High-value professional development for front-line leaders coming to Kansas and Iowa

As more front-line professionals step into leadership roles, the demand for practical, people-focused leadership skills continues to grow across the grain and grain processing industries. To meet that need, Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) is relaunching its Regional Leadership Training this December under a new name: Emerging Leaders Workshop.

The one-day workshops deliver practical leadership training and an immersive, peer-driven learning experience designed for front-line leaders preparing for 2027 and beyond.

The workshops will be offered in two locations:

  • December 8 at the CNH Training Center in Nevada, IA
  • December 10 at Vortex in Salina, KS

Trainer and Program Insights

Returning instructor Dan Topf of Topf Business Learning brings more than two decades of experience helping leaders maximize results in production environments. The content focuses on practical leadership tools tailored to the operational realities of grain handling and grain processing facilities. Participants will engage in peer-to-peer discussions and work through an instructional workbook they can continue using after the workshop.

Jesse Rule, Assistant Project Manager II, of Interstates attended a previous training and noted several skills he could take back to immediately apply in his role. “One of the biggest takeaways for me is finding better ways to communicate with other business units," said Rule. "You can get so focused on what’s happening within your own area, but there’s a lot of value in understanding how other parts of the organization operate.”

Who Should Attend?

The workshop is designed for professionals including Operations Managers, Maintenance Managers, Supervisors, Shift Leads, Safety Personnel, and Field Superintendents. It also provides valuable insight for Learning & Development and Human Resources professionals looking to strengthen leadership development within their organizations.

Fulfilling a Key Industry Need

Professional leadership development is part of GEAPS’ ongoing commitment to delivering programs that support the long-term strength of the grain and grain processing industries. By hosting these workshops regionally, GEAPS increases access to in-person training while strengthening local professional networks.

Participants leave the Emerging Leaders Workshop with actionable leadership skills, improved decisionmaking confidence, and connections that extend beyond their own organizations.

To register for an Emerging Leader Workshop, visit www.geaps.com/emerging-leaders....