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GEAPS and AFIA Partner to Expand Education Opportunities for the Grain and Feed Industries

GEAPS and AFIA Partner to Expand Education Opportunities for the Grain and Feed Industries

The Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) and the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at expanding education and professional development opportunities for professionals working in the grain and feed industries.

Signed last week, the agreement provides for reciprocal access to selected educational programs, industry events and other professional development resources offered by the two organizations. As part of the collaboration, the organizations plan to coordinate eligible programs, registration processes and the promotion of available opportunities to their respective memberships.

Representing professionals involved in grain handling, storage and processing, GEAPS and AFIA, which represents the business, legislative and regulatory interests of the U.S. animal food industry and its suppliers, aim to develop joint educational opportunities based on the close links between the grain and feed industries.

GEAPS Chief Executive Officer John Caupert said grain, grain processing and animal feed are closely connected industries, adding that the partnership is expected to improve employees’ access to educational programs while supporting knowledge exchange and the development of professional relationships.

AFIA Chief Operating Officer Megan Provost also said the agreement would bring together the expertise and resources of the two organizations. Provost noted that the partnership is intended to provide industry professionals with access to a broader range of resources to develop their knowledge and skills.

Reciprocal Access and Discounted Participation for Members

Under the memorandum, eligible GEAPS members will be able to benefit from AFIA’s training modules and professional development programs. This includes access to the biennial Feed Industry Institute, as well as discounted participation in AFIA events such as the Liquid Feed Symposium and the Equipment Manufacturer’s Conference.

AFIA members, meanwhile, will receive discounted access to GEAPS’ Online Learning modules, along with discounted participation in the GEAPS Exchange and GEAPS Leadership Conference.

The two organizations will announce eligible programs and registration information to their members as opportunities become available.

The partnership, which has been in development for more than a year, is based on a shared approach to strengthening practical education for professionals working across the grain and feed industries. Supporting operational capabilities, developing workforce skills and helping businesses adapt to changing conditions across the sectors are among the key objectives of the collaboration.

The agreement between GEAPS and AFIA represents a step toward expanding cooperation in education and professional development based on the existing links between the grain and feed industries.