Specialist machine enhances forestry training at UHI Inverness
STUDENTS at the Scottish School of Forestry have gained valuable experience operating a forwarder machine provided for free by Komatsu Forest UK in Carlisle.
Nine students on the Forestry and Urban Woodland Operations Advanced course each spent a half-day operating the 27-tonne eight-wheel specialised heavy machine at the Balloch campus after completing significant hours of practice on the forwarder simulators.
Forwarders play a critical role in modern timber extraction, lifting and transporting felled logs from the forest to lorries on roadside loading points.
This particular machine was built in Sweden, boasts a 20-tonne load capacity and has clocked up 6,500 operating hours. The week-long loan to UHI Inverness has provided students with exposure to the type of equipment they are likely to operate during their careers.
The forestry school has a tractor that has forwarder capability, but forestry lecturer Andrew Smith, who specialises in machinery training, was keen for students to experience being behind the controls of a dedicated forwarder machine. Andrew said:
“The students have done really well on the forwarder, and I would say that the students who have spent more time on the simulators have got more out of it. It has been really good for them to get real-world experience, and it has allowed them to put their simulation work in practice. Many of them will be expected to operate these machines during their working lives, so this taster has been fantastic. It is really generous of Komatsu to provide this for the benefit of the students, and it emphasises the importance of developing good relationships with industry.”
Andrew also pointed out the forestry school’s newly completed yard area - built by staff members Matthew White and Colin Clark - made it possible to accommodate such a large machine.
Carrie Higgins, Tertiary Education Leader at UHI Inverness, said:
“We’re very grateful to Komatsu for lending us this forwarder. It has allowed our students a fantastic opportunity to develop practical skills that are highly sought after by employers, improving their job prospects and deepening their understanding of timber harvesting and logistics. It’s a clear example of how collaboration between education and industry can prepare the next generation of forestry professionals.”
Stephen Bellas, Managing Director at Komatsu Forest Ltd, said:
“Komatsu Forest Ltd was delighted to support the students’ development by providing both the machine and the simulator. As an industry, we all share the responsibility of inspiring and equipping the next generation to build a future in forestry. Komatsu Forest is proud to contribute to that effort and to help create clear pathways into a modern, innovative timber sector.’’