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The GFAI Developing Professionals group is designed to help newer employees build skills for success in the grain & feed industry by increasing confidence, strengthening critical skills, and providing a better understanding of the business realities in the day to day work setting. Through practical, real-world sessions and networking opportunities, you’ll gain knowledge you can use immediately while preparing yourself for long-term leadership.
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Developing Professionals Summer Event 2026
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9:30 - 10:00 am Check In
10:00 – 10:15 am Introductions 10:15 – 11:00 am Preparing a Crisis Plan: Sabrina Burkiewicz, GROWMARK, INC. 11:00 – 12:00 pm Contracts/Contracting/Arbitration: Jay Mathews, Prairieview Grain Trading and NGFA Arbitrator 12:00 – 12:45 pm Lunch 12:45 – 3:00 pm Leadership & Communication: Dustin Toberman, Omni Ag Consulting 3:00 pm Move to Pheasant Lanes Fun Center (804 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington, IL 61704) 3:30 – 5:30 pm Networking, Bowling, and Mini Golf. Snack and drinks included! |
June 18, 2026
Eastland Suites Hotel, 1801 Eastland Dr., Bloomington, IL 61704 Cost: $180 per person (includes lunch, bowling, mini golf, snacks and drinks) Registration Deadline: June 12th |
Session Descriptions
1. When the Unexpected Happens: Crisis Communication Basics for the Grain & Feed Industry
Every company will face a crisis at some point—whether it’s a safety incident, facility disruption, customer concern, or reputational issue. This session introduces Developing Professionals to the fundamentals of crisis communication, with a focus on preparation rather than reaction.
Participants will learn:
Grain contracts are the backbone of daily operations—but they can be intimidating when you’re new to the industry. This session breaks down the essential elements of a good grain contract in clear, practical terms and explains what happens when contracts don’t go as planned.
Participants will gain insight into:
Strong communication isn’t just a “soft skill”—it’s a core leadership skill. This session focuses on the importance of everyday communication with coworkers and customers and how it directly connects to trust, teamwork, and professional growth.
Participants will explore:
1. When the Unexpected Happens: Crisis Communication Basics for the Grain & Feed Industry
Every company will face a crisis at some point—whether it’s a safety incident, facility disruption, customer concern, or reputational issue. This session introduces Developing Professionals to the fundamentals of crisis communication, with a focus on preparation rather than reaction.
Participants will learn:
- What qualifies as a crisis in the grain and feed industry
- Why clear, timely communication matters—internally and externally
- The key elements of an effective crisis communication plan
- How your role, even early in your career, can impact outcomes
Grain contracts are the backbone of daily operations—but they can be intimidating when you’re new to the industry. This session breaks down the essential elements of a good grain contract in clear, practical terms and explains what happens when contracts don’t go as planned.
Participants will gain insight into:
- Key contract components and why they matter
- Common contract issues and how disputes arise
- The role of arbitration and how the process works
- How understanding contracts protects your company and customers
Strong communication isn’t just a “soft skill”—it’s a core leadership skill. This session focuses on the importance of everyday communication with coworkers and customers and how it directly connects to trust, teamwork, and professional growth.
Participants will explore:
- How effective communication improves workplace relationships
- Strategies for communicating clearly across roles and experience levels
- The connection between communication, accountability, and leadership
- How Developing Professionals can lead from any position