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GEAPS Launches New Training Resources to Welcome and Support the Next Generation of Grain Industry Professionals 

Published: Feb 23, 2025 by Krissy Ohnstad

The Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) is introducing two new member-exclusive resources—Welcome to the Grain Industry and the GEAPS Glossary—designed to support the next generation of grain industry professionals. These tools aim to help new employees gain essential knowledge, build confidence and establish a strong foundation in their careers while ensuring teams across the industry speak the same language. 

“At GEAPS, we hear our members loud and clear—finding workers is hard,” GEAPS Executive Director John Caupert said. “The future of the grain industry depends on young professionals who are ready to learn, grow and lead. That’s why we created these resources: Welcome to the Grain Industry, an interactive training course, and the GEAPS Glossary, the go-to resource for all things grain. Together, they offer a warm welcome and a solid starting point for new employees as they enter this critical industry.” 

Welcome to the Grain Industry is a self-paced, interactive online training designed to introduce new employees to key aspects of the industry. The course covers industry fundamentals, career pathways and workplace safety, with expert insights from industry veterans to provide an engaging introduction to grain handling and processing. 

“The goal is not just to educate but to inspire,” GEAPS’ Director of Special Projects and Events Betsy Polis said. “We want participants to understand their role in feeding and fueling the world while feeling excited and supported by GEAPS every step of the way. The grain industry offers incredible opportunities, and this course helps new employees see their potential.” 

The course culminates in a certificate of completion, giving new employees a tangible credential to showcase their learning and commitment to the industry. 

Alongside the course, GEAPS is also unveiling the GEAPS Glossary, a comprehensive resource for understanding key industry terms and acronyms. The glossary ensures clarity and consistency in industry terminology, making it an essential tool for new employees, managers and trainers. 

“Creating a shared language across our industry is essential, and this glossary is a valuable resource for ensuring everyone speaks it fluently,” Caupert said. “Whether someone is brand new to the industry or a seasoned professional, the glossary provides a consistent reference point that improves communication and operational efficiency.” 

By helping employees feel informed and engaged from the start, these resources are intended to support retention, career growth and overall industry knowledge across the industry. 

Jim Lenz, Director of Training and Education at GEAPS, emphasized how these tools align with GEAPS’ mission to advance education and workforce development in the industry.  

“Training is a vital part of career success,” Lenz said. “These new resources set a strong foundation for new employees, giving them confidence in their roles while helping employers build knowledgeable teams. By investing in education, we’re strengthening the entire grain industry.” 

The grain industry plays a critical role in feeding and fueling the world, and its success depends on attracting and retaining dedicated, well-trained professionals. GEAPS members can access the Welcome to the Grain Industry course and the GEAPS Glossary now. 

For more information and to begin your journey in the grain industry, visit GEAPS.com

About GEAPS 

The Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) is an international professional association of grain handling and processing professionals. GEAPS addresses the industry’s critical grain handling, storage and processing operations needs by providing networking, professional development programs and access to a global marketplace of industry suppliers. GEAPS’ global network includes more than 3,000 individual members from about 1,000 companies. Join our network today! 


Welcome to the Grain Industry

Complimentary for all GEAPS members, this course provides an accessible, interactive introduction to the grain industry, emphasizing its significance and the vital contributions of new employees.

This self-paced online format makes it flexible and convenient for participants to learn at their own pace.


Glossary

The glossary is a practical tool for clarifying terminology, ensuring consistent understanding across teams and the industry and is ideal for training new employees by introducing them to key industry terms and acronyms.


GEAPS Membership

With a GEAPS membership, you’ll gain connections, resources, opportunities and much more.