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“We first saw the auto-coupler in Holland around three years ago, and have tried various makes and models. However, we have been very impressed with the Cat Auto-Connect Quick-Coupler, its simplicity and robustness is what attracted us to it, along with its ability to protect all of the hydraulic couplings whilst not in use. It also fully automates tool exchange, which means our apprentices can change work tools in just a few seconds.”


Finning News also caught up with Paul, Apprentice Ambassador at AR Demolition: “I had never actually used Cat machines or attachments before this, but I have to say, the kit has lived up to my expectations. It’s a good feeling to get in to a brand new machine and feel like it’s really yours.


“The training we undertake at AR Demolition is excellent, there’s a heavy focus on health and safety and ensuring that we follow procedures and perfect our craft. I feel far more confident and competent now, which has allowed me to do my job better and be more productive.


“I do believe that there are a lot of prospects in the demolition industry, as there’s plenty of opportunities to grow into different roles. I


would definitely encourage more young people to enter the industry as, let’s face it, where else do you get to smash things up for a living!”


AR Demolition, a Warwickshire-based family-run business has taken the first step towards change with its Apprenticeship


Programme, supported by heavy investment in Cat® machines and attachments, more specifically the Cat Auto-Connect Quick-Coupler. Finning News visited AR Demolition’s Apprentice Day to speak to co-founder Richard Dolman, and Apprentice Ambassador, Paul Lancaster.


Richard: “The skills shortage has been at the forefront of conversations for several years now, and it’s only going to get worse – AR Demolition has made the decision to take control and grow our own talent, by introducing an apprenticeship scheme that encourages young people into the industry.


We’ve launched the scheme earlier in the year, and currently have six apprentices with four undertaking a bespoke, machinery led training programme. Our ambition is to nurture a new generation of talent and grow our own team of operators.


“It’s been incredibly important to show our new recruits how committed we are, which is why we have purchased brand new machinery and attachments specifically for apprentice training. To be honest, it was quite a long procurement process to try and find the best machines, but we eventually chose to purchase two Cat 320E machines.


“Not only is it far easier to purchase machinery and attachments from one supplier, the relationship we’ve built with Finning has ensured a smooth process, from enquiry through to delivery, in a very short time scale.


CAT AUTO-CONNECT QUICK-COUPLER


Cat Auto-Connect Quick-Coupler is a new generation of automated hydraulic couplers for Hydraulic Excavators. The Auto-Connect fully automates tool exchange, with the ability to change work tools quickly and is still based on the standard Quick-Coupler CW platform.


The Cat Auto-Connect coupler has a low construction height design that maintains an optimal breakout force as the geometry in the relationship between the work tool and the boom does not change.


It can support up to five hydraulic ports and is a fast, reliable and safe solution, eliminating oil spillages common with manual connections.”


Paul Lancaster Apprentice Ambassador, AR Demolition


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