Why I Believe In IAOM ... Steven "Red" Michel, Star of the West Milling Co.

Steven “Red” Michel

Plant Manager

Star of the West Milling Co.

Willard, OH

IAOM member since 2002

“I started working in the industry in 1980 at Williams Brothers Company in Kent, OH.

I attended some IAOM district meetings in the 1980s and 1990s.

“I was impressed with the educational sessions, the trade show, and the camaradarie within the organization.

In 1999, Williams Brothers was sold to Star of the West.

Gary Pickelmann, corporate milling superintendent, encouraged me to enroll in the correspondence course and that set the course of my career.

“In 2002, I became a member, and since then, I’ve attended the international conferences and expos, district meetings, served as Ohio Valley committee chairperson, and recently district board member.

“The best things about being an IAOM member are the educational opportunities and stellar networking opportunities with colleagues in the industry.

Discussions with members on topics such as food safety, technical advances, regulatory compliance, combining milling technology, and the art of milling are a benefit to all.

“We’re fierce competitors in a competitive industry, but sharing ideas helps make the industry stronger and better for all of us.

The willingness to work and learn together through IAOM is priceless.

I encourage anyone interested in flour milling, milling science, and all parts of agriculture to join IAOM.

It’s a wonderful organization, and it’s great to be a part of it.”

From Milling Journal Fourth Quarter 2020