A former apprentice aircraft mechanic, Andrew Moat, has now well and truly found his feet working on John Deere Construction & Forestry equipment in Derrimut.
Andrew won the Australian Construction & Forestry Service Technician category award at the 2024 John Deere Technician of the Year Awards, a result which came as a shock to the 35-year-old.
After completing an apprenticeship as an aircraft mechanic, Mr Moat switched gears to undertake a diesel mechanic apprenticeship and work on heavy machinery.
“I really didn’t think I was going to win, so I couldn’t quite believe it when my name was read out,” he said.
“I was surprised but also dreading getting up to make a speech in front of 200 people!
“The best part of my job is going onto site when a customer’s machine isn’t working and when you leave it is. Really, I just love getting people going again.”
One person not surprised by Andrew’s success was one of his customers, Scott Oldfield from Roadstone Recycling.
“‘Moaty’ has been a breath of fresh air in helping us through servicing and maintaining our equipment, particularly in the difficult environments we work in,” Mr Oldfield said.
“He is super responsive, and the way he interacts with our team is awesome. He is proactive in reminding us of upcoming services or any possible issues with our gear.
“Trust is not a word I throw around a lot, but I trust Andrew to get the job done and get it done right, and if there is a hold up, I trust that he is doing his best to get us going.
“I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of this award. Andrew embodies what service is all about.”
Gerald Lynch
