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Hutcheon & Pearce Sales Representatives head to Brisbane for exclusive Compact Construction Equipment training to meet growing demand.

In April 2024, fourteen Hutcheon and Pearce (H&P) sales representatives attended an exclusive training event at the John Deere Crestmead training center in Brisbane. This training, tailored specifically for H&P, aimed to equip the sales team with in-depth knowledge of compact construction equipment (CCE) fundamentals. Recognising the growing demand for CCE in our AOR, H&P collabo-rated with John Deere to make sales representatives CCE experts. The training covered essential aspects such as machine connectivity, operating capacities, and critical measurements, emphasising the importance of selecting the right equipment. Customers can trust that H&P sales representatives are experts in the CCE field.

In a proactive move to increase CCE offerings, Hutcheon and Pearce (H&P) recently sent fourteen sales representatives to the John Deere Crestmead training center in Brisbane. Held on April 18-19, 2024, this event focused on the fundamentals of compact construction equipment (CCE), tailored exclusively for H&P due to the soaring demand in the AOR.

Darren Gray, Turf, CCE & Lifestyle – Group Sales Manager was the driving force behind the event and champions the shifting landscape of customer preferences. “Customers have been familiar with other brands in CCE for so long, but because of H&P’s reach, they are now coming to us for their construction needs too,” he noted. The event highlighted the vast opportunities available to customers through advanced technology, particularly John Deere’s connectivity.

The training underscored the significance of connectivity in modern construction equipment. “We have realised there is such a huge opportunity for customers to embrace the technology coming through, especially with machines connected through the Operations Center and other tools like Smart Grade,” Darren explained. “It’s all about connectivity. TECSight extends the technology and support services that H&P provides, allowing customers to access a call center to remotely diagnose problems and minimize downtime.”

The hands-on training sessions were comprehensive. The team delved into market sizes, customer needs, and the critical questions customers typically ask. Understanding these aspects is crucial for H&P’s sales reps to convey the capabilities of various machines accurately. For instance, the training highlighted the differences in measuring the operating capacity between skid steers and compact track loaders. “Comparing units to the same SAE standards are critical and therein lies a difference between the two styles of equipment. Skid steers are calculated at 50% operating capacity, whereas track loaders are rated at 35%,” Darren clarified. “It’s critical to get these measurements right to avoid customers investing in machines that won’t meet their needs.”

Transporting these machines is another critical consideration covered in the training. With machines weighing between 3-5 tonnes, the sales reps learned how to guide customers in choosing equipment compatible with their existing transport options.

One of the standout features discussed was the ease of servicing John Deere machines. The training demonstrated how operators can safely access parts by raising the boom and locking it from inside the cab. “Unlike other machines, where customers have to get out to lock the boom in place, John

Deere offers a lever-controlled lock inside the cab,” Darren highlighted. This feature significantly en-hances operational efficiency and safety.

John Deere’s track loaders and skid steers also boast a sealed switch module, preventing dirt and dust from entering the control panel. This module includes an anti-theft function, allowing operators to set usage limits, making it ideal for hire machines. Additionally, the adjustable joystick sensitivity caters to operators of varying experience levels, enhancing comfort and control.

When purchasing a mini excavator, it’s crucial to consider the following factors to ensure it meets your operational needs:

· Operating Weight: Determine if the excavator can be safely loaded onto a trailer.

· Width: Assess the width to ensure it fits the common operational spaces.

· Height, Length, and Maximum Depth: Verify these dimensions for compatibility with your projects.

· Engine Power: Ensure the engine power is sufficient for your tasks.

· Bucket Breakout Force: Consider the bucket breakout force for effective digging and mate-rial handling.

When selecting a skid steer or track loader, consider the following factors to ensure it meets your operational needs:

· Rated Operating Capacity: Know how much you want to move. Your H&P sales rep will as-sist you with this.

· Connectivity: Ensure the machine is equipped with modern connectivity features.

· Weight for Transport: Confirm that your current truck can handle the machine’s weight.

· Width of the Machine: Consider the machine’s width for the required operational space.

· Height to Hinge: Factor in the height for efficient operation.

· Dump Height: Ensure it meets the needs of your projects.

· Tipping Load: Understand the machine’s stability and tipping load.

· Hydraulic Pump Flow: Check for adequate hydraulic power and performance.

· Engine and Fuel Tank Size: Ensure the engine and fuel tank size match your operational re-quirements.

Mini excavators were another focus of the training. The team learned about the critical factors affecting their operation, including weight, width, height, length, maximum digging depth, engine power, and bucket breakout force. The mini excavators run piston pumps providing superior performance. The Variable width undercarriage is fantastic for working in tighter job site spots. One of the tasks was for sales reps to hop the machine over a channel. Darren recalls this learning outcome which put the sales reps to the test. “Basically, you had to put the bucket out, start to raise it, blade out the back and raise it up, then creeping the machine forward to get it over the top of the trench. Say it was a pipe you didn’t want to run over, sales reps learnt how to lift the machine over the pipe with the bucket and the blade.” The practical exercise of manoeuvring a mini excavator over a trench showcased the machine’s superior performance and the importance of precision in operation.

H&P’s initiative to collaborate with John Deere for this specialised training reflects dedication to staying at the forefront of CCE technology and providing unmatched support to customers. By equipping the sales team with this in-depth knowledge, H&P ensures tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of customers.

The benefits of connectivity in these machines cannot be overstated. Operators can track their equipment in real time, monitor fuel usage, and optimise efficiency. Match this with the practical aspects, such as controlling joystick sensitivity and implementing security features, ultimately enhancing the operator’s experience and productivity.