The agricultural machinery industry has become too stereotyped, says Paul Hemingway, President of the Institution of Agricultural Engineers (IAgrE) and should aim for a more diverse intake of new talent in terms of ethnicity and gender.

 

“It is an age-old issue,” he told the Inside Agri-Turf podcast, “but we are at a tipping point where, perhaps because of Covid, people are more aware of where food comes from and how it is produced. We are also introducing new technology on a daily basis which will require support.

 

“But we are still largely an ageing, male dominated industry”.

 

Paul worked for JCB for almost 30 years, and was Global Dealer Training Manager before his retirement. He added, “During my time at JCB we had a diverse intake of apprentices, and the girls were always a source of fresh ideas, and often asked questions we had never even thought of asking!”

 

During the podcast, he also reflected on the future of training, his time as Vice President Service for JCB India, the impact of Brexit and the New Zealand agriculture example – and his favourite motto from the JCB founder.

 

In the next Inside Agri-Turf podcast (published on 20 September), Chris Biddle talks to BAGMA President, Peter Arrand, about dealer training and education initiatives.