Ag Industry Can Defer MELT Testing For Up To One Year

Sep 04, 2019

As of September 1, 2019, Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) will be the minimum training required to obtain a Class 1 driver's license here in Manitoba.

As Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) President Bill Campbell explains, there is a deferral option for the agriculture industry.

"My understanding is that you can take your Class 1 license and pass it but subsequent to that you still need to take the MELT testing, it's just the time frame for the ability to get the training at this point," he said. "We need ag workers to get a Class 1 license to get our crop to the bins and to the elevators and to get the movement of our crops."

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Video: Winter Service Inspections for John Deere Equipment - The FarmCast Ep64

The FarmCast, host Troy Randall speaks with Doug Luedke, Vice President of Service, and Davin Peterson, Executive Vice President of Aftermarket at 21st Century Equipment, to discuss the importance of proactive service and how it helps farmers reduce downtime during their busiest seasons. The conversation focuses on the Winter Service Inspection Program, a comprehensive approach designed to keep equipment running at peak performance and limit costly in-season breakdowns through preventative maintenance and expert technician support.

Doug and Devin explain how 21st Century Equipment’s service teams have evolved to meet the needs of today’s connected machines. With more technology and data integrated into modern equipment, technicians now play a vital role in both mechanical repairs and precision ag support. Through advanced diagnostics, machine monitoring, and John Deere’s Expert Alerts, they can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems—saving customers valuable time, money, and frustration.

Throughout the discussion, the team shares real-world success stories demonstrating how proactive inspections and customer-focused service help maximize uptime and efficiency for every operation. Whether it’s a large tractor, combine, or small mower, the goal remains the same: to provide trusted, reliable support that helps farmers and landowners stay productive and confident in their equipment year-round.