4,027 Attend GEAPS Exchange in Kansas City
Record-Breaking Show was Impactful, Influential and Collaborative
The global grain and grain processing industries converged in Kansas City, MO, on February 21–24 as 4,027 attendees and 459 exhibitors filled the Kansas City Convention Center for GEAPS Exchange 2026.
“The people are what make it great,” said Chad Wolf, GEAPS International Board Director, about the value of connection at GEAPS Exchange. “It’s all about working towards that common goal, and every year they’re trying to find a way to do something safer.”
The program kicked off with this year’s offsite Get Acquainted Party at J. Rieger & Co. Distillery. Hundreds enjoyed fantastic food and drinks, distillery tours, and plenty of networking.
Captain Jack Becker took center stage for the Sunday morning keynote speech. His “Supersonic Success” presentation set the tone via the high-energy, results-driven session inspired by elite fighter pilots. He detailed a simple, repeatable process to build on wins, avoid repeat mistakes, and keep teams agile, cohesive, and performing at best. His presentation drew an excellent parallel to how teams across all sectors of the grain and grain processing industries can achieve “Top Gun” performance.
This year featured five education tracks that provided value throughout the supply and value chain of grain and grain processing. These were Grain Operations, Safety, Maintenance, Employee Development, and Processing. The Processing track returned after its debut last year. A highlight was a panel featuring globally recognized leaders from grain processing industries (such as ethanol and soy crush) who shared perspectives on the transformational shift in the flow of grain. This session wrapped up by recognizing the IOMSA Golden Ticket Award program winners; the three selected processing professionals each received complimentary event registration and a travel stipend.
In addition to the educational and technical sessions, GEAPS Exchange 2026 boasted a sold-out Expo Hall filled with technology, products, and services that make our industries safer and more efficient. Social events on the Expo floor further supported the ever-present networking factor.
There were several new additions to the 2026 show, which certainly left an impact. This included the Electrical Hazard Demonstration: WATT Could Go Wrong. The new demo featured a live hazardous electrical scenarios using a 7,200-volt demonstration trailer. Also, the first ever Grain Merchandisers Day entailed a designated Innovation Station and a networking event focused on the intersection of grain merchandising and grain operations.
Finally, Exchange ended on a high note with Music Bingo. Participants sang and even danced their way to winning bingo cards and prizes donated by generous Exchange exhibitors and participants.
GEAPS Exchange 2027 is scheduled for February 20-23 back at Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, MO. Booth sales for the event open later this year, with registration opening later in the fall. Watch GEAPS’ communication channels for more information.
