Robotics and sustainable tech took centre stage on 31 July, as the GroundsFest Academy pursued its mission to upskill the industry with another free educational day, held at Lantra House, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.
The CPD-accredited event brought together the Academy, Husqvarna, Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) and awarding body Lantra to highlight how innovation is transforming outdoor space management.
Contractors and council staff, colleges, airport grounds teams and greenkeepers enjoyed a hands-on, interactive experience, as robotic mowers, battery tools and automated line-markers were tested on a purpose-prepared green space. Expert-led talks explored current trends, training opportunities and the broader impact of green technology.
“This was our second free educational day and it’s incredible to see how far things have moved on in robotics and green technology in such a short time,” said Bradley Tennant, GroundsFest Academy director of education.
Getting out there
Simon Hughes, OAS line marking sales manager, said the event was “an ideal platform” to share fast-evolving tech with “the right people”. Systems and software could free up labour to do other tasks while robotics handle routine work. “Everything’s changing and we must get that across to customers, so it’s good to get out there.”
Delegates had asked “an abundance of questions”, said Husqvarna key account manager Adam Little, “which shows how engaged the group was. Demonstrating the machines on green space marked out like a football pitch gave people a feel for how they’d actually use them”.
Career guidance
The day also included career guidance and training insights from Lantra. “Whether you’re new to the industry or have been in it for years, there’s always more to learn,” said David Fisher, head of industry partnerships. “We’ve been pleased to host today’s event and share updates on our training and qualifications.”
Assessor in horticulture & sports turf at Wiltshire College Victoria Fiander such events “are so important for bringing new talent into our industry – showing the younger generation what technology is out there. It’s not just about cutting grass. It’s really important to stay up to date with emerging technology to help us with climate change and sustainability.”
Turning point
Nick Williams, estates & grounds maintenance team leader at Aspire Housing, said: “We went to a demo three or four years ago and the range [of robotics] just wasn’t there. But it’s come on in leaps and bounds. Now it feels like a real option for us. I’m going back to tell the team all about it, and hopefully we’ll invest in battery-powered kit.”
Des Porter, parks team leader at South Oxfordshire & Vale of White Horse District Councils, said: “Our grounds team is still quite old school – petrol and diesel – but our goal is to be fully electric by 2030. I’ve got some great information today and I’ll propose making that switch.”
With momentum building and the appetite for education clear, the GroundsFest Academy planned to continue offering free, accessible training to help the industry stay at the forefront of innovation, Bradley said.
“Everyone benefits when knowledge is shared in the right environment. We’re excited to keep pushing forward with more events like this and to help people at all levels get ready for the future. Everyone walked away with a smile on their face.”
Watch video highlights – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_4A8bdbfaY
www.groundsfestacademy.com