Member Article

Pioneering farming technician appointed to Menter a Busnes' board

A dairy farmer’s son with a passion for technology has joined a growing economic development firm’s board.

Tom Allison, from Cardigan in West Wales, joins Menter a Busnes as a non-executive director with vast experience in promoting the use of technology in livestock agriculture.

After graduating with a degree in electronics and applied electrical engineering from Bath University, Tom returned home where he fused his technical skills with a love for farming.

He began visiting agricultural sites across Wales to help farmers use cutting edge technology to improve farm performance including working on milking machine enhancements to improve animal welfare.

His talents earned him a place in the inaugural Agri Academy run by Farming Connect, a Welsh Government service delivered by Menter a Busnes.

At the academy he was able to further his knowledge on trips to see farming technology in Holland. In 2015, he was awarded a Nuffield Farming Scholarship to study why and how technology on livestock farms is often under used.

Today he runs his own consultancy business, which advises the agricultural sector on technical solutions in the UK, Europe and the USA.

Tom said: “Menter a Busnes’ growth has been terrific as it now employs more than 100 people with a turnover of £9 million.

“I believe Welsh farming has the potential to be the best in the world.

“My connection with the industry is personal as both sides of my family have heritage rooted in farm work.

“There are challenges ahead, but Iam confident that farms in Wales have a bright future. I’m delighted to be offered an opportunity to share my experiences and knowledge with the industryvia my role on the Menter a Busnes board.”

Elen Williams, Menter a Busnes director said: “Tom is a fantastic addition to our board as his eye for innovation and global experience in delivering services to the agricultural sector will help us expand further.

“He will help us continue to deliver outstanding support to individuals, groups and small to medium sized businesses across Wales.”

Find out more at www.menterabusnes.co.uk

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sam Harris .