Female technicians of the future
8th March 2024
It turns out women like fixing tractors too. Increasing numbers of women are training to be agricultural engineers. To mark International Women’s Day, we spoke to a female trainee technician at one of our AGCO dealerships.
Zoe Wilding is in the second year of an Engineering Apprenticeship with Chandlers dealership in the UK. She’ll be a fully trained technician by the time she is 21 years old. We convinced her to put down her tools, wipe off the grease and talk to us for a bit about why she chose what has traditionally been a male career path.
What does your working day look like?
It’s really varied. I can do PDIs (pre-delivery inspections) and the occasional service on my own. But I am also supported to do bigger jobs like changing hub seals on fast tracks or replacing a water pump.
What motivated you to become an agricultural engineering apprentice?
I grew up around farms, agriculture, and the countryside. Plus, I've always been interested in mechanics and wanted the opportunity to find out more. I like getting hands on too. So, I took the chance and ended up really enjoying it and wouldn't do anything else now.
Have you had any mentors or people who have supported you?
My mum’s very supportive. If ever I’m nervous about something or worried she always pushes me to do my best. So, I couldn’t do it without her. Also, my cousin’s boyfriend is a mechanic and he let me work alongside him some Saturdays. I just really enjoyed it. But tractors are big and more exciting than cars.
How do you find working in a team that is mostly men?
The lads are lovely. Can’t ask for a better bunch to be fair. I have to ask a lot of questions, but there is stuff they don’t know too, and they’re always happy to help. The men treat me the same as everyone else, which is better than them being overly nice.
Would you encourage other women to follow your lead?
It'd definitely be nice for more women to come into this industry. The only thing I would say is sometimes I am not as physically strong as the men in my team, and I do have to ask for help. But not one judges, and everyone is helpful and kind. We are a team with different strengths and abilities.
What’s the best bit?
The training can be really rewarding. For example, I fitted a beacon to a tractor. It was a little bit of wiring, but I got right. It’s exciting when you do something for the first time, and it works.
Do you have any words of wisdom for other women or girls?
Be confident and be yourself. If you want to do it, do it. Don’t let anyone tell you different. Do what you want to do, and you’ll always be happy at the end of the day. Sometimes you have to be a bit brave.
International Women’s Day takes place in March each year and highlights the achievements of women around the world. This year it focuses on inspiring the inclusion of women in areas where they may not be fully represented, to give them the opportunity to reach their full potential. #InspireInclusion
Read about the female CEO at the top of her game in the ag industry.