Imagine teaching milling to a group with a variety of backgrounds and experience levels. Now, add in several native languages and different processes used to grind the same grains across Africa. These are some of the daily challenges that Stefan Lutz encounters as director of the African Milling School in Nairboi, Kenya. From apprenticeship programs and head miller training to baking and brewing courses, the AMS has helped to elevate the knowledge and skills of millers across Africa. Learn more from the conversation between Lutz and IAOM First Break Host Simon Tiedge.

Liam Cassidy, head of automation at Bühler Group, shares his thoughts on automation in the milling industry. What does automation mean for operative millers? Will there still be a need for millers moving forward in lights-out milling facilities? Does automation allow the miller to focus more on milling and less on the more tedious work that has to be done in a mill?

Gary Pickelmann, IAOM Past President and Gold Medal Award recipient, talks about his 47+ year career working for the same milling company, Star of the West Milling. An engineer by training, Gary immediately fell in love with milling and shares his passion for the industry and his colleagues.

IAOM President David Jansen, Siemer Milling Company, is the first guest to appear on the podcast. He talks about his career path, his involvement in IAOM, and reminds listeners that miller have “more tools in their toolboxes than a computer mouse.”