, winning a £150 gift voucher of their choice.
“The calibre of entrants this year has been incredible. The number of talented technicians coming through the dealers is such a rewarding thing to see. This year, we have also awarded several certificates of recognition to those with exceptional talent,” said Charlie Nicklin, CEO of IAgrE.
Nick Darking, BAGMA general manager, said: “Unearthing the often unsung but incredibly talented individuals in our industry is what this competition does best. This year the standard of entry has been outstanding.”
Mark said: “I am exceptionally honoured to be awarded third place for LE-TEC Land-based Engineering Technician of the Year 2024. I would like to express my gratitude to the judges for recognising my passion for this work and I hope to use this award to encourage our apprentices and future young engineers and show them just how much there is to achieve within this industry.”
Les Gammie, branch manager of Gammies Ground Care, added: “We are extremely proud of Mark for achieving this award from such a prestigious judging panel within the industry. It’s great to see young engineers, as the future of our industry, being recognised for their hard work and dedication.”
William was originally nominated by his lecturer at East Durham College and when asked about the win, Mike Herrington said: “Will’s contribution to training and development is outstanding, and he is a credit to himself and Russells.”
“We are thrilled that Will has been named Apprentice of the Year. His dedication to the land-based engineering industry is truly inspiring and he’s a vital part of the Russells team. We couldn’t be prouder of his accomplishments,” concluded John Jackson, group after-sales manager at Russells.