John Rossman, Kokomo Grain, Inc. (Winamac, Indian, U.S.); Matthew Kauffman, Key Cooperative (Newton, Iowa, U.S.); and Troy Goldner, Kalama Export CO LLC (Kalama, Washington, U.S.) successfully completed the Credential in Grain Operations Management (CGOM) and Specialist Credentials in Property and Casualty Risk Management, Grain Quality Management and Grain Handling Equipment Management to obtain the Masters title.

The CGOM requires six courses and the Specialist Credentials consist of four courses each, for a total of 18 courses needed to achieve the Masters. While the CGOM and Specialists provide excellent training opportunities individually, the combined knowledge from all four credentials gives professionals a more holistic view of the industry that can benefit their careers. “I think long term, earning the Masters Credential makes you better rounded. To have taken the time and looked in all these areas,” said Kauffman, a location manager. “What I can bring to the table for my company is a lot more.”

Like Kauffman, Goldner appreciates the perspective gained by understanding the industry beyond just his own job duties as a control room operator. “Having all of the credentials, you have a better overall understanding of things that are happening. It’s always good to know what other people do. What my safety guys, farmers, and maintenance department deal with everyday, for example.”

To retain the Masters, graduates must complete at least one additional Continuing Education Unit every three years. The goal is to keep industry professionals up to speed with innovations and changing standards, and to encourage lifelong learning.

Twenty-one students have now earned the CGOM, with 13 adding on a Specialist Credential. To learn more, contact Chuck House at 1.952.928.4640 or chuck@geaps.com.