JCB is looking for an operator with the X Factor, during its Operator of the Year Challenge.

The winner of JCB's popular annual contest is in for a treat indeed, not only crowned Excavator Operator of the Year 2024, but also winning a trip for two to Las Vegas, with flights, hotel and spending money included.

With heats concluding in May, the challenge is taking place over a series of seven regional heats across the country hosted by JCB’s UK construction dealers. Three successful operators from each event will progress to the national final hosted at JCB’s Quarry on Monday 24th June. Alongside competing in the final face-off, each contestant will get a tour of the JCB factory and the 'Story of JCB' exhibition, as well as full hospitality and a stay at the JCB Golf & Country Club.

Operator James Herring of ZTL Earthworks has qualified for the final after finishing second in the recent heat held at ScotPlant 2024. He said: “JCB not only put on an excellent well laid out stand, but also included their own JCB UK Operator Challenge at ScotPlant. It required precision and speed and the X Series 245XR and 140X models really showcased how smooth and precise the hydraulics are. I was delighted to find out I’ve made the final and look forward to visiting JCB HQ.”

While only one can take the JCB Excavator Operator of the Year title, the top three contestants will be treated to a VIP trip to Hillhead as guests of JCB on June 25th. The runner up will win tickets for two for the Sunday of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone in the British Racing Drivers Club, while third place will scoop a two-night city break in London.

The challenge will take place in JCB’s X Series tracked excavator models and feature two timed activities that will test the operators’ precision and dexterity. Regional heats will take place in conjunction with the JCB dealer Dig Days across April and May.

Full details of the contest and the regional heats can be found at https://www.jcb.com/en-gb/campaigns/operator-challenge