Topics covered during the course included in-depth analysis of flow sheet diagrams and the milling process, which included optimum machine adjustment and mill handling. Exercises in the KSU Hal Ross Flour Mill gave participants an opportunity to see the lectures applied firsthand. Tempering of wheat, comparison of special cleaning systems, techniques for bacteria count reduction and flow sheet technology were also discussed.
Course participant Kyle Gifford, finance professional at Birkett Mills in Penn Yan, New York, U.S., attended the course for education on the entire milling process. Not working directly in production, he wanted a better insight into industry.
“I enjoyed interacting with different people during the course. It has been a great experience to talk to other people about their experience including hearing the challenges they have and solutions they’ve come up with,” Gifford said. “I’ve had a great experience and I am looking forward to attending another course.”
Jason Watt, Bühler instructor of milling and course manager, also agrees the interaction between participants is valuable. He said they not only learn from the instructor, but also from each other.
“It is a lot of fun to watch participants engage in deep discussions with each other about current issues and problems,” Watts said. “They shared their experiences and asked thought provoking questions that triggered questions from the domestic participants. It was good for everyone to hear how milling was different, but also the same, in different countries.”
