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Trained machinery mechanics are currently in demand and there is also an attractive career progression path, says chief executive of the Farm Tractor & Machinery Trade Association (FTMTA) Gary Ryan.
“Our trade is cying out for mechanics at all levels. The only way we’ll deal with the shortage of people is to bring in new entrants,” Gary told Irish Country Living. “Career progression in the machinery business is better now with 30 or more dealerships having two or more sites. So you now have jobs like foreman and branch manager that might not have been available before. A good few dealers have put in new workshops, so working environments have improved too.”
One option for students interested in mechanics is the level 7 agricultural mechanisation degree in Tralee, which was co-developed by the college and the FTMTA. While it didn’t run in September 2019, it is hoped that it will go ahead this September. For the first year, applicants must use the CAO system, they must also do an interview, an aptitude test and have an employer lined up for work experience.
Gary says that the benefit of doing this course, rather than a brand-specific one, is that your skills will be more transferable. Some dealerships take on apprentices who carry out their learning across a combination of SOLAS centres, IT Tralee and brand specific training abroad.
“The benefits of an apprenticeship is that you get paid while you go to college, and with the current shortage of mechanics you are guaranteed a job at the end,” said Gary.
The Institute of Technology Tralee has signed agreements with the University of Bologna, Italy, and the University of Burgandy, France, offering students the opportunity to complete some of their studies abroad.
The study-abroad option is a level 8 add on international agricultural engineering degree to students who hold a level 7 agricultural engineering degree or equivalent.
IT Tralee also purchased a Massey Ferguson 7716 with stage V engine in 2019, to give students exposure to the on-board diagnostics and sensor technology associated with the new Mother Regulations. The college also recruited an OBD specialist as a full-time lecturer.
Students complete a semester in Tralee and are then are on work placement for the second semester, for each of the three years.
Product specialists from companies such as Topcon, John Deere, Farmhand, Massey Ferguson, Kverneland Ireland, Volvo, Claas, Fendt, amongst others carry out weekly training days on campus.
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