IN the 1970's, more than 30,000 tractors were sold each year to Britain's farmers. Today that number is much nearer 10,000 annually.
But that doesn't tell the full story. Nothing like it!

Where previously three or four tractors were used on a farm, today typically a farmer will have one or two massive tractors to cope with the huge acreage.

Those tractors will have an engine capable of producing 200 hp and upwards - and will be packed with more computer-power, electronics and sophisticated control systems than many of the early space rockets.

And as tractors and machines have grown in complexity, so the service support required to keep the equipment working at full efficiency requires a new breed of technicians and technical support, highly trained, committed and adaptable.

Whereas, the agricultural mechanic of thirty years ago would only take a basic tool kit to repair a tractor or agricultural machine, today's technician is commonly equipped with a laptop computer, electronic diagnostic tools - and even an on-line connection to service information and history for that particular model stored many thousands of miles away.

Change is in the air for British farming.

Economics have forced food growers to change the structure and their working methods, relying on bigger, faster and more reliable tractors and machinery.

Manufacturers have responded accordingly by turning to every innovation available to them.

Many of the larger tractors steer themselves, using satellite positioning systems (GPS) to relieve the driver of maintaining the pin-point accuracy required  for soil preparation, crop planting and harvesting.

And this technology spreads across many other machines including combines.

If you haven't sat in the seat of a modern tractor, you are in for a shock!

Driver comfort is paramount. Electronic controls easily at hand, on-board entertainment systems, air conditioning, all designed to not only meet increasing regulations to protect drivers health, but to aid efficiency of operation.

Challenging career

Working in the farm machinery industry is both rewarding and challenging.

You will enjoy the outdoor life, you will enjoy working on a variety of machines, you will be attracted and fascinated by new innovations - and above all you will relish a challenge.

The network of some 1500 UK agricultural machinery dealerships, most of them working hand in hand with  one of the major manufacturers, are always on the lookout for fresh talent, and offer a variety of training opportunities.

You will work as part of a team, but be given the opportunity to build a career in whatever sector of the business appeals to you most.

Four year modern apprenticeships are available, through a dealership, where you will be given the opportunity to attend block release courses, either at a local college, or at the training school of one of the leading manufacturers.

Start by obtaining an NVQ at level 2 and 3 in servicing engineering, parts operation or sales, then perhaps move on to an HND Degree, or NVQ Level 4.

Whichever training route you take, you can be assured that you do so with the support of a local company who are able to use the full resources provided by some of the biggest names in agriculture.

Want to know more?

Go to www.careertrac.info for up-to-date information, or contact the Career Project offices on 0870 205 2834