Technical James Wilkinson,
Workshop Manager at the Buckinghamshire Golf Club, gives an insight into the life of a workshop technician and its
importance to the success of maintaining a successful fleet
I
n my busy role as workshop manager at Buckinghamshire Golf Club, I have learned a lot and have made some critical decisions. I have been asked to share some of my thoughts,
experiences and knowledge with you and to provide an insight into the life of a workshop technician. I will be covering subjects such as budget control, health and safety, training and education, management, machinery, workshop productivity, golf club investment.
Investment - why do we need it and why is it so important?
The workshop is the heart of the club, it’s where machines go for servicing, repairs, set-up, adjustment and grinding etc., and it’s a vital operation. In order for it to be a success, you need the right man for the job, the right equipment, the tools and the budget to be able to achieve the best results. As we all know, turf equipment is not cheap, no matter who the manufacturer, and it is vital that we keep our fleet in the best condition - to do this, we need investment from our club.
In most cases, golf clubs make a large investment in machines but tend to forget the long term investment in upkeep. Having and maintaining a large fleet of machinery is a big responsibility, so having the right guy with knowledge of turf equipment will mean that your golf course is maintained at the highest standard, as the machines will always be available and running to their optimum. Investment in the workshop and
Running a Workshop
technician is vital; it is important that the workshop is smooth running.
Controlling budgets - knowing what to spend and when?
Budgets are always a hot topic; Where do the funds go? How much do you have? When is the best time to spend it?
Luckily for me and our greenkeeping team, Buckinghamshire Golf Club understands the importance of running a very demanding workshop and the budgeting requirements that go with it.
Knowledge is power - it’s really important to pre-plan and have a schedule of tournaments which are being held, and when maintenance weeks are, as these are the times I have to carefully monitor my budget.
I also have to plan when to order bulk fuel and maintenance items, as well as when to order parts for winter and summer servicing. I also liaise with my boss on anything that may be happening that I might not be aware of, which allows me to be prepared and informed of monthly funds available.
Health & Safety - maintaining compliance
Health and safety is ongoing, but one of the most important things that I come across every day, and it’s not just in the workshop; it’s in our large compound and surroundings and also effects our staff. Being ahead of the game is a tough task, but one that must not be forgotten. Talking about health and safety can be frightening and daunting task, but it
doesn’t have to be.
Finding information is relatively easy and free. Having the internet is a blessing, as there are many websites, links, forums and discussion groups that can help. I have found the most helpful to be the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) website, which provides all the information you need to operate in line with guidelines and current legislation. If I’m ever unsure on a specific issue, I email their helpline and they always reply with a helpful answer which you know is correct and compliant with current regulations.
I’m always thinking of new ways I can improve my workshop to make it more professional, safer and more productive, therefore making health and safety so much easier. Knowing that your workshop, compound and staff are using safe practices, and that you are ensuring your company is compliant, makes the running of a workshop a much nicer and easier place to work.
Training and education - keeping ahead
A topic that I love - ‘training and education’ are words that are of importance to anyone wanting to learn and progress. I think learning on the whole in the sports sector is second to none, as every day is a learning day in this profession. I constantly strive to do better and to stay ahead of the game which, in turn, makes my department run more efficiently, reduces downtime and budget. I also enjoy teaching staff on
130 PC APRIL/MAY 2013
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80 |
Page 81 |
Page 82 |
Page 83 |
Page 84 |
Page 85 |
Page 86 |
Page 87 |
Page 88 |
Page 89 |
Page 90 |
Page 91 |
Page 92 |
Page 93 |
Page 94 |
Page 95 |
Page 96 |
Page 97 |
Page 98 |
Page 99 |
Page 100 |
Page 101 |
Page 102 |
Page 103 |
Page 104 |
Page 105 |
Page 106 |
Page 107 |
Page 108 |
Page 109 |
Page 110 |
Page 111 |
Page 112 |
Page 113 |
Page 114 |
Page 115 |
Page 116 |
Page 117 |
Page 118 |
Page 119 |
Page 120 |
Page 121 |
Page 122 |
Page 123 |
Page 124 |
Page 125 |
Page 126 |
Page 127 |
Page 128 |
Page 129 |
Page 130 |
Page 131 |
Page 132 |
Page 133 |
Page 134 |
Page 135 |
Page 136 |
Page 137 |
Page 138 |
Page 139 |
Page 140 |
Page 141 |
Page 142 |
Page 143 |
Page 144 |
Page 145 |
Page 146 |
Page 147 |
Page 148 |
Page 149 |
Page 150 |
Page 151 |
Page 152 |
Page 153 |
Page 154 |
Page 155 |
Page 156