JCB has teamed up with Cullen-based Heavy Plant Training Ltd to deliver backhoe loader training in the north of Scotland and the islands.
The partnership, delivered through Scot JCB, has resulted in the arrival of a new JCB 3CX PRO with servo controls to Heavy Plant Training Ltd.
James Currie, MD of Heavy Plant Training Ltd, plans to use the ‘top spec’ machine to train new starts as well as existing plant operators looking to up-skill.
The 3CX PRO boasts a front quick hitch, servo controls and power-slide for ease of use and comfort. The machine’s arrival coincided with the 16th birthday of James’ eldest son Jamie, who hit the headlines in 2020 when he became the youngest person to gain a Red Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) Card, making him a trained digger operator.
Jamie couldn’t wait to try it out, as his father James explained: “Jamie finished his last exam at school the same day the JCB 3CX arrived. Getting to try it out was a great way to spend his 16th birthday.
“I am grateful to partner with JCB and Scot JCB as this machine will make a real difference to the training we can offer. The plan is to offer exemplar training to complete novices starting out in the industry, as well as to more experienced plant operators looking for specific training on a backhoe loader.
“We’ll focus on getting operators trained to get the best out of the 3CX and show them what an asset such a machine and skilled operator can be on a site.
“Similar to Jamie, I’ve already had a father and son pay us a visit so that the son can now do formal training, building on what he has learned from his dad. I’ll also be able to satisfy the backhoe training demand across Scotland at client’s premises.”
It is hoped that this training will help to address skills shortages currently engulfing the sector.
Robin Bryant, joint MD at Scot JCB, added, “The JCB backhoe loader is a key product for the Scottish market, and we are delighted to be supporting an initiative which is inspiring and supporting the next generation of backhoe operators. The backhoe we provided came with servo controls, which are very familiar to excavator users.
“As well as engaging a new generator of operators, the familiarity will, without doubt, also encourage excavator users to consider up-skilling.”
The first 10 candidates to complete the backhoe loader training on the JCB 3CX will also receive an operator’s goodie bag from JCB.
