John Deere Names 2026 Technician of the Year Finalists
John Deere has announced the finalists for its 2026 Technician of the Year Awards, with 30 regional finalists being named in five award categories.
For the 2025 event, the build-up saw 88 nominees, being whittled down to 27 finalists and over 100 testing hours to win one of the six titles available in Parts and Service-related specialisation.
Whangārei, Northland field service technician, Bryce Dickson has cemented his place in John Deere’s history, becoming the first ever person to win an award for the thiard time at the annual gala dinner recently held in Brisbane.
Taking the trophy in the New Zealand Agriculture & Turf Service Technician Award category, Bryce said he was thrilled and surprised to win again at the fifth annual awards program.
“Every time it’s a different experience,” Dickson said. “It’s really mind blowing and exciting, and I love it. It’s a great competition to be involved in.”
It’s a significant achievement for someone whose high school career advisor said he wouldn’t succeed as a mechanic. Bryce ignored that advice and worked in the automotive industry before transitioning to ag machinery during the global financial crisis. While wishing he had started in the agriculture industry straight from school, his commitment to continuous learning, keeping up with the latest technologies, and his contact with customers is what makes him stand out as an excellent technician.
“Getting out in the field and working on machines, interacting with customers, is much better than being stuck in a workshop,” he said. “We’ve now got integrated displays and autonomy is coming soon. It’s awesome to see and learn about and I really love it when new tech arrives. It’s just learning about it that keeps you interested and focused.”
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JD Australia and New Zealand managing director Luke Chandler said the annual awards program was an important recognition of technicians’ skills and their vital contribution in the industries they serve.
“Once again, Bryce has shown exceptional technical knowledge, customer focus and ability to solve problems under pressure,” Chandler said.
“He’s keeping our customers moving every day and it’s fantastic to see his talent and hard work acknowledged.
“To reach the finals is a huge achievement and speaks volumes about the capability and commitment of each participant. Their professionalism and problem-solving ability ensure farmers, contractors and businesses can achieve more with their equipment,” he said.
JD Australia and New Zealand customer support business manager Marko Koelln said this year’s winners and finalists reflect the diversity of people entering and excelling in technical careers.
“Our finalists come from a wide range of backgrounds, with many starting their careers in different industries before finding their calling as technicians,” Koelln said. “What unites them all is a passion for learning, a drive to deliver great service, and a genuine connection to the customers and communities they support. That’s what makes these awards so important. They shine a light on the people who keep our customers running.”
