The GEAPS Scholarship That Transformed a Career

The GEAPS Scholarship That Transformed a Career

For many professionals with careers underway, returning to school often feels out of reach. For Brandon Lidster, a GEAPS scholarship turned a long-held goal into a realistic next step. Upon a somewhat unexpected career change, Lidster, a recipient of GEAPS' 2024-2025 Harold Reese Memorial Scholarship, took the leap back to school. This decision led to earning his degree in Occupational Health and Safety while supporting and advancing his career in grain.

Turning a Goal Into a Plan

Although Lidster had long wanted to complete his degree in Occupational Health and Safety, returning to school felt uncertain. Balancing work, family, and finances made the decision difficult, even with strong support from his employer.

A GEAPS scholarship helped remove that barrier.

"I always thought you had to be young to get scholarships," Lidster said. "When the GEAPS scholarship opportunity came through, I knew it was time to go back to school."

With financial support from GEAPS and encouragement from industry peers, Lidster recently completed his degree through Columbia Southern University in the fall of 2025, a milestone that strengthened both his confidence and his leadership skills.

"If it wasn't for GEAPS awarding me that scholarship, I probably wouldn't have started school back up," he said. "I wouldn't be where I'm at now."

With his degree in hand, Lidster isn't slowing down. Next on his agenda is studying for the Associate Safety Professional (ASP) board certification, a step that will open even more opportunities to lead and strengthen safety programs. "There's always more to learn, and I want to keep challenging myself to grow in this industry," he said.

Education That Shows Up on the Job

Today, Lidster oversees a team of five safety coordinators and leads safety programs across multiple facilities. His work includes employee education, incident reviews, audits, and continuous improvement efforts that prioritize communication and accountability.

Coursework in leadership and management directly influenced how he approaches safety conversations and employee engagement. Rather than focusing solely on compliance, Lidster emphasizes explaining the reasoning behind safety practices and adapting communication to different learning styles.

"The education helped me realize where I could improve as a leader," he said. "It changed how I approach training and safety across our facilities."

GEAPS Scholarships Now Open

GEAPS scholarships are now open, supporting students and professionals pursuing education connected to careers in the grain and grain processing industries. Two long-standing scholarship programs reflect GEAPS' commitment to education, workforce development, and leadership growth.

The Henry H. Kaufmann Memorial Scholarship, named in honor of GEAPS' 1975-76 president, supports individuals interested in eliminating language barriers in the workplace by learning or strengthening fluency in a second language. Applicants seeking cultural immersion opportunities as part of their language development may receive special consideration. Selection is based in part on an applicant's commitment to career goals and the case made for the proposed course of study.

The Harold Reese Memorial Scholarship, named for GEAPS president 1995-96, is a versatile opportunity for multiple educational paths. This scholarship provides financial assistance to those studying grain-related fields at academic institutions or learners interested in taking GEAPS online education courses. Scholarships are awarded based on qualifications and paid directly to educational institutions accredited by the United States Department of Education.

Applications for both scholarships are currently open. Winners will be selected and notified in the summer of 2026 with scholarships awarded for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Learn more and apply:

Advice for Future Applicants

Lidster encourages others, especially working professionals, to take the first step, even if returning to school feels uncertain.

"Jump at it if you have the opportunity," he said, "Once that paperwork's turned in for your scholarship, you really start to see the possibilities unfolding."

Through programs like scholarships, professional development courses, and networking opportunities, GEAPS provides members with the tools and support they need to grow in their careers. By investing in education and fostering connections across the grain and grain processing industries, GEAPS helps members gain the knowledge, confidence, and skills to take on leadership roles and make a lasting impact. For Lidster, that support made all the difference - and it continues to empower countless other professionals one opportunity, and one career, at a time.