GEAPS Staff is a small yet mighty team who work on behalf of GEAPS members and the International Board of Directors to keep the organization running. The team works to provide service and assistance to members and chapters, plan events and opportunities, offer training and education, communicate with members and share news of the great things GEAPS members and the grain industry do for the greater good.

John Caupert
John CaupertChief Executive Officer

John participates with the Board of Directors in developing a vision and strategic plan to guide the organization and acts as a professional advisor on all aspects of the organization’s activities. John leads outreach activities to strengthen the GEAPS brand. John joined the GEAPS staff team in 2023.

Holly Betten
Holly BettenSenior Director of Membership, Chapter Services and Development

Holly is responsible for leading and executing strategies to support, grow and strengthen GEAPS membership and chapters. In addition to this, she supports the personnel development of the GEAPS staff. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2025.

Julia Kloehn, CAE
Julia Kloehn, CAEDirector of Operations
Julia oversees GEAPS general operations management with roles in team management, technology, finance, human resources and chapter relations. Julia joined the GEAPS staff team in 2007.
Jim Lenz
Jim LenzDirector of Training and Education
James manages GEAPS’ training and educational programs. He is the lead staff liaison to the GEAPS Education & Training Committee. He joined the GEAPS staff team in 2022.
Deb Most
Deb MostMembership and Chapter Services Manager
Deb manages GEAPS’ membership and chapter development and serves as the staff liaison to the Membership and Chapter Resource Committees. She also manages GEAPS’ database technology and integrations as well as and the Safety Award Program. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2014.
Krissy Ohnstad
Krissy OhnstadMarketing Manager
Krissy manages marketing strategy and supports the team’s marketing efforts. She manages a variety of projects including branding, digital and print design, website development, social media and campaign execution. She joined the GEAPS staff team in 2021.
Betsy Polis, CMP
Betsy Polis, CMPSenior Director, Events and Initiatives

Betsy leads the strategy, planning, and execution of GEAPS’ major events, conferences, and strategic initiatives. She works closely with members, partners, volunteer leaders, and staff to deliver high-quality programs and experiences that advance GEAPS’ mission and support the grain industry workforce. Betsy joined the GEAPS staff team in 2011.

Susan Sarapa
Susan Sarapa Customer Relationship Associate

Susan assists with customer relationship management and general administration at GEAPS. She will also be part of the Exchange team and will help coordinate advertising and production. She joined GEAPS staff team in October 2022.