Rory Ferguson, 19, is the second student to take advantage of RANSOMES JACOBSEN’s scholarship programme to help promote careers in the grounds care industry. RANSOMES JACOBSEN is a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company. 

He is on a year’s placement at the Ipswich-based turf equipment manufacturer and, under the watchful eye of Norman Fenwick, Course Manager at Ipswich Golf Club, he will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the company’s three-hole golf course, which is nearing the end of its grow-in period. 

In September he begins a day release programme studying at Writtle College near Chelmsford for his NVQ Level 3 qualification in Sportsturf Management. Together with his greenkeeping duties he will also be responsible for product demonstrations during customer visits at the company’s European head office and manufacturing facility.

The previous beneficiary of the scholarship was Marcus Fuller, 18, who recently completed a year at Ipswich Town Football Club, under the tutelage of Grounds Manager Alan Ferguson as well as attending Otley College, where he studied for a diploma in Horticulture. 

David Withers, Managing Director of Ransomes Jacobsen said, “As a major player in the grounds care sector we are committed to raising the profile of the industry and promoting worthwhile careers. We want young people to be aware that they have excellent and varied opportunities for employment in a sector that many overlook, but one that needs skilled and highly trained professionals to carry out the challenging tasks of caring for our outdoor environment.

“Marcus, and now Rory, have both shown their commitment to careers in the industry and we are delighted to reciprocate with our support.”

Ransomes Jacobsen is a subsidiary of Textron Inc., a $13.2 billion multi-industry company operating in 34 countries with approximately 44,000 employees. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Fluid & Power, Textron Systems and Textron Financial Corporation. More information is available at www.textron.com.