Call for Speakers at GEAPS Exchange 2027

Call for Speakers is now open! GEAPS is seeking dynamic speakers who are passionate about sharing ideas, best practices, and real-world experiences across trending topics. Submit your proposal now and help shape the future of education in the grain and grain processing industries.

Presentation Session Types: 

Concurrent Education Sessions 

These 45-minute to one-hour presentations align within the designated 2027 Education Tracks. Multiple sessions run simultaneously in the education rooms throughout the duration of the conference.


Expo Hall Innovation Stations 

Innovation stations are interactive learning opportunities that take place in the Expo Hall. They are also themed around the year’s Education Tracks. Designed for groups of approximately 60 attendees, these sessions feature interactive presentations and equipment demonstrations.


Idea Exchange

These short five minute presentations feature 12 to 15 participants delivering some of the newest and most innovative products and ideas in the grain and grain processing industries. The Idea Exchange is split into two parts: “What’s New” and “Small Changes: Big Impact.” 

What’s New?

Includes new products and services developed for grain operations during the past year. Please note, you must be an Exchange 2027 exhibitor to be considered for this program.

Small Changes: Big Impact

Highlights ideas grain operations managers and workers put into practice to improve safety or efficiency at their facilities or enhance environmental awareness, company culture or community involvement.

Submissions accepted through January 5, 2027, or until filled


Education Proposal Categories: 

GEAPS is seeking presentations within the following areas: 

Industry Outlook and Future Trends

– Current and emerging industry challenges

– Rapidly changing topics including tariffs, AI, and regulatory shifts

– Futurist view of the industry, the next 5-50 years 


– Strategies for attracting, developing and keeping skilled employees 

– Managing employee accountability, changes in ownership, and transitions 

– Decision-making for supervisors and managers in leadership 


– Trends in renewable fuels including biodiesel, ethanol, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) 

– Value-added coproducts of the grain processing industry 

– Innovative automation delivery systems, such as conveyors and smart augers for grain, coproduct, and feed movement 

– Soybean extraction, corn fractionation, and other novel technologies 


– Fundamental and advanced maintenance skills  

– Predictive and preventative maintenance planning  

– Practical strategies for improving equipment performance, reducing downtime, and optimizing repair schedules 


– Grain elevator best practices including aerial lift safety and fall prevention  

– Safety for grain storage structures (i.e. bins, silos, flat storage) and cleanup of grain spills  

– Maintaining NFPA 660 standards 


Important Dates


Speaker FAQ

Non-commercial Nature of the GEAPS Exchange Education ProgramOpen

To maintain educational integrity, presenters are advised not to use their session(s) as a platform for promotion of their products and services or for monetary gain. GEAPS provides a unique forum for professionals to have an open dialogue and a creative exchange of ideas free from commercial content.

Honoraria, Travel Expenses and Complimentary RegistrationOpen

As a nonprofit association, GEAPS does not typically pay an honorarium for education presentations at GEAPS Exchange. In addition, the speaker is responsible for all travel-related and accommodation expenses. 

Individuals selected to speak at education sessions will be provided with the option of a full complimentary registration for the duration of the entire conference, including social events. 

Important DatesOpen

  • Speaker Proposal Applications Accepted Until
    September 25, 2026
  • Idea Exchange Applications Accepted Until
    January 5, 2027
  • Conference Dates for Exchange 2027
    February 20-23, 2027

Review/Selection ProcessOpen

Education Committee Presentation Review and Selection Process—GEAPS Exchange Education Planning Committee (EPC) consists of members from all avenues of the grain and grain processing industries with many years of experience. The committee’s role is to review, plan, and evaluate GEAPS’ education programming for GEAPS Exchange.

The selection process involves a review of every complete presentation application submitted prior to the deadline. All presentations are selected based on the information submitted. Those submitting are expected to follow all instructions carefully and provide all requested information. Incomplete submissions will not be considered.

Speaker CommitmentOpen

If you are selected as a GEAPS Exchange speaker, you will be asked to submit materials and information in a timely manner. Conference speakers should understand the importance of meeting these deadlines. By submitting a presentation proposal, you are committing to your role in executing a successful conference. The EPC will review presentations to confirm they are meeting described session objectives and are appropriate for the designated learning levels. If there are any questions or concerns regarding the content, GEAPS reserves the right to require that changes be made