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On Tuesday, October 8, high school students from across Chicagoland took significant steps toward careers in the equipment industry by learning essential diesel engine repair skills, trying their hand at operating equipment, polishing interview techniques, and connecting with industry leaders.

Hosted by AEDF in collaboration with SkillsUSA Illinois and its Youth Workforce Development Foundation (YWDF), the Industry Pathways: Career Experience brought more than 500 students from 20 regional schools and career centers together with employers and unions. These young participants received firsthand insights into careers as diesel technicians and equipment operators, helping address the equipment industry’s critical workforce needs.

This event, held at Johnsburg High School, was made possible by $8 million in federal funding that the YWDF and AEDF secured as part of the Apprenticeships Build America program earlier this summer. These funds support workforce development initiatives that engage youth across the country, demonstrating AEDF’s ongoing commitment to developing a skilled workforce that meets national demand.

Throughout the day, students engaged in hands-on experiences, operating machinery, participating in mock job interviews, and building connections with potential employers actively seeking new talent.

“The AED Foundation is committed to equipping the next generation with skills and opportunities,” said Sean Fitzgerrel, vice president, AEDF. “We thank the Youth Workforce Development Foundation, the federal government and our industry partners for supporting our vision to bring real career opportunities to students across the nation. Together, we are raising awareness and building the essential connections that will strengthen and secure the future of a skilled workforce in our industry.”

Metallica, Carhartt Band Together To Support Skilled Trades

AED Hosts Fifth Annual Women in Equipment Conference

October 8, 2024 Johnsburg Pathways Event Participants:

Spartan Mowers revealed new models and product upgrades on Sept. 9 during its National Dealer Meeting in Jacksonville, FL. Additions to the lineup include the redesigned Shield, Shield-HD, and Defender, along with the RZ-XD and RZXD Blackout.

Entry-level options of the Shield and Shield-HD are available in 42″ or 54″decks with a Kawasaki 23HP engine. Both models feature Hydro-Gear transmissions, 20″ Carlisle Turf Armor rear tires, a five-inch cut height, and a top speed of seven miles per hour.

The Defender is an all-new model with folding ROPS, full-beam LED light kit, 22″ Carlisle Turf Armor rear tires, premium seat, and top speed of eight miles per hour. Deck sizes include 48″, 54″, or 60″ along with Kawasaki engines of either 23HP or 24HP.

The brand-new RZ-XD is a step up from the best-selling RZ-HD with a Kawasaki FX730 23.5HP engine, 24″ Reaper tires on the rear, and a suspension seat. Then the RZ-XD Blackout takes this series to an entirely different level with a Kawasaki FX801 25.5HP engine, 24″ radial comfort tires, premium suspension seat, and a custom blackout design.

Upgrades across the lineup include a common frame between RZ, RT, SRT, and KGZ mowers. In addition to enabling all mowers in these series to have a hitch, a common frame allows for easier maintenance with newly designed bolt-on components that simplify serviceability, and eliminate the need for a full-frame replacement.

Height of cut changes involve a new ergonomic foot peg to comfortably adjust the deck height, as well as a new transport lock mechanism that allows the user to securely lock the deck in the transport position. Other user-experience enhancements include more ergonomic, responsive control of the drive arms, a new seat latch allowing effortless one-handed operation, and standard suspension upgrades to the SRT-XD and KGZ-XD models.

Electrical upgrades were designed to enhance both functionality and ease of use. A new hour meter provides engine hour tracking that only records time when the engine is running. Additionally, the hour meter features a tachometer that provides real-time engine RPM information on the display. Other improvements include a sealed fuse box and optimized wire lengths to reduce clutter and simplify the electrical system.

Last—but not least—model year 2025 decks have been modified to improve cut discharge and enhance the processing of grass clippings by adjusting the spindle location and baffle positioning. Deck durability will also be boosted with thicker baffles of seven-gauge steel.

The complete 2025 lineup includes the Shield, Shield-HD, Defender, RZ-HD, RZ-XD, RZ-XD Blackout, RT-Pro, RT-HD, SRT-XDe, SRT-XD, and the KGZ-XD. Spartan Mowers are only sold through authorized independent dealers. In addition to standard features, accessories and upgrades are also available for increased comfort, functionality, and style.

For previous Turf Magazine coverage of Spartan Mowers products, click here.

Safe workplaces aren’t created by accident. Keeping your employees safe, productive, and engaged in their work takes effort and planning. 

With that in mind, JLG Industries, Inc. is offering employers a new whitepaper, Adopting a Culture of Safety. In the report, the manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms and telehandlers outlines six steps companies can take to create a safe, productive workplace.

In this new whitepaper, JLG offers the following steps companies can take to adopt a safety culture within their organizations, and encourages companies to make them a fundamental part of their organization’s operations and a critical component of its long-term success. 

Building on the concepts and strategies outlined in its earlier whitepaper, 10 Tips for Creating a Safety-Focused Work Culture, JLG points out in the Adopting a Culture of Safety whitepaper that creating and maintaining a workplace safety culture go beyond following OSHA standards, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), following training videos, having safety captains and issuing incident reports. The most effective workplace cultures aren’t the error-free ones. They are the ones who are relentless in their effort to learn and improve from mistakes as they happen — and, most importantly, they work to prevent them from happening in the first place. 

You can download the full Adopting a Culture of Safety whitepaper from the JLG website.

Click here for more news and information about safety on the job. 

 The National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) has announced the recipients of its 2024 Leadership Awards. The awards will be presented on November 4 in Charlotte, NC, during NALP’s annual ELEVATE conference.

“The NALP Leadership Awards recognize the incredible dedication of these outstanding individuals who have made lasting contributions to our industry,” said Britt Wood, CEO of NALP. “Each of these professionals —Jeff Buhler, Brigitte Orrick, Nick Brummel, and Nate Farley—exemplify what it means to innovate, advocate, and inspire others within the landscape profession. We are grateful for their commitment and leadership.”

Pictured (L to R): Jeff Buhler, Brigitte Orrick, Nick Brummel and Nate Farley

Jeff Buhler – 2024 Lifetime Leadership Award
Jeff Buhler, Senior Vice President of Customer Service at Massey Services, receives NALP’s Lifetime Leadership Award for his enduring dedication to NALP and the industry. Buhler’s career is highlighted by his commitment to serving on NALP’s board as its president and leading numerous non-profit organizations. With a passion for developing company culture and leveraging technology to enhance customer experiences, Buhler has played a vital role in the success of Massey Services and sharing that knowledge with the industry.

Brigitte Orrick – 2024 Woman Leader of the Year Award 
Brigitte Orrick, Director of Talent Development at The Davey Tree Expert Company, is the recipient of NALP’s Woman Leader of the Year Award. Orrick’s passion for talent development and her advocacy for women and other minorities in the landscape, lawn care, and tree care industries have been instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusion. She has spearheaded initiatives like JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) at Davey Tree, creating a supportive environment for all employees. She continues to mentor and inspire the next generation of female leaders in the field.

Nick Brummel – 2024 Advocate of the Year Award
Nick Brummel, owner of Brummel Lawn & Landscape LLC, receives NALP’s Advocate of the Year Award for his passionate advocacy of the landscape industry. Brummel has been a vocal supporter of the H-2B visa program and pesticide protection. He has dedicated himself to educating clients, employees, and lawmakers on the importance of these issues to the industry.

Nate Farley – 2024 Young Professional of the Year Award 
Nate Farley, founder of Nationscapes, is the recipient of the 2024 Young Professional of the Year for his unique and transformative journey in the landscape industry. Starting his career as a CPA, Farley transitioned into the landscape business by acquiring and building a successful irrigation company. He is known for his innovative approach to employee care, including offering annual salaries with benefits, which has helped retain and engage talent. 

NALP’s 2024-2025 Board of Directors Announced

For NALP ELEVATE Registration information, click here.

The Navimow robotic mower is Segway’s first entry into the lawn care and landscaping industry. With the goal of offering autonomous solutions for commercial landscapers and homeowners alike to reduce labor costs and save valuable time in mind; Segway Navimow aims to broaden their scope and be recognized for more than just personal transportation.

In the podcast below, Turf Magazine‘s Managing Editor, Jessica Schwartz, talks with Wayne Kreifels, Head of Sales for North America at Segway Navimow. Kreifels will discuss their entrance into the North American robotic mower market , distribution, and what attendees should expect to see from them both inside and outside in the Demo Yard at this year’s Equip Expo in Louisville, Kentucky from October 15-18th.  

Click here to listen to our conversation with Wayne. Then, feel free to share your thoughts, experiences, or questions on this topic in the Comment section below. This podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, Samsung Podcasts, and Podchaser.

Bobcat Company has introduced its all-new TL623 telehandler, a telescopic tool carrier loaded with premium performance and comfort features not found on other standard-equipped telehandlers.

The TL623 offers the extended reach and superior lift capacity of a heavy-duty telescoping boom combined with Bobcat’s leading multi-attachment versatility. With the TL623, operators can tackle a wide range of jobs with one machine. Reach high and stack, then quickly change attachments to take the TL623 telehandler’s productivity beyond pick-and-place tasks.

Exceptional Performance

The TL623 has a lift capacity of 6,000 lbs. and a lift height of 23′ for exceptional power and productivity with every demanding lift cycle. The advanced Tier 4, turbo-charged engine delivers powerful, high-torque performance, excellent efficiency, and achieves emissions compliance without the use of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) or selective catalyst reduction (SCR). Operators will also appreciate the engine’s reliable cold weather starting, along with a variety of features that make maintenance and service more convenient.

Five operation modes give operators the versatility needed for a wide variety of applications:

ECO mode allows operators to maintain hydraulic performance without using the engine’s full power—working with lower rpm, less noise and lower fuel consumption.

Smooth drive mode is ideal for maneuvering across job sites with mild acceleration and deceleration while carrying loads.

Dynamic drive mode increases responsiveness of the telehandler’s acceleration and deceleration for traveling between tasks.

Flex drive mode allows the operator to manage the engine speed independently from travel speed.

Advanced attachment control mode allows for full auxiliary hydraulic performance.

More Standard, Performance-Boosting Features
The TL623 is loaded with performance and comfort features designed to increase operators’ productivity. Along with the five operation modes, this workhorse also comes standard with the following performance-enhancing features:

Four steering modes for application-matched maneuverability

The Bobcat Smart Handling System for tailored boom movements via controls on the joystick

Power Bob-Tach® mounting system for quick and easy attachment changes

A spacious, high-visibility cab with an efficient HVAC system, an easy-to-read control panel, simple and intuitive controls, an air-suspension seat and an LCD screen that provides full-featured machine interaction and monitoring capabilities

Automatic Ride Control for reduced material spillage and faster travel speeds

7-Pin Attachment Control Device (ACD) for additional control and functionality in select attachments

Outstanding Comfort and Operability
The cab provides high visibility, excellent ergonomics, a comfortable air-suspension seat, efficient HVAC system and an easy-to-read 5″ LCD display panel—all of which come standard. Bobcat telehandler cabs are designed and tested to Roll-Over Protection Structure (ROPS) and Falling Object Protective Structure (FOPS) level II standards.

A single, intuitive joystick controls the travel direction, lift and tilt functions, boom extension and auxiliary hydraulics. This gives the operator fine adjustment for lifting loads with care. It also allows operators to manage several machine functions at the same time, enabling more precise control and higher productivity without having to remove their hand from the joystick.

Fingertip control access makes operation smooth, comfortable and easy. On the front side of the joystick, the directional switch for forward, neutral and reverse can be operated with the index finger. The 2-speed travel switch, lift-arm float, boom extension, machine function settings and auxiliary hydraulics are located on the rear of the joystick.

The low-profile boom sits below operator eye level to provide an open view of the surroundings. Front, top and rear window wipers help keep windows free of debris and precipitation. Mirrors on the operator’s left and right provide added visibility when working in confined areas. An optional rear mirror kit, rear view camera kit and boom work light kit also are available.

Unbeatable Uptime, Serviceability and Versatility
The TL623 is built with a robust box-welded frame for enhanced rigidity, plus a low center of gravity for optimal stability. The shielded bottom plate protects vital components, while the engine, cooling system and critical components are well-protected within the center of the chassis, ensuring minimal wear and tear due to job site obstacles or harsh terrain.

Engine compartment accessibility puts routine maintenance checks, filters and other engine components in easy reach, as well as the oil filter and other service points.

Featuring a Bob-Tach mounting system, operators can share select attachments with other Bobcat equipment for even greater versatility. From pallet forks and buckets to grapples and snowblowers, operators can conquer a variety of tasks without the need for specialty attachments.

The TL623 will be available at Bobcat dealerships across North America in Q4 2024. To find a local dealer, visit bobcat.com/dealer.

Snow Removal Equipment: Do More With Less This Winter

Ruppert Landscape has welcomed Richard Kang as President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). Kang will oversee both the North and South Divisions and become a key member of the company’s executive team. His focus will be on enhancing operational excellence, driving growth, and nurturing talent across the organization.

Richard Kang

Kang brings a wealth of experience from Republic Services, where he most recently served as Senior Vice President of Operations. Throughout his career at Republic, he held leadership roles including finance, business development, and operations, giving him a well-rounded perspective on scaling businesses. He is a collaborative leader who values working with engaged teams and has a strong commitment to developing talent. Kang’s focus on customer service, communication, safety, empowerment and community involvement closely aligns with Ruppert’s values. Before joining Republic Services, he was Director of Corporate Development & Strategy at Summit Materials, a company in the heavy-side construction materials industry. There, he gained expertise in valuation, identifying synergies, and ensuring seamless integration—skills that will be instrumental as Ruppert continues to grow.

Rich holds a BA in Economics from the University of Virginia and received an Executive Education in Leadership and Strategic Impact from Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business. In 2020, he received WASTE360’s 40 under 40 award, recognizing his significant contributions to the waste and recycling industry. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Rich to the team,” said Phil Key, CEO. “His people-focused leadership style, strong alignment with our company culture, and extensive experience in scaling service-based businesses make him an invaluable addition to our organization.”

For more Turf Magazine coverage of Ruppert Landscape‘s personnel moves, click here.

The Yardstick: Craig Ruppert, CEO & Founder of Ruppert Landscape.

Since it’s debut in 1995, Exmark’s first mid-mount zero-turn mower, the Lazer Z redefined the productivity, cut quality, durability, maneuverability, and ease of transport for commercial users. The state-of-the-art design helped landscape professionals do more work, quicker, and with less physical labor. This enabled them to earn more money throughout the season.

As the 30th anniversary of the Lazer Z series approaches, Exmark Vice President, Daryn Walters, said the mid-mount design of the Lazer Z, which places the cutting deck between the front caster wheels and rear drive wheels, was a game-changer.

“Our customers told us what they needed. Increased cut quality and maneuverability, faster mowing and maximum long-term durability, with less maintenance, were at the top of their list,” Walters said. “Armed with this knowledge, we had the roadmap, so we started testing, refining, retesting and finally, once the Lazer Z was ready, we released it to the world.

When launched, the Lazer Z was available in one configuration with a 60″ cutting deck. As the needs of its customers have evolved, Exmark has grown the Lazer Z line to include five series and a wide range of power and size options, from 48″- to 144″ cut width. Each offers the Exmark signature cut quality, legendary durability and unmatched long-term value.

While it’s rewarding to look back on the legacy the Lazer Z has created, Walters said he’s more excited about the innovations coming in the 2025 Lazer Z line.

Exmark will unveil its 2025 Lazer Z line, which includes not one, but three new redesigned machines at the Equip Expo show in Louisville, KY, October 15-18. To celebrate this exciting launch, Exmark is hosting a special giveaway! 100 lucky winners will receive exclusive Lazer Z Legacy T-shirts, and one grand prize winner will take home the all-new Lazer Z X-Series Mower.

Click for Turf Magazine‘s Get Equipped: Battery Power product spotlight, featuring Exmark‘s Lazer Z V Series Electric Zero-Turn Mower.

Exmark Introduces Vertex X-Series & Vertex E-Series Stand-On Mowers

Loftness® has expanded its line of Battle Ax® mulching heads with the new lightweight, yet heavy-duty 10 Series for compact excavators.

Ruppert Landscape has announced the appointment of Bob Jones as Chief Sales Officer to oversee business development efforts.