August 02, 2021

John Deere announces inaugural Technician Awards

Luke Chandler standing in front of a tractor

Luke Chandler, John Deere Australia and New Zealand Managing Director

Crestmead, Queensland (2 August 2021) — THE HIGH-PERFORMING technicians who help to keep Australian and New Zealand farmers running and support the productivity of the nation's agriculture sector will be honoured at the inaugural John Deere Technician Awards, announced today.

John Deere Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Luke Chandler, said technicians were often quiet achievers relied upon to deliver services integral to farmers', and construction machinery contractors', businesses and the Awards would celebrate their contribution to their industries and local communities.

"These Awards are an opportunity to recognise the hard work and skill offered by these individuals, who are not celebrated enough for the fundamental role they play in assisting both their customers, communities, and their industry reach full potential," Mr Chandler said.

"Australia and New Zealand's John Deere technicians are some of the best in the world and proactively monitor equipment, provide customised support and help to ensure machinery operators and owners stay up-to-date with technology advancements.

"We know technology is key in unlocking greater productivity and sustainability for farming and construction businesses, and our technicians provide an important link between operators and their equipment."

Dealerships have been asked to put forward their top technicians, with more than 110 nominations received from across the two countries in four different categories, including Ag & Turf Service Technician of the Year, Construction & Forestry Service Technician of the Year, Parts Technician of the Year, and Apprentice of the Year.

John Deere Australia and New Zealand Director of Aftermarket and Customer Support, Emma Ford, said she was impressed by the substantial number of nominations, particularly given the Awards were in their first year.

"The overwhelming response from dealers to nominate their best technicians demonstrates how valued technicians are within the John Deere business, in local dealerships and in their communities," Ms Ford said.

"Many nominations included passionate letters of support from customers expressing their gratitude for the level of service they have received from their technician. It is this dedication from these individuals we are looking forward to celebrating."

Given the breadth of the current nominee pool, Mr Chandler said he knew the agriculture and construction and forestry sectors were in good hands, and that career opportunities for technicians would grow exponentially in coming years.

"Favourable seasonal conditions in key production areas have meant an increase in the nation's machinery fleet, which has led to a strong demand for skilled technicians in rural and regional areas," Mr Chandler said.

"These awards will not only recognise individuals, but also celebrate the important contribution technicians make to the farm and construction sectors, and demonstrate to those considering moving into this field just how rewarding and varied a career with John Deere as a technician can be.

"The role of technician appeals to those who enjoy problem solving and does have a significant hands-on element however, in today's operating environment, they also need robust digital and technical knowledge. Our technicians are highly skilled in performing machine diagnostics and repairs, and utilise remote support tools to maximise machinery uptime for their customers."

Nominations to the inaugural John Deere Technician Awards have now closed and regional finalists will be selected to undergo hands-on testing at John Deere Australia and New Zealand's national headquarters in Queensland, pending travel restrictions. Regional finalists will be announced in August, with the winners recognised at an Awards event planned for later in the year.

About John Deere:
Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) is a world leader in providing advanced products and services and is committed to the success of customers whose work is linked to the land - those who cultivate, harvest, transform, enrich and build upon the land to meet the world's dramatically increasing need for food, fuel, shelter and infrastructure. Since 1837, John Deere has delivered innovative products of superior quality built on a tradition of integrity. For more information, visit John Deere at its worldwide website at JohnDeere.com in New Zealand at JohnDeere.co.nz.

Media Contacts:

Stacey Wordsworth
0438 394 371
stacey.wordsworth@bluehillpr.com.au

Hannah Hardy
0421 196 004
hannah.hardy@bluehillpr.com.au