Modern Mining February 2022

QCTO and relevant SETAs, and offers a range of training qualifications, from plant/machine operation, through occupational trades and apprenticeship to soft skills, giving learners the best possible chance for employment. As part of the Babcock International Group, Babcock ensures that its students have access to the latest industry technologies. Course facilitators are developed from within the group and have a firm understanding of its customers’ operational needs. “We also offer programmes which provide our learners with the opportunity to gain experience from other Babcock businesses. Our partnerships with OEMs like Volvo, DAF, SDLG, Sennebogen and Lincoln Electric ensure that our course mate- rial exceeds industry standards. Couple this with Babcock’s ISO quality certification, commitment to ongoing training, and the close relationships we have with our OEMs, and it’s easy to understand why Babcock is trusted to deliver,” says Vaughan. 

The offering helps Babcock customers safe- guard traditional credit facilities for other capital requirements by opting for financial services such as instalment sales agreements and finance leases from VFS. Plans are also afoot to launch a Volvo-backed insurance product that will offer Babcock custom- ers protection against financial risks through a range of insurance packages for Volvo Construction Equipment and SDLG machinery, tailored specifically to client needs and adapted to local conditions. Training and skills development Babcock represents premium brands that are at the cutting edge of product development; constantly enhancing and advancing their product ranges in line with the latest technology developments. This, in turn, requires that Babcock staff (sales and techni- cians, in particular) are well versed with the workings and offerings of the latest products. “For example, prior to the local launch of the Volvo R100E rigid hauler in 2018, the technical and sales staff underwent extensive product training at the factory in Scotland. This ensures that our staff are equipped with the highest level of training possible enabling us to deliver sound after-market service to our clients. Operators also went through a rigorous training programme to ensure that the machines would be operated at their highest level of efficiency and deliver optimum productivity,” explains Vaughan. Aside from product-specific training, the com- pany has a separate division – Babcock Education and Training – an accredited skills development and training services provider with accreditation from

Take-aways  Demand for Babcock’s range of construction and mining equipment is high and the company has a solid order-book going into 2022  Products offered by the company are specifically designed for challeng- ing mining applications and excel in the toughest mining conditions  The company prides itself on its after-market support service and focuses on long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships.  A direct financing portal provides integrated financial solutions to Babcock’s South African customers  Students have access to the latest industry technologies and the highest quality training

February 2022  MODERN MINING  15