May 3, 2024 - The International Association of Operative Millers (IAOM) capped off its 128th Annual Conference & Expo in Salt Lake City, Utah, with new leadership elections and a series of prestigious awards celebrating exceptional service and achievements in the milling industry.
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| 2024-25 International Officers from left: Immediate Past President Steve Matson, Bay State Milling, Vice President Jennifer Harnish, PHM Brands, President Fran Churchill, Kansas State University, Treasurer Mike Wiechman, ADM, and IAOM CEO Melinda Farris |
More than 980 people attended this year's conference. The event welcomed 308 participants from milling companies and 151 international attendees from 25 countries, demonstrating its global appeal and the industry's diverse reach. The conference featured a robust lineup of 140 exhibitors and an array of educational sessions and networking opportunities.
Educational highlights and keynote address
The conference featured a diverse range of educational sessions addressing critical topics such as employee management, product protection, technical operations and facility management. The keynote address by Peter Levangie, President & CEO of Bay State Milling, titled 'A View on the Future of Flour Milling in the 21st Century,' explored the dynamic future of the milling industry influenced by AI, plant genetics, public health, sustainability and consumer preferences.
IAOM leadership elected for 2024-25
This year's conference in Salt Lake City marked a significant milestone in IAOM's history with the election of its first female president, Fran Churchill from Kansas State University. Joining her in leading IAOM are Jennifer Harnish from PHM Brands as Vice President, and Michael Wiechman from ADM as treasurer. Steve Matson from Bay State Milling will transition into the role of immediate past president, completing the executive committee.
"I am deeply honoured to serve as the first female President of IAOM," stated Churchill. "This role is not just a personal milestone but a symbol of the progressive strides we are making in the milling industry. As we look forward, our focus will be on fostering innovation and inclusivity within our community."
2024 IAOM award winners
The conference highlighted the achievements of industry leaders through several awards:
- Milling Operative of the Year: Justin Barrett, Ardent Mills
- Thaddeus B Bownik Outstanding Service Award: Tom Reed, REPCO, in recognition of his outstanding service and leadership for IAOM.
- Aspiring Miller Award: Halsey Elliott, General Mills, who is the first female to receive an IAOM award in the association's 128-year history.
- George B Wagner Memorial AwardL Dr Subramanyam Bhadriraju, Kansas State University, in recognition of his contributions to the milling industry in the areas of sanitation and food protection.
- Gold Medal Award: Joel R Hoffa, posthumously awarded for his extensive contributions to the milling community.
- Donald S Eber Award: Darryl Tateishi, DT Grain Processing Systems, acknowledged for his significant contributions and dedication to the association.
"The success of this year's conference underscores the vibrant and resilient spirit of the milling community," stated IAOM CEO Melinda Farris. "As we navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies and changing market dynamics, IAOM remains committed to providing our members with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.
"This event has set the stage for another year of growth and collaboration," she continued. "We are excited to support our members as they continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in the milling industry."
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This blog is maintained by The Global Miller staff and is supported by the magazine Milling and Grain
which is published by Perendale Publishers Limited.
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