Recognizing Women in Grain Inspection - Staci Sampson
AAGIWA would like to recognize and highlight women in the grain inspection industry who are leading the way for others. Click here to submit your nomination.
Staci Sampson, Tri-State Grain Inspection
Staci Sampson began her career in grain inspection as a sampler at TriState Grain Inspection over 14 years ago following a long-time position as a restaurant manager. In her role at Tri-State, Staci does most of the new employee training. She is also in charge of HR and billing.
Colleagues share that Staci is fun and talkative - always making new friends. She is also emotionally supportive to the needs of her coworkers. In that vein, Staci always advocates for employee Christmas bonuses and ensures staff are treated to a turkey at Thanksgiving and honey baked ham at Christmas.
Tri-State services portions of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky along the Ohio River. It is a family owned and operated agency. Staci and her husband Michael Sampson are the third generation at Tri-State. Michael is the son of Damon and Colleen Sampson, and grandson of agency founder, Patrick Corrigan.
Congratulations, Staci, on all of your accomplishments! We are proud to have you as part of the grain inspection family.
Recognizing Women in Grain Inspection - Erin Casey-Campbell
AAGIWA would like to recognize and highlight women in the grain inspection industry who are leading the way for others. Click here to submit your nomination.
Erin Casey-Campbell, Missouri Grain Inspection Services Program
We are pleased to introduce you to Erin Casey-Campbell, Program Manager for the Missouri Grain Inspection Services Program. Erin began her career with the Missouri Department of Agriculture in August of 2019 where she served as Industrial Hemp-Program Coordinator. She joined the Missouri Grain Inspection Services Program in September of 2021 as the programs Operations Coordinator and assumed the role of Program Manager in July 2022.
Erin graduated from the University of Missouri where she received a Bachelor of Science degree and later obtained a Master's in Plant Sciences. Ken Henderson, Missouri Grain Inspection and Warehousing Director noted, "Since joining the Department, Erin has demonstrated leadership skills and is a true asset to the Department and to the Missouri Grain Inspection Services Program."
Erin will be graduating from the Missouri Leadership Academy in September 2023. This is a state-limited leadership development program that encompasses all state agencies within Missouri government. Within the Department, Erin has served on various committees that include team member retention and Department excellence.
Ken Henderson, Erin's direct supervisor, added "Erin is energetic and detail-oriented, but not to the point of losing focus of the goals of the program. She has great communication skills and is not afraid of the work it takes to run a successful inspection agency."
Congratulations, Erin, on all of your accomplishments! You are a wonderful example of leadership and focus, and we are proud to have you as part of the grain inspection family.
Recognizing Women in Grain Inspection - Kari Schiller
AAGIWA would like to recognize and highlight women in the grain inspection industry who are leading the way for others. Click here to submit your nomination.
Kari Schiller, Montana State Grain Lab
We are pleased to introduce you to Kari Schiller, Lab Coordinator for the Montana State Grain Lab. Kari was hired by the Montana Department of Agriculture in 2012 during harvest as a part-time "Ag Inspector" and quickly rose through the ranks. Kari has not only worked herself into the position of Lab Coordinator, but has also obtained 10 different commodity grading licenses.
Before coming to the Montana State Grain Lab, Kari worked in the restaurant industry where she managed a restaurant in Great Falls, Montana. She mentioned before joining the State Grain Lab in 2012 that she "didn't even know the difference between wheat and barley" and is now grading 10 different commodities. Kari was born and raised in Great Falls, Montana, and attended the University of Providence, studying physical education while playing volleyball for the University. Fun fact - Kari also played volleyball at the Junior Olympics in Colorado Springs.
According to Dan Reimer, Director of the Montana State Grain Lab, "Kari would tell you that she is just one of the boys, but she plays a vital role here at the lab and serves as an extremely valuable resource to the entire Federal Grain Inspection System. Her 10 commodity grading licenses and 10 plus years of experience serve the industry and State of Montana extremely well. Along with daily duties, Kari also serves as a Public Relations Liaison for the Lab as they work to serve grain elevators all over the state to the highest standard.
Kari is known around the Lab as a hard worker, giving nothing but her best. Early mornings, late nights, long drives, and inclement weather are only a few of the challenges Kari faces head on. When Montana experienced catastrophic rainfall in 2014 the Lab as in harvest from July through February due to poor grain quality causing a backlog of samples. During this hectic time, Kari worked 10 hour days, 7 days a week to ensure Montana's farmers were provided the most accurate grading available.
The Montana Department of Agriculture is proud to have Kari as an integral part of the State Grain Lab and commends her dedication to agriculture, her peers, and Montana's farmers and ranchers. Congratulations Kari on all of your accomplishments! You are a wonderful example of hard work and commitment, and we are proud to have you as part of the grain inspection family.
Recognizing Women in Grain Inspection - Angie Nelson
AAGIWA would like to recognize and highlight women in the grain inspection industry who are leading the way for others. Click here to submit your nomination.
Angie Nelson, North Dakota Grain Inspection
We are pleased to introduce you to Angie Nelson, Quality Coordinator, North Dakota Grain Inspection and AdamsNet. Angie was originally hired as a data entry clerk for NDGI in 2014. She was promoted to data entry supervisor, and then began also helping with AdamsNet support. Her role now includes AdamsNet support and FGIS liaison for policies, internal audits and quality assurance.
According to Kia Mikesh, Vice President, NDGI, Angie has always excelled at everything she puts her mind to. "Her attention to detail in finding and understanding areas within FGIS policy is amazing," Kia says. Angie is a great asset to the NDGI team and truly cares about the official system. She shares that passion through her work within AdamsNet, and helping customers navigate through policies with various programs.
Congratulations Angie on all of your accomplishments! You are a wonderful example of focus and passion, and we are proud to have you as part of the grain inspection family.
Recognizing Women in Grain Inspection - Emily Dumbeck
If you have been around the grain inspection industry, you've undoubtedly noticed the workforce is predominately male. AAGIWA would like to recognize and highlight women in the industry who are leading the way for others.
Emily Dumbeck, Northern Plains Grain Inspection Service
We are pleased to introduce you to Emily Dumbeck, AMA Coordinator, Northern Plains Grain Inspection Service, Inc. Emily began her career at Northern Plains Grain Inspection Service (NPGIS) over five years ago as a technician. It was quickly realized that her knowledge outweighed that position and she transitioned to become an AMA inspector and learned AMA certification. In addition to serving as AMA Coordinator, Emily also shares the role of quality coordinator and has spent countless hours on the agency's quality manual, most recently updating their internal audit process.
Emily grew up in Baxter, Minnesota and attended the University of Minnesota in Morris, graduating with honors with dual degrees in Psychology and Biology. She was also the team captain in soccer and cross-country skiing, as well as competing in many triathlons. Emily was also part of the Spanish club, and spent time studying in Spain. Currently Emily is a Board Member of the local archery club and is working to get a youth program established in her community. She competes in many archery competitions.
According to Ryan Kuhl, Owner, NPGIS, Emily is very self-driven and only offers her best. She is always willing to work early or late, and is always up for a challenge. Her dedication to her role at NPGIS is endless and she is always willing to go the extra mile - striving to do it all from start to finish - a call to go out sampling, inspecting, to sending out the certificate while coordinating all her other activities.
Ryan adds, "Emily is a huge asset to NPGIS and doesn't let any male in the industry get in her way. If that challenge would ever confront her," he warns with a smile, "simply stay out of her way."
Congratulations Emily on all of your accomplishments! You are a wonderful example of commitment and determination and we are proud to have you as part of the grain inspection family.
AAGIWA would like to recognize Women in Grain Inspection in upcoming newsletters and on social media. This is a great way to recognize employees and colleagues and provide increased visibility for women in our industry. To do this we need your help. Please send in your submission (self-submissions are welcome as well!) using this form along with a photo.
AAGIWA 2023 Annual Meeting
Register Today!
In just two months, AAGIWA's 2023 Annual Meeting will be held April 23-26, 2023 at the LINQ Hotel + Experience in Las Vegas, Nevada, and we can't wait to see you!
We are delighted to have USDA Federal Grain Inspection Service Deputy Administrator Arthur Neal and his team on our program, along with:
Jess McCluer, Vice President, Safety and Regulatory Affairs, National Grain & Feed Association
Nick Friant, Food Safety, Quality, Regulatory Leader, Cargill
Doug Chorney, Chief Commissioner, Canadian Grain Commission
Lyndsey Erb, Director of Industry Relations, U.S. Soybean Export Council
Kristina Dietrick, President, HR Partners
Barbara Grove, Quality Systems Manager, Central Valley Ag
Important Information:
Registration is open! Register by March 31 for early bird pricing. >> Register here
Book your hotel room by March 31 to receive AAGIWA's discounted rate of $89/night (plus taxes & resort fee). >> Reservations
Meeting sponsorship opportunities for associate and agency members are available. Help make this meeting a great success! >> Learn more
Located at the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, rooms include cutting-edge technology, modern furnishings and close access to the LINQ Promenade and The High Roller. A discounted group rate has been negotiated and rooms are available at a first come/first serve basis. AAGIWA is responsible for fulfilling the committed room block, and appreciates and encourages meeting attendees to stay at this fun and unique property, centrally located on the Las Vegas Strip.
Additional meeting information, including schedule, registration details, hotel reservations, and sponsorship opportunities are available. Click the button below.
Recognizing Women in Grain Inspection - Dayana Carrillo
If you have been around the grain inspection industry at all, you've undoubtedly noticed the workforce is predominately male. AAGIWA would like to recognize and highlight women in the industry who are leading the way for others.
Dayana Carrillo, Kansas Grain Inspection Service
We are pleased to introduce you to Dayana Carrillo, Assistant Manager, Kansas Grain Inspection Service. Dayana began her career at Kansas Grain Inspection six years ago as a sampler, but quickly started training as an inspector and then moved into her current role as assistant manager. Previously she worked for Scoular as the house grader for five years.
Originally from Southern California, Dayana moved to Salina, Kansas, in 2016. She is the oldest of five children, and Spanish is her first language. Dayana says that she learned from her grandparents and parents that being a woman and Hispanic, she would have to work twice as hard to get noticed at any job. She has a strong sense of justice and will advocate for herself and others when needed.
When asked what led to her career in the grain inspection industry, Dayana said she first started as seasonal help during wheat harvest for Scoular. Although she intended for it to be a summer job, it soon turned to full-time. She says she loved having one on one time with farmers during harvest, and found truck drivers to be such nice people. While working at Scoular she also loaded shuttle trains headed for Mexico. Dayana started working for KGIS in 2016 when she moved to the Kansas City area.
Dayana's advice for women entering the industry is not to be intimidated. While is is a very male dominated industry, and women have to work harder to be heard, she says, it is worth it. "You'll always surprise someone when telling them what field you work in, because it's always seen as a male job," says Dayana.
Jon Newcomer, President, and Mike Wholey, Manager, say that Dayana has proven to be a valuable asset to Kansas Grain Inspection Service. "In six years with KGIS, her eagerness to take on new responsibilities and her work ethic has made her stand out. Her dedication to put in long hours and work weekends while balancing family life is very commendable."
Congratulations Dayana on all of your accomplishments! You are a wonderful example of perseverance and dedication and we are proud to have you as part of the grain inspection family.
AAGIWA would like to recognize Women in Grain Inspection in upcoming newsletters and on social media. This is a great way to recognize employees and colleagues and provide increased visibility for women in our industry. To do this we need your help. Please send in your submission (self-submissions are welcome as well!) using this form along with a photo.
Key topics in Grain Inspection from 65 Years Ago
Taken from the minutes of the May 6-9, 1956, meeting of the National Association of Chief Grain Inspectors and Federal Supervisors in Minneapolis.
Changes in the Wheat Standards were in the offing.
Some of the grade changes for wheat suggested by a group of millers, processors, and Chief Inspectors were: lower moisture content for tough grade; special grade for Extra dry wheat; reduce limits of shrunken and broken kernels; show dockage in ½ and whole percents; have more sanitation factors in grades; elimination of sub-classes; elimination of smut dockage.
The uneven loading of rail cars was a major concern.
A very noticeable step-up in the number of unevenly loaded cars has appeared during the last year in Southern Minnesota, Dakotas, Iowa, and Nebraska. Parts of these states had bad crops and shippers have been loading poor grain on bottom of cars and good grain on top and loading cars too full to reach the poor grains by probing. Many trucks have been found to have poor grain on bottom or near tail gate, so the automotive samplers are being given serious consideration for truck inspection at elevators. There should be a legal penalty for plugging cars.
This was an era of large government-owned (Commodity Credit Corporation – CCC) grain stocks.
There is 30 million bushels storage in Omaha and 20 million bushels of it is full of CCC dead storage, which as made a large decrease in inspection revenue, which has made it possible for grain firms to hire away inspection personnel. Trained personnel is very hard to replace. Therefore, Inspection fees should be higher, so salaries can be large enough to hold trained inspectors. Five dollars ($5.00) per car for inspection is recommended.
Elected as officers for 1956-67 were:
President – Tom Brown (Grand Forks)
Vice President – George Butler (Chattanooga)
Secretary-Treasurer – Steve Morris
Conference attendance totaled 133 of which 64 were inspectors, 57 were supervisors, and 12 were guests. Conference cost was $750 and the balance in the association treasury was $1,232.62.
Grain Inspection Topics ... 60 Years Ago
Truck inspections, moisture meters, and lighting were among the topics at the biennial meeting of the National Association of Chief Grain Inspectors and representatives from USDA’s Grain Division on May 11 and 12, 1960 in Toledo, Ohio.
Truck inspections have increased greatly the past two years. Most places sample the trucks at the elevators for official inspection, but at least one place has a truck inspection terminal where truck grain is sampled and graded and can go to several elevators. In Chattanooga, outbound cars and trucks are sampled with a mechanical woodside sampler.
Improvements are being made in several moisture testers, which may someday replace the Tag Heppenstal. The most promising is the “motomco.”
The discussion of lighting gave a comparison of the changing natural North Light daily and hourly to artificial north light. These light changes and the demand for night inspections make artificial lighting a necessity. The Toledo North Light is the best at present and is in the process of being standardized for grain inspection.
During the fiscal year that ended June 1959, there were 3.5 million inspections by 650 inspectors at 156 inspection points in the United States which is about 5,500 inspections per inspector.
Differences in the fees charged among agencies are largely due to local costs of operation, local living costs, type of sampling personnel, travel distance to get samples and number of sampling stops.
Car inspection fees vary from $1.50 to $3.25
Truck inspection fees vary from $1.00 to $2.50
Submitted sample fees vary from 50 cents to $2.50.
Elected as officers for 1960-62 were: William Hutchings, Denver, Colorado as president, Ray Roland of Lawrenceburg, Indiana as vice-president, and Virgil McNamee, Toledo, Ohio, as secretary-treasurer. The meeting was attended by 166 people: 71 inspectors, 52 Federal men, 5 visitors, and 38 women.
Grain Inspection Topics ... 50 Years Ago
ADM’s Norm Larson was the featured industry speaker at the NACGI meeting held May 7-9, 1971 in Phoenix. NACGI – the National Association of Chief Grain Inspectors – was the predecessor to AAGIWA. The annual conference was held jointly with the USDA/AMS Grain Division.
Mr. Larson was a leading grain industry figure of the era in his role as the general superintendent for ADM Grain Company. In his remarks, he spoke in favor of changes to address such areas as: better samples, reduction in cost of sampling and inspection, a rapid, accurate method of determining protein content, a combination electro-mechanical method of determining factor components in a grain lot, clean equipment – cars, barges, and vessels arriving on time and in the quantities ordered, one composite official grade and weight on a multiple car shipments, using a mechanical sampler for the entire shipment or unit, and allowing company personnel, licensed and bonded, to obtain samples for official grades.
Association President Harry Van Houten (Lincoln Grain Inspection) reminded members to pay their annual dues of $10. The Treasurer reported the association had a balance on hand of $621.62. It was voted to hold the 1972 conference in New Orleans and the 1973 conference in Las Vegas.