LE SILLON
A John Deere PublicationThe Operators Behind the New John Deere Excavators | Philson Ltd. | John Deere
Winter/Spring 2026
Need for Speed
Ace Operators Try Out The New 230 P-Tier Excavator
3 MIN READ
At a residential housing development near Chipman, New Brunswick, Canada, John Deere "test pilots" push the envelope in a new Deere 230 P-Tier Excavator. "I feel the need for speed," says Operator Charles "Payload" Sullivan, Philson LTD., as he climbs into the cockpit (okay, cab) and straps in. (With apologies to Philson, we assigned everyone call signs. Because, you know, test‑pilot school.)
Innovation doesn't just happen in the lab. It occurs in the field. As part of this elite John Deere Test Pilot program, operators across North America are putting cutting-edge machines through real-world trials.
The program helps Deere apply valuable customer input into the design of new excavators. Any time an operator likes or dislikes something, he or she can easily scan a QR code located in the excavator to provide Deere with machine feedback, which engineers use to fine-tune the prototype.
Philson was approached by John Deere about the program a year ago. A site development and water-and-sewer contractor, the company runs 12 Deere excavators along with five Deere articulated dump trucks and five bulldozers.
Philson has been running Deere machines for 30 years. "Our John Deere 35-ton [350 model] excavators are our workhorses," says Tanner "Top Dawg" Phillips, vice president of Philson. "We have several of them, and they're excellent machines. In my opinion, Deere machines are, pound for pound, the strongest machines."
The scrappy, nimble 230 P-Tier Excavator fits in nicely in a "fighter support" role. "We've had a great experience with the 230 P-Tier," Phillips says. "It's nice to have a smaller machine for tight areas that is perfect for backfill operations. "We were thrilled to be a part of this program," he adds. "The fact that John Deere wants to involve the customer in new product development makes us feel pretty good. Deere is a great company and a great partner. We feel it is an awesome way of giving back. I would encourage any contractor who has the opportunity to get involved."
"In my opinion, Deere machines are, pound for pound, the STRONGEST MACHINES."
The "Big Mini"
"I love the smell of diesel in the morning," says Curtis "Diesel" Rossignol, Philson senior superintendent and fleet manager. This sounds like a line from a Hollywood script (and perfect inspiration for a call sign), but his words genuinely reflect his love for the industry, which dates back almost three decades. "I haven't outgrown my sandbox. The toys are just bigger and more expensive."
Rossignol helped coordinate locations for the 230 P-Tier and recruit the test-pilot operators. "We've rotated numerous operators aged anywhere from their 20s to their 70s through the seat of the machine," says Rossignol. "We have an operator who is a double amputee who appreciated the accessibility of the cab and how he can check the oil from ground level."
The operators have been universally pleased with the excavator's performance. "Everyone is impressed with the 230 P-Tier's speed and lifting ability," says Rossignol. "Our guys call it the Big Mini." "It's fast and strong," adds Operator Lester "Bucket" Bailey. "It has lots of power and digs well. It's very smooth. The controls are spot-on and react quickly."
The Philson operators like the quick response provided by electric-overhydraulic controls. "It's a bit different than the normal hydraulic excavator," says Site Foreman Chris "Pit Boss" Aubin. "It's very quick. If you're experienced, you'll be very productive because it's so fast."
"It took me a bit to get used to the controls," says Steve "Old School" Gallant. "They're quicker than hydraulic, but once you get used to them, you're good to go."
The pro operators also appreciate the excavator's optional SmartGrade™ grade-management system. They can set and hold the grade while controlling the arm as the machine automatically controls the boom and bucket. "You're not over-digging and wasting materials," Gallant says. "It also helps you avoid hitting pipes and utilities."
Gallant also likes that the new monitor lets each operator set his own PIN: "You can set different parameters so the levers and boom operate the way you want them to each time you enter the machine."
Many of the 230 P-Tier operators experimented with the machine's virtual-fence feature. "You can set boundaries that will trigger an alert when the boom and bucket get near them," reports Sullivan. "It will just stop your boom so you will avoid hitting a nearby object, such as a pole or power line."
The test-pilot experience has gone smoothly. "Communication with the factory has been great," says Rossignol. "Service from our local dealer, Brandt Equipment, has been excellent. And for a prototype machine, there haven't been major issues. We appreciate the opportunity."
Philson LTD. is serviced by Brandt Equipment, Hanwell, New Brunswick, Canada.
-
A John Deere 230 P-Tier excavator sits before a tree line, its boom arm spotlight casting a shadow on the ground.
-
The John Deere 850 L-Tier XLT Dozer lowers its blade, preparing to grade dirt and create a level surface.
Related Articles
Think readers would dig your story?
You could be featured in an upcoming edition of The Dirt. To be considered, just tell us a bit about yourself and your story idea by filling out this form.