Trends in the Agricultural Equipment Technician Trade
Technology
Technology is advancing quickly in the agricultural sector. There is an increase in the use of precision farming equipment that uses technologies such as machine control, yield data gathering, application control, product documentation and traceability, auto steering/guidance (GNSS), field mapping, sectional control, yield mapping, drainage (grade) systems, telematics, and autonomous vehicles.
The introduction of electrically driven equipment is affecting the advancement of the industry. This equipment is more energy efficient and increases overall precision capabilities in farming operations.
There is an increase in the standardization of communication protocols (International Organization for Standardization [ISO]) between different manufacturers’ connected implements.
Tools and Equipment
Beyond the regular tools of the trade, technicians are using more and more digital interfaces. Electronic devices such as smart phones, tablets and laptops are now essential tools.
Environmental, Legislative and Regulatory
Environmental and emission control regulations have become more stringent and it is expected that they will become more stringent in the future.
As agricultural equipment increasingly spends more time on roads and highways at increased transport speeds and weight, technicians must pay particular attention to maintenance issues such as suspension, wheel torquing and on-road safety systems.
Other
Agricultural equipment technicians have access to a significant amount of client, company and manufacturers’ proprietary information. They must be cognizant and respectful of privacy and intellectual property rights and not share information such as photos, specifications and data without consent.
There are concerns in the agricultural equipment technician industry where equipment repairs are performed by people without the benefit of up-to-date recommendations and specifications. Manufacturers’ unauthorized repairs and modifications could lead to safety and environmental risks as well as legal liability exposure.