The Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) announces that three of its members have earned the first professional credential in the grain handling industry, the Credential in Grain Operations Management (CGOM) from the GEAPS/Kansas State University Distance Education Program.

To earn the CGOM, Cory Falke, Beachner Grain Inc., Calvin Kerr, Southpier Terminals, and John Rossman, Kokomo Grain Inc., successfully completed an organized series of six online classes developed by GEAPS and Kansas State University. The courses cover topics ranging from facilities planning, to materials handling, to grain quality management.

The Credentialing Program provides a formal training option to companies and gives individuals a way to gain recognition and a competitive advantage in their careers. “Although experience is invaluable, industry-recognized training is one of the best ways to show one’s knowledge (and) commitment to the job,” said Rossman, an operations manager.

All courses in the program were developed by industry professionals and are based on current industry practices and standards, providing real-world expertise. “I’ll be using the knowledge daily in practically every aspect of my job,” said Kerr, also an operations manager.

Falke agrees that the courses have helped him to excel in his career. “I refer back to the course materials regularly. The knowledge gained in the material handling courses has been extremely useful in troubleshooting equipment problems and making specification decisions on new equipment.”

To retain the CGOM, 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.

To learn more about the Credentialing Program and view course descriptions and schedule, visit www.geaps.com.

GEAPS is an international professional association with approximately 2500 individual members. Most are employed in the grain-handling operations industry and related fields. GEAPS promotes safety, quality, professionalism, networking, innovation, and information sharing in grain operations around the world. GEAPS is the only individual-membership organization in the grain operations industry, dedicated to providing members with forums to generate leadership, innovation and excellence in grain-related industry operations.

For related equipment reviews, articles, and news, visit our Equipment Zones

Click here for information about the upcoming Powder & Bulk Solids Texas