GEAPS Staff is a small yet mighty team who work on behalf of GEAPS members and the International Board of Directors to keep the organization running. The team works to provide service and assistance to members and chapters, plan events and opportunities, offer training and education, communicate with members and share news of the great things GEAPS members and the grain industry do for the greater good.

John Caupert
John CaupertExecutive Director

John participates with the Board of Directors in developing a vision and strategic plan to guide the organization and acts as a professional advisor on all aspects of the organization’s activities. John leads outreach activities to strengthen the GEAPS brand. John joined the GEAPS staff team in 2023.

Adrianne Fjerstad-Miller, CEM
Adrianne Fjerstad-Miller, CEMDirector of Conference and Exhibitions
Adrianne manages planning and production of GEAPS conferences and tradeshows. She also serves as staff liaison to the Exchange Futures Committee and oversees media kit sales. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2007.
Julia Kloehn, CAE
Julia Kloehn, CAEDirector of Operations
Julia oversees GEAPS general operations management with roles in team management, technology, finance, human resources and chapter relations. Julia joined the GEAPS staff team in 2007.
Jim Lenz
Jim LenzDirector of Training and Education
James manages GEAPS’ training and educational programs. He is the lead staff liaison to the GEAPS Continuing Education Program Oversight Committee. He joined the GEAPS staff team in 2022.
Deb Most
Deb MostMembership and Chapter Services Manager
Deb manages GEAPS’ membership and chapter development and serves as the staff liaison to the Membership and Chapter Resource Committees. She also manages GEAPS’ database technology and integrations as well as and the Safety Award Program. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2014.
Krissy Ohnstad
Krissy OhnstadMarketing Specialist
Krissy manages marketing strategy and supports the team’s marketing efforts. She handles a variety of projects including website development, social media and campaign execution. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2021.
Betsy Polis, CMP
Betsy Polis, CMPDirector of Special Projects and Events
Betsy manages execution and growth of member services programs including virtual services and continuing education programs. Betsy also serves as staff liaison to the Exchange Education Planning Committee. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2011.
Susan Sarapa
Susan Sarapa Customer Relationship Associate

Susan assists with customer relationship management and general administration at GEAPS. She will also be part of the Exchange team and will help coordinate advertising and production. She joined GEAPS staff team in October 2022.