KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI, US — The Grain Elevator and Processing Society’s (GEAPS) Exchange returns to Kansas City, Missouri, US, with an extensive educational lineup, special events and latest innovations in the grain handling and storage industry. 

The event is planned Feb. 25-28 at the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, Missouri, US, the same location as the 2021 event. GEAPS Exchange is scheduled for Kansas City through 2029.

The conference includes an Expo Hall with the latest technology and services to make grain operations safer and more efficient along with 40-plus hours of education and social events. Demonstrations are planned in the Expo Hall on grain entrapment rescues as well as small-group presentations.

The Idea Exchange will showcase new products in the industry and innovative ideas that facility managers recently have implemented to improve operations. Multiple social events are planned, including the Get Acquainted Party, Welcome Reception and Closing Reception.

Chris Blair, president of the GEAPS board of directors, said he is excited to return to Kansas City and for those making their first trip to GEAPS Exchange. 

 “Take a deep breath and take the whole Exchange in,” he said. “There are many opportunities to be involved and I encourage you to take advantage of your opportunity to meet new people and connect with as many people as possible. You never know when you will need help troubleshooting something or looking for service on anything in our industry.”

Education 

The Idea Exchange, set for 9:45 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, features a variety of five-minute presentations separated into two segments. The “Small Changes…Big Impact!” highlights ideas that grain operations managers and workers put into practice to improve safety or efficiency at their facilities or enhance environmental awareness, company culture or community involvement. The “What’s New?” segment includes new products and services developed for grain operations during the past year.

This year’s Keynote Session, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. on Feb. 26, features Dan Cnossen, a Navy SEAL Lt. Commander and seven-time paralympic medalist. 

Education continues throughout the event with workshops and hour-long sessions on Monday, Feb. 27, and Tuesday, Feb. 28. Sessions are divided into four tracks: Maintenance, Employee Development, Safety and Grain Operations. The tracks are planned so attendees may participate in all the sessions in one track or mix and match.

Jess McCluer, vice president, safety and regulatory affairs with the National Grain and Feed Association, will provide an update on regulatory issues within the Occupational Safety and Health Administration from 9:15 to 10 a.m. on Feb. 27. 

Burton Keslo, chief tech expert with Integral, will provide tips on how to keep a business safe and secure from cyberattacks from 8 to 9 a.m. on Feb. 28. 

Special events