Group of employees standing between a John Deere loader and tractor inside a service facility.

2026 John Deere Technician of the Year Winners

Person standing beside a John Deere 8345RT tractor in an outdoor equipment yard.

Brady Gunter

Ag & Turf Service Technician of the Year, Australia

"A year working on a NSW sheep farm gave me a real appreciation for the pressure farmers are under, and how important reliable machinery is to agricultural operations."

Person standing in front of a John Deere 340 tractor outside a farm equipment facility.

James Doherty

Ag & Turf Service Technician of the Year, New Zealand

"From a young age I was obsessed with farming and tractors and my dream was to work for a John Deere dealership. In 2017 that dream became a reality, and at 26, I'm now a senior mechanic."

Person standing in front of a John Deere motor grader inside an equipment workshop.

Hayden Cox

C&F Service Technician of the Year, Australia & New Zealand

"Knowing my skills contribute directly to the productivity and success of the construction industry, which relies on equipment to keep businesses operating, is a strong motivator."

Person standing in front of a John Deere harvester inside a maintenance facility.

Ashley Ralph

Parts Technician of the Year, Australia

"This work has sharpened my problem solving, communication and analytical skills, and the role continues to push me to grow within an industry I'm proud to be part of."

Person standing beside a John Deere tractor, with loader arm and large rear wheel visible.

Aaron Game

Parts Technician of the Year, New Zealand

"It isn't just good service, it keeps the country's productivity and economy running, and we all want success."

Person standing beside a John Deere tractor in an outdoor equipment dealership yard.

Lauren Lester

Parts Apprentice of the Year, Australia & New Zealand

"I strongly believe experienced, reliable parts interpreters play a critical role. My favourite part is seeing the machine roll out of the shed when it's all repaired."

Person standing beside a large John Deere agricultural machine with oversized rear wheel.

Kyle Burns

Service Apprentice of the Year, Australia & New Zealand

"As a mature-aged apprentice, I tell people that it's never too late to change careers. Many people feel they've missed their opportunity, but I'm living proof that this simply isn't true."