JCB is shaking up the construction industry once more - by driving a renewed focus on backhoe loader operator training.
A backhoe loader is one of the most versatile machines in construction, capable of handling a vast range of tasks. They are easy to use, have the capabilities for loading, roading and excavating and can master even more applications with the range of different attachments available. An excellent choice for all manner of different jobs and projects it means operators with a backhoe licence will always be a valuable asset on construction sites.
However, as a subplot to the UK’s wider construction skills shortage, in 2022 JCB identified a diminishing pool of qualified backhoe operators and less industry entrants seeking to attain their backhoe ticket. Misconceptions around the cost, difficulty and accessibility of the accreditation were proving a barrier.
JCB initiated a drive to address this challenge. Striving to increase backhoe operator training and make it affordable to anyone either wishing to enter the industry, expand their existing skills, or invest in futureproofing their workforce. Training that will keep this most versatile machine at the forefront of UK building sites. And training that places qualified operators in a real position of power to build lasting and lucrative careers.
A Game-Changing Campaign
JCB built a united front on promoting backhoe loader training though a network of 16 nationwide training partners and industry associations such as the CPCS, NPORS, CPA and the SPOA.
The results have been fantastic, with major gains in a short space of time. The CPCS and NPORS plant licensing accreditations schemes reported a 20% rise of ticketed 180 operators in 2023 versus 2022. Through the 16 partner centres more than 350 candidates have already been trained and tested since the initiative began.
Approximately one third of these are new to backhoe operation while the remainder are renewals which may well have been lost to the industry without these measures to make the training more accessible.
Sheffield Steel
One of the training partners is Sheffield-based K-Plant which delivers plant hire to local authorities and private sector companies across South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire. It also boasts an operator training centre and has chosen a JCB Platinum Edition backhoe loader as the perfect high specification machine to train the operators of the future.
JCB built the Platinum Edition backhoe loader to celebrate the 70th birthday of its iconic machine and the special anniversary edition boasts even more high-specification features than the original machine which launched in 1953.
Mark Kay | K-Plant Hire Owner
"They have plenty of power, they’re comfortable, the durability is excellent. It’s simply a great all-round machine so we feel it is really important that operators entering the industry develop the skills to operate them, including the servo controls, and can truly maximise their potential.
“We were delighted to secure one of these limited-edition models as it stands out from the crowd and gives us something rare and different in the fleet. The machine will definitely look the part when training and gives us a high specification machine that is perfect to get the young lads trained up on.”
Career Focus
JCB’s training partners such as K-Plant offer backhoe operator training courses for complete novices, tracked excavator operators looking to convert, or employers looking to upskill their team. Each one covers the essentials needed to take control of the machine - explaining everything from the basics of how a backhoe loader works to specialist and sector-specific skills.
JCB Applications & Training Manager - Backhoe Loader, Georgina Williams said: "JCB is proud to be the world's leading manufacturer of backhoe loaders - so we're committed to giving people across the UK the skills they need to master its operation.
“Each course combines theoretical aspects with predominantly practical work, giving people comprehensive knowledge of a backhoe’s operation, maintenance and safety. And as an added bonus, backhoe loaders are available with the same joystick patterns as an excavator – so it’s quite straightforward for 360 operators to widen their skills.
“Once the course is completed, participants will have more than a qualification. They'll have access to more opportunities, greater earning potential and new prospects for their career in construction.”
Backhoe To The Future
The backhoe loader is a stalwart of JCB’s extensive line-up of construction equipment owing to its versatility, productivity and power. The multifunctional model removes the need for additional machines, and eradicates the need for transport to site, so it is cost-saving too.
Pioneers of the concept, the JCB backhoe loader is the world’s bestselling machine in its class. Steeped in history it has undergone many iterations and improvements in its 70-year history. Yet at the hands of trainers like K-Plant, the machine is very much looking forward as it helps develops the operators of the future.