In this episode of Landwards, host Andy Newbold interviews Jonathan Gill, a farm innovation specialist at the UK Agri-Tech Centre. They discuss Jonathan's journey from a curious child fascinated by mechanics to a professional in agricultural engineering. The conversation covers his educational challenges, the impact of technology in farming, and the importance of continuous learning and human intuition in the field. Jonathan shares insights on the Hands-Free Hectare project, current projects at the Agri-Tech Centre, and offers advice for aspiring agricultural engineers.

Jonathans Takeaways

Jonathan's early curiosity about mechanics shaped his career.

Overcoming dyslexia was a significant challenge in his education.

Hands-Free Hectare project exemplifies innovation in agriculture.

Robotics and automation are key to modern farming practices.

Real-world applications of technology are crucial in agriculture.

Continuous learning is essential for career growth in ag engineering.

The importance of human intuition in agricultural technology.

AI can enhance farming but should not replace human decision-making.

Sustainability is a core focus in agricultural engineering.

Agricultural engineering offers diverse and rewarding career opportunities.

Sound bites

"I always liked to take things apart."

"I was a late bloomer in education."

"I absolutely love what I do."

Keywords

Agricultural Engineering, Innovation, Robotics, Farming Technology, Education, Career Development, Sustainability, Precision Agriculture, AI in Agriculture, Hands-Free Hectare

Episode notes:

In this edition, Tim Chamen shares his extensive journey in agricultural engineering, discussing his background, education, and the evolution of agricultural machinery. He highlights the importance of soil health, innovations like controlled traffic farming, and the development of gantry systems. Tim emphasizes the need for continuous inquiry and adaptation in agricultural practices to meet modern challenges and environmental concerns. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring engineers in the field.

Takeaways

Tim's journey in agricultural engineering began with a passion for soil and machinery.

Education played a crucial role in shaping Tim's career path.

Innovations in agricultural machinery can significantly improve soil health.

Controlled traffic farming is a revolutionary approach to soil management.

Gantry systems offer a promising future for sustainable agriculture.

Tim emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and inquiry in engineering.

Recognition and awards can validate one's contributions to the field.

Environmental considerations are essential in modern agricultural practices.

Agricultural engineering encompasses a wide range of technologies and solutions.

Aspiring engineers should embrace curiosity and seek to make a positive impact.

Tims soundbites:

"Ask the question, why?"

"The world is your oyster."

"Never stop acting, never stop inquiring."

Keywords

Agricultural Engineering, Soil Cultivation, Controlled Traffic Farming, Agricultural Innovations, Gantry Systems, Environmental Impact, Agricultural Machinery, Soil Health, Engineering Education, Sustainable Agriculture

UK Country Manager for METOS, David Whattoff, takes Landwards Editor Andy Newbold through what makes him tick, the value of curiosity for engineers and how 'somebodies problem, is someone else's solution'.

He suggests collecting business cards, and that often the quietest person in the room has a lot to say.

Listen and find out more.

Part 2 of a 2 part recording with most of the 2025 IAgrE Award winners, recorded live (with apologies for varying levels of background noise) at AGCO's Abbey Park, UK HQ.

In this episode listen to:

David Yates EngTech MIAgrE - IAgrE Institution Meritorious Award

Chris Watts CEng CEnv FIAgrE - IAgrE Institution Meritorious Award

Martin Parsons Ceng CEnv FIAgrE and Jo Finlow of the Holme Fen Restoration Project - The Environmental Engineer Team Award

Dr Paula Misiewicz AMIAgrE - The Presidents Award 2025

Professor Simon Pearson FIAgrE - The IAgrE Award of Merit

Part 1 of a 2 part recording with most of the 2025 IAgrE Award winners, recorded live (with apologies for varying levels of background noise) at AGCO's Abbey Park, UK HQ.

In this episode listen to:

David Goodchild EngTech TIAgrE - IAgrE CNH Industrial Student Undergraduate Award

Luke Waldram MEng, AMIAgrE - IAgrE CNH Industrial Student Undergraduate Award

Tom Ablitt TIAgrE - IAgrE Student Project Award

Hywel Jones TIAgrE - IAgrE Student Project Award

Daniel Mitchell MSc HAU - Environmental Engineer Award

Wrapped up by a reflection from IAgrE President Elect on the challenges to agricultural engineers.

Staffordshire farmer and agricultural engineer, Andrew Court in conversation with Landwards editor, Andy Newbold, discusses the spark which ignited his passion for all things engineering and agriculture.

He explains how the farming benefits from his agricultural engineering approach.

Listen for the full story.

An engineer with a global career and impact, Professor Dick Godwin, in conversation With Landwards editor Andy Newbold, regarding his career in agricultural engineering.

Dick reflects on being inspired to pursue his chosen career, by way of an inspiring teacher, the Chicago riots of 1968 and learning the maxim of 'publish or perish'.

In his own words 'They haven't invented the digital spade yet'.

With apologies for the variable sound quality, it was very busy.

Andy Newbold, editor of Landwards in conversation with:

• IAgrE CEO Charlie Nicklin tells us whats floating his boat at the show;
• Award winning engineer Brian Knight (3:16) tells us when his ideas come;
• Oliver Wood from Omnia (5:43) explains how he is living in a digital world whilst scratching the surface of AI;
• Recruitment consultant Jim Garrod (11:15) is clear about how you can help your chances when it comes to a job change;
• Merlo UK's Shaun Groom (13:13) takes the temperature of this years show;
• Farmers Guardians Machinery and Technology Editor Toby Whatley (16:10), gets excited about awards and digs deep into hydrogens prospects for ag.