Will Nelson has always had a knack for machinery, and four years into his agricultural apprenticeship with McIntosh & Son, that aptitude has taken him somewhere he never expected — trackside with Red Bull Ampol Racing.
Will, a fourth-year agricultural apprentice based at McIntosh & Son's Narrogin branch, joined the Red Bull Ampol Racing pit crew at the Perth Super 440 at Wanneroo Raceway, as part of New Holland's apprentice program that recognises its exceptional service apprentices.
"It was a really good experience. They had me working with the tyres and helping get everything sorted for the team. I was there for three days and learned a lot from the boys," Will said.
"It's something most people never get to see, so that was pretty special."
A highlight of the weekend came when Broc Feeney took the win.
"When Broc Feeney won, we got to go up on stage with him and get photos with the whole team. They really took us in as one of their own, which was awesome."
Will's apprenticeship has taken him across two of McIntosh & Son's branches, starting at Katanning before moving to Narrogin six months later, where he's worked primarily on New Holland equipment. As of this year, he has been qualified as a mechanic at the branch.
"I mainly work with New Holland gear, along with the Miller Nitros. I've built up pretty solid knowledge on New Holland headers and tractors now," Will said.
"I started out at the Katanning branch before moving across to Narrogin about six months later. I've worked my way up with a bit of support from the team and the boss when I need it."
Will said the Narrogin team has been a great place to build his career.
"It's a great place to work. We've got a young crew, so there's always a bit of fun to go with the hard work. I like the variety, you really get to do a bit of everything.”
With harvest season approaching, Will and the team are already deep in preparation. "We're deep into pre-season work at the moment, getting everything ready for harvest," he said.
McIntosh & Son Narrogin Service Manager, Byron Blevin, said Will has become a standout member of the team.
"Will consistently puts his hand up during busy periods and never hesitates to take on additional responsibilities when the workshop or field service department is under pressure," Byron said.
"Whether it means working extended hours, responding to urgent breakdowns, or assisting other technicians to ensure jobs are completed on time, Will continually demonstrates a selfless attitude that places the needs of the company and its customers first.
"Beyond his own performance, Will has become an excellent role model for younger apprentices within the dealership. He is always willing to assist others, share knowledge, and help develop the skills of fellow apprentices."
Will is one of six exceptional apprentice service technicians who will get to experience race day action at Supercars races across Australia and New Zealand this year, thanks to New Holland's sponsorship of the Red Bull Ampol Racing team.
The program is open to service apprentices working across New Holland Agriculture's network of 125 Australian and New Zealand dealerships, where Dealer Principals or Service Managers nominate outstanding apprentices.