Scott Steinke

John Caupert

Chief Executive Officer

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.

Jackie Hayes

Senior Director of Communications, Marketing and Industry Relations

Jackie Hayes serves as Senior Director of Communications, Marketing and Industry Relations for GEAPS. She leads the organization's communications and marketing efforts while building relationships with members, industry partners, and stakeholders to strengthen engagement across the grain and grain processing industries. Jackie joined the GEAPS staff team in 2026.

Karli Herrstrom

Event Coordinator

Karli supports the planning and execution of GEAPS conferences, educational programs, and events. She coordinates event logistics, registration, speaker support, and attendee services to help ensure a seamless experience for members, exhibitors, sponsors, and event participants. Karli joined the GEAPS staff team in 2026.

Audra Kamin, CMP

Director of Conferences & Expos

Audra oversees the planning, production, and execution of GEAPS conferences, exhibitions, and events, including the annual GEAPS Exchange. She works closely with exhibitors, sponsors, vendors, and event stakeholders to deliver high-quality experiences that support member engagement, industry connections, and organizational growth. Audra joined the GEAPS staff team in 2026.

Julia Kloehn, CAE

Senior Director of Administration and Board Relations

Julia oversees all administrative functions of GEAPS, including, accounting, budgets, finance, IT and legal. In addition, Julia serves as the HR representative for GEAPS. In her role in Board Relations, Julia coordinates and oversees all activities of the International Board of Directors and Committees of the Board.

Jim Lenz

Director of Global Learning & Training

Jim leads the strategy, development, and growth of GEAPS’ global education and workforce development initiatives. He oversees the creation of learner-centered training and professional development programs designed to support the grain industry workforce from onboarding through career advancement. His work includes educational strategy, online learning and technology, industry partnerships, course and curriculum development, and initiatives that expand the reach and…

Krissy Ohnstad

Marketing Manager

Krissy manages marketing strategy and supports the team’s marketing efforts. She manages a variety of projects including branding, digital and print design, website development, social media and campaign execution. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2021.

Betsy Polis, CMP

Senior Director of Conferences, Events and Expos

Betsy leads the strategy, planning, and execution of GEAPS’ major events, conferences, and strategic initiatives. She works closely with members, partners, volunteer leaders, and staff to deliver high-quality programs and experiences that advance GEAPS’ mission and support the grain industry workforce. Betsy joined the GEAPS staff team in 2011.

Carley Snider

Learning & Development Manager, Acting Membership & Chapter Services Manager

Carley leads learning and development initiatives for GEAPS, designing and delivering education programs, managing learning platforms, and supporting members through engaging, seamless educational experiences. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2026.

Kari Tusler

Communications Manager

Kari manages GEAPS’ communications, ensuring clear, consistent messaging across digital and print communications. She handles publication of the In-Grain newsletter as well as the Buyer’s Guide and Directory. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2025.

Juan Pablo Velazquez 

Exhibitor Relations and Sponsorships Manager

Juan Pablo manages booth sales, exhibitor relations and sponsorship program sales and production. He joined GEAPS staff team in September 2024.

Sandra Wright

Executive Assistant

Sandra provides support to GEAPS staff team in the areas of governance, education and events. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2024.