Why I Believe In IAOM ... Gary Pickelmann, Start of the West Milling Company

Gary Pickelmann

Corporate Milling Superintendent

Star of the West Milling Company

Frankenmuth, MI

IAOM Member since 1977

“I joined IAOM because of the value of the educational sessions and networking.

I have enjoyed the experiences from trade shows and expos at district meetings and the annual international meetings.

“I have been in the milling industry for 46 years but continue to learn from my IAOM colleagues.

That’s part of what makes the milling industry so special.

We are a very tight-knit group – everyone is willing to share ideas and help educate each other, not only at the meetings but also over the phone or through email.

Seeing equipment at expos, trade shows, or at suppliers’ facilities has been a tremendous learning experience for me.

“I have had the humble honor of being active in IAOM.

I have served as district vice chairman, district chairman, and member of a district board of directors.

I also have had the privilege of being a part of the executive officer team for four years, which included serving as president for the 1993-94 term.

Presently, I am a member of the IAOM Technical Committee and have been for many years and was chair of it for 10 years.

“The thing I like best about IAOM is our membership.

By that, I mean we all have the opportunity to share with each other, which leads to the development of close ties and friendships that will last a lifetime, even after we are retired and no longer active in the industry.

IAOM certainly provides a great way to learn from fellow members and also grow those friendships.

That, to me, is the strength of our organization, and I hope that continues for many years to come.”

From Milling Journal Fourth Quarter 2019