MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA, U.S. — Registration is open for four grain operations courses from the Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) and Kansas State University (KSU) Distance Education Program, including one course in Spanish. These online courses run from Sept. 14-Oct. 16, and registration closes Sept 1. Courses are open to anyone, even if they are not a GEAPS member or a student enrolled at KSU.

Two of the courses focus on important topics for new grain industry employees. GEAPS 500: Introduction to Grain Handling Operations offers an introduction to the key purposes, equipment and processes of grain-handling facilities with an emphasis on safety. This course is an ideal way for new employees to gain valuable insight into the industry, and for seasoned employees to enhance their skills.

The second entry-level course focuses entirely on safety. GEAPS 540: Entry Level Safety is a brand new course that expands on the safety issues presented in GEAPS 500. Lectures identify the main risks of working in the industry, discuss precautions and emphasize the need to learn and follow company and facility safety and health policies. This course is a great resource for new grain industry workers, but also serves an excellent safety refresher for more experienced employees. GEAPS 540 is also available in Spanish for the first time and covers the same content as the English version.

Veteran employees can also benefit from GEAPS 524: Grain Drying. The course covers basic principles of grain drying, with strategies for improving energy efficiency. This course is recommended for anyone from facility operators to dryer manufacturers and sales staff.

GEAPS 500 and GEAPS 540 are two of six courses required to earn the Credential in Grain Operations Management (CGOM). The CGOM is the first formal credential in the grain industry, and can be augmented with Specialist Credentials in Grain Quality Management, Grain Handling Equipment Management and Property and Casualty Risk Management. Completion of GEAPS 524 counts towards the Specialist Credential in Grain Quality Management. Anyone who completes the CGOM and all three specialist credentials earns the Master Credential in Grain Operations Management (MCGOM), the highest certification available in the industry.

Tuition for GEAPS/KSU distance education courses is $640 for GEAPS members and $815 for non-members. For more information about the courses or the GEAPS/KSU Distance Education Program, visit the program website or contact Heather Cook by e-mail at IGP@ksu.edu or call 1.785.532.4447.