GEAPS Exchange 2025: Fostering innovation through learning organizations

At GEAPS Exchange 2025, Tim deHaan, Chief Operating Officer at Advanced Material Handling, delivered a compelling session on building learning organizations in the grain handling industry. The Innovation Station presentation, titled  "Building a Smarter Hive: Trust and Transformation in Learning Organizations," emphasized the critical role of continuous learning and adaptation in driving industry innovation.

deHaan highlighted five key elements of learning organizations: systems thinking, mental models, shared vision, personal mastery, and team learning. He particularly focused on personal mastery and team learning as crucial components for fostering innovation.

"Personal mastery is a commitment to continuous learning and it is not achieving perfection," deHaan explained. He emphasized the importance of self-discipline and maintaining a clear vision of one's goals.

On team learning, deHaan stressed the need for collaborative problem-solving and leveraging collective intelligence. "Teammates need to be affecting teammates," he noted, emphasizing the importance of positive interactions and mutual learning within teams.

The session also addressed the challenges of implementing a learning organization culture. deHaan cautioned against forcing change, stating, "My recommendation to you is never sink money into disengaged employees." Instead, he advocated for creating an environment that encourages voluntary participation in learning initiatives.

deHaan concluded with a call to action for industry leaders: "Be courageous. Face your own fears. It's not easy... But be courageous because the rewards on the other end are absolutely amazing."

This insightful session provided grain handling professionals with practical strategies for fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation, essential for staying competitive in an evolving industry landscape.