We Are Land-based Engineering, part of the Land-based Engineering – Training and Education Committee (LE-TEC Ltd) has announced the winners of its Land-based Engineering Technician of the Year Award 2025.
The award recognises the next generation of engineers showing innovation and excellence across the UK industry.
The organisation states that this year saw a record number of entries, with young people from across the country nominated by their peers, colleagues, employers and lecturers.
Charlie Nicklin, CEO of Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE), comments on this year’s competition, “As judges, it was a challenge to get to our three winners from the fantastic array of entries we had this year. The three technicians chosen are a credit to their employers and have individually shone through for a variety of reasons, including technical ability, commitment and passion in their roles.
“They are all great ambassadors for our industry and will hopefully inspire others going forward.”
Three technicians were awarded in the ceremony:
1st place
Alfie Holstead, representing Grimme UK.
Nominated by his lecturer at Reaseheath College, Alfie stood out for his exceptional technical ability, dedication to continuous learning, and passion for agricultural engineering. His achievement highlights the vital role of apprenticeships and education in shaping the future of the industry. Alfie was awarded a Kubota Tool Box as his prize.
Alfie commented: “I was already over the moon to hear I’d won 1st place, but to find out what my prize was, it’s incredible. Thank you to those involved in the judging process and to Kubota UK for the prize.”
2nd place
Joe Sweetmore of B&B Tractors, whose nomination came from his service manager. Joe impressed the judges with his level of hands-on expertise, excellent problem-solving skills, and commitment to delivering high-quality service in a fast-paced environment. Joe was awarded a Makita UK Radio.
3rd place
Anna Welland of Rea Valley Tractors, nominated by her lecturer at Writtle College. Anna’s strong academic performance, practical aptitude, and enthusiasm for the sector made her a standout candidate and a role model for aspiring technicians.
Anna received a Makita UK Tool Kit for coming third in the competition. This will be invaluable to her career moving forward.
“The We Are Land-based Engineering initiative is extremely important to the sector, building awareness of the career opportunities on offer by reaching out to younger generations and potential career changers alike.
“The calibre of the entrants we saw in this year’s Land-Based Engineering Technician of the Year was outstanding, filling myself and my fellow competition judges with pride and optimism for the new talent emerging across the board,” explains Nick Darking, general manager of BAGMA.
