Millers Convene in Oklahoma City

Millers from 22 countries gathered in Oklahoma City, OK, April 29-May 2, for the 129th International Association of Operative Millers (IAOM) Conference and Expo. Attendance was more than 960, and there were 140 trade show exhibitors.

The conference offered a robust lineup of educational sessions across key areas: technical operations, employee management, product protection, and facility management. Notable sessions included:

In a featured technical session, Liam Cassidy, Knobelsdorff, presented “AI and the Future of Automation in Milling,” exploring the integration of artificial intelligence into milling operations and highlighting advancements in automation and predictive maintenance.

Bühler’s Bill Ritchie spoke about trends in mill maintenance, discussing innovative maintenance technologies aimed at reducing energy consumption and optimizing electrical usage in flour mills.

Employee Relations Committee members Stacy Payne, Chelsea Milling, and Eric Knott, Miller Milling, addressed strategies for effective communication and collaboration among diverse age groups within the milling workforce.

The keynote address was delivered by Lee Sanders, president of Lee Sanders Strategy Group, who provided insights into upcoming policy shifts and legislative initiatives affecting the milling industry under the new U.S. administration.

Leadership Transition
President
Scott Martin, senior director of technical milling at Ardent Mills, was installed as IAOM’s 2025-26 president.

In his incoming remarks at the event’s closing banquet, Martin introduced his presidential theme, “Learn, Lead, and Evolve,” reflecting a vision of continuous growth, leadership development, and industry adaptability.

A member of IAOM since 1986, Martin has contributed significantly to the association’s programs and leadership. He served as Central District chairperson (1995-96) and was a long-standing member of the IAOM Education Committee from 2003-2022, including several years as chair.
Martin’s professional journey began in 1986 as a milling technician with ConAgra in Omaha, NE. He went on to serve as head miller at multiple ConAgra mills before advancing to corporate technical miller in 1997. Following the formation of Ardent Mills in 2014, he joined the company and became senior director of technical milling in 2017.

His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics (magna cum laude) from Kansas State University (KSU), an associate degree from Garden City Community College, a certificate in diesel mechanics from NCK Area Vocational Technical School, and a diploma from the AOM Correspondence Course in Flour Milling.
Martin has received numerous accolades, including Milling Operative of the Year (2011), Arlin B. Ward Commendation for Collaboration in Education, Thaddeus B. Bownik Outstanding Service Award, KSU Department of Grain Science Outstanding Service Award, ConAgra Mills’ President’s Award (2008 and 2009), and he was featured on “Modern Marvels” (History Channel) in a 2008 episode on wheat.

Vice President
Michael Wiechman, director of milling technology at ADM in Enid, OK, was elected vice president.

In this role, Wiechman will oversee preparations for the association’s 2026 conference in Cincinnati, OH. Additionally, Wiechman is set to become president from 2026-27.
Concurrently, he will serve as president of the International Milling Education Foundation (IMEF), IAOM’s philanthropic partner that funds various educational programs related to the grain milling industry.

Wiechman has been an active member of IAOM since 1990. He has served on IAOM’s Technical Committee since 2008 and was recognized as Milling Operative of the Year in 2018.

Treasurer
Sunil Maheshwari, vice president of specialty ingredients and plant manager at Siemer Milling Company in West Harrison, IN, was elected treasurer.
As treasurer, Maheshwari will help lead preparations for IAOM’s upcoming annual conferences. He is also in line to serve as IAOM president during the 2027-28 term.

Concurrently, he will serve as IMEF vice president.
An active IAOM member, Maheshwari currently serves on the Education Committee and chairs the Global Strategies Committee, demonstrating steadfast commitment to the association’s global outreach and mission.

Award Winners
Milling Operative of the Year
Paul Campbell, process improvement manager, ADM, was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the advancement of his company and the industry from an operating point of view.
The award was presented by an ADM colleague, Michael Wiechman, who said Campbell has “quietly and consistently made an impact on the people and plants under his watch.”
“This is quite an honor,” Campbell said. “I love milling. I truly do. You don’t stay in it this long if you don’t.”

Aspiring Miller Award
Kirsty Gordon, Bay State Milling, received the Aspiring Miller Award, which recognizes exceptional under-30-year-old milling professionals who already have made important contributions to their companies. Gordon is the second woman to earn the award.

George B. Wagner Memorial Award
Mike Hoar, Riviana, was recognized for his contributions to the milling industry and IAOM in the areas of sanitation and food protection.

Thaddeus B. Bownik Outstanding Service Award
Keith Horton, Grain Millers, was presented with this award for his outstanding service to the milling industry and IAOM.

IMEF Benefactor Recognition
Siemer Milling Company and Bühler were recognized for cumulative contributions exceeding $100,000 to the International Milling Education Foundation.
“The 129th Annual Conference & Expo reinforced our commitment to innovation, connection, and professional growth,” said Melinda Farris, IAOM CEO. “It’s not just about staying current – it’s about staying ahead. From AI and sustainability to recruitment and international expansion, our members are leading the way.”