More than 400 companies filled the Expo Hall at GEAPS Exchange 2025. Photos by Craig Bares Photography.
Grain professionals from across the globe converged for GEAPS Exchange 2025, held Feb. 22-25 at the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, MO. Celebrated as the grain industry’s largest and most significant gathering, GEAPS Exchange 2025 showcased the latest advancements, industry insights, and networking opportunities, reinforcing its status as a vital event in grain handling and processing.
The Expo Hall was filled with more than 400 exhibitors representing a comprehensive array of cutting-edge equipment, technologies, and services. Participants had hands-on experiences through interactive demonstrations, including compelling grain entrapment rescue simulations, highlighting critical safety practices. Attendees engaged enthusiastically in small-group discussions focused on core industry areas, such as grain operations, safety procedures, employee development, and processing techniques.
GEAPS members enjoyed complimentary admission to the Expo Hall and were treated to lunch each day, enhancing the networking experience and fostering deeper professional connections.
Introducing a new Grain Processing Track
A significant innovation at GEAPS Exchange 2025 was the introduction of a dedicated Grain Processing educational track. This specialized programming attracted processing professionals by providing in-depth explorations into emerging trends and critical industry practices, particularly ethanol production and soybean crush. As highlighted by John Caupert, GEAPS executive director, the addition of this track positioned GEAPS Exchange as “the must-attend conference of the year,” meeting the demands of evolving industry landscapes and underscoring the organization’s responsiveness to sector-specific educational needs.
The educational component commenced with an insightful keynote from Pamela Barnum, whose career experience spans more than two decades in the criminal justice system as both an undercover officer and federal prosecutor. Barnum provided tangible strategies designed to help leaders translate their intentions into impactful actions, generating enthusiasm and actionable insights among attendees. The popular Idea Exchange program returned as an immediate follow-up, featuring innovative products and progressive solutions from industry peers. These presentations sparked meaningful conversations, knowledge-sharing, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities.
Celebrating Industry Excellence
In recognition of remarkable contributions and outstanding leadership within the grain industry, GEAPS proudly honored Mark Avery with the prestigious Industry Leader award. Avery, a pivotal figure in the industry through his influential leadership at Grain Journal, was recognized for his tireless advocacy for safety standards, operational excellence, and robust communication.
His extensive service, including his influential roles on multiple GEAPS committees, chapters, and boards, underscored his dedication and the extensive impact he has had across the grain handling community. The ceremony, attended by industry peers and admirers, marked a poignant moment celebrating Avery’s unwavering commitment and profound industry contributions.
Additionally, GEAPS recognized the exceptional recruitment efforts of Scott Brittingham from Mountaire Farms Inc., who earned the distinction of GEAPS’ Top Recruiter for the fourth consecutive year.
Brittingham successfully recruited six new members, exemplifying extraordinary dedication to expanding GEAPS’ membership base and reinforcing the organization’s value across the industry. His consistent advocacy for GEAPS exemplifies the passionate commitment necessary to sustain organizational growth and vitality.
Professional Development and Educational Initiatives
To promote ongoing professional development beyond the event, GEAPS introduced an enticing educational offer – a 50% discount on all GEAPS online courses available through March 20. This initiative aimed to extend learning opportunities, encouraging attendees to continue their professional growth after GEAPS Exchange concluded.
Jim Lenz, GEAPS director of training and education, emphasized the importance of ongoing education in maintaining industry excellence, highlighting this offer as an excellent opportunity for both members and non-members to further enhance their industry knowledge.
GEAPS also introduced two innovative educational tools designed to support new industry entrants and enhance communication across the sector. The new interactive “Welcome to the Grain Industry” course provided foundational knowledge for newcomers, focusing on key industry operations, safety measures, and career pathways. Alongside this, the launch of the comprehensive GEAPS Glossary offered a unified language resource, streamlining terminology for improved communication and operational efficiency. Both tools reflect GEAPS’ proactive approach to workforce development, aimed at cultivating a knowledgeable, skilled, and unified grain industry community.
Highlighting Future Leaders:
Golden Ticket Winners
GEAPS Exchange 2025 marked the debut of the International Oil Mill Superintendents Association (IOMSA) Golden Ticket Award, recognizing and supporting emerging industry talent. The inaugural winners – Katherine Johns, Cargill Inc.; Daniel Kleine, South Dakota Soybean Processors; Julia Nester, Consolidated Grain and Barge; Lance Schreiber, Ringneck Energy; and Ryan Slama, CHS Inc. – each received complimentary registration and travel stipends to facilitate their attendance and participation at the conference.
Their selection highlighted the industry’s commitment to nurturing future leaders and ensuring ongoing professional excellence and innovation.
Extensive Networking and Community Engagement
The networking aspect of GEAPS Exchange 2025 was significantly expanded, offering numerous opportunities for attendees to forge and strengthen professional relationships.
Events like the First-Time and International Attendees Mixer welcomed new faces and international participants, while the vibrant Get Acquainted Party at the College Basketball Experience provided a casual yet engaging atmosphere for meaningful connections.
The popular closing event, Music Bingo, which debuted to great acclaim in 2024, returned to enthusiastic participation, further solidifying GEAPS Exchange’s role as a key platform for community building within the industry.
Leadership and Organizational Growth
GEAPS reinforced its forward-looking vision by announcing a robust slate of candidates for the upcoming Board of Directors elections. Notably, Jon Brown, MKC, was presented as a candidate for second vice president.
Joining Brown were distinguished director nominees including Scott Biel, MKC; Sean Farrell, The DeLong Co.; Adam Geers, Michigan Agricultural Commodities; and several other notable industry professionals.
The diverse backgrounds and expertise of these candidates underscored GEAPS’ commitment to robust, forward-thinking leadership capable of guiding the organization and industry into a thriving future.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
GEAPS Exchange 2025 solidified its position as a crucial hub for grain industry innovation, professional development, networking, and leadership advancement.
Through comprehensive educational sessions, strategic industry recognition, robust networking events, and an ambitious vision for future growth, GEAPS demonstrated its ongoing commitment to serving the global grain community. The event’s success not only celebrated current industry achievements but also laid a strong foundation for continued advancement, collaboration, and prosperity across the global grain industry.