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GEAPS Exchange 2026: What to Expect — and How to Get the Most Value
Every year, there’s one time when the global grain community gathers in one place to learn, connect, and solve real-world challenges together. In this special episode, Jim Lenz is joined by Bob Horvat, current GEAPS Board President, to spotlight GEAPS Exchange 2026—the premier event in the grain and grain processing industries.
Bob shares why Exchange exists, why it still matters, and how both first-time and returning attendees can get maximum value—from education and Innovation Stations to the Expo Hall, special events, and the relationships that continue long after the show ends.
With 319,950 square feet of Expo Hall, 400+ exhibitors, Innovation Stations, and 45+ hours of education across five tracks (Processing, Maintenance, Grain Operations, Safety, and Employee Development/Leadership), Exchange is designed to bring practical learning and problem-solving to every role in the industry.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why GEAPS Exchange exists—and how it supports the GEAPS mission to champion, connect, and serve the global grain industry
- The value of Exchange for operations, maintenance, safety, processing, and leadership roles
- What “real-world education” looks like at Exchange (sessions, demonstrations, and interactive learning)
- How to approach the Expo Hall like a pro—especially with 400+ exhibitors
- The community-building events that make Exchange feel like your extended grain industry family
- Who should attend (hint: everyone) and how to plan for maximum return on time and investment
- Key event details, pricing context, and practical tips to attend with your team
Highlights discussed
- Education formats: classroom sessions, Innovation Stations demos, and interactive learning (including safety-focused experiences)
- Five education tracks: Processing, Maintenance, Grain Operations, Safety, Employee Development (Leadership)
- Networking & special events: First-Timer/International events, Get Acquainted Party, Welcome Reception, Fun Run/Walk, Cornhole Tournament, Grain Merchandisers Networking Event, and Music Bingo
- Why Exchange energizes people and sends them home with:
- renewed enthusiasm,
- new ideas,
- knowledge to apply, and
- new connections—people to call when you need help
Key details to remember
- GEAPS Exchange 2026 Website
- February 21–24, 2026
- Kansas City Convention Center
- 400+ exhibitors
- 45+ hours of education
- Innovation Stations and live demonstrations
- One of the biggest values of Exchange: the people you meet—and the problems you solve together
Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.
