MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA, U.S. — The Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS) announced on Aug. 25 two appointments to the International board of directors. David McKerchar, CGOM, Parrish & Heimbecker Ltd., Canadian Prairies Chapter, was appointed to the office of third vice-president, responsible for representing Canadian members’ interests on the board. Jeff Jones, MKC, Great Plains, was appointed as a board director. Both appointments were made by International President Matt Kerrigan, Bunge North America, Gateway.

For the first time in GEAPS history, the office of third vice-president will transition from father to son. David McKerchar takes over the position from his father, Jim McKerchar, who held the office from 2011-15.

“David McKerchar did some great work with the GEAPS/KSU Distance Education Program, and that’s one of the main reasons why we are appointing him,” explained Kerrigan. “He is a younger member in the organization. We are really excited for the perspective he will bring to the board, coming from something of an outsider’s point of view. He should provide some new insight for an experienced industry.”

Jones was appointed to fill a director position that was vacated after the 2015 elections. He has been a GEAPS member since 2013, and currently serves as his chapter’s treasurer.

“Jones was highly recommended by board director Barb Grove,” Kerrigan said.  “Grove noticed his enthusiastic involvement in their chapter and learned that he wanted to get more involved with GEAPS. Jones is relatively new to the industry, and his position at MKC adds to the board’s broad range of experience, with members from many different-sized companies.”

For Jones, the position is an opportunity to build relationships with others across the industry. He looks forward to educating members and promoting GEAPS’ relevance within the industry.

“Industry safety is number one in my thought process,” Jones said. “It’s followed by promoting industry relevance and education. I look forward to promoting GEAPS’ position as The Knowledge Resource in the local community, and helping shape education and training options that help our members work more safely and efficiently.”

McKerchar and Jones will have the positions until GEAPS’ annual meeting in July 2016.