This program is unique from other master training programs in that our partners and the dedicated beekeepers involved play integral roles in all aspects of the Great Plains Master Beekeeping program.
The Great Plains Master Beekeeping Program (GPMB) is guided by the UNL Bee Team and a governing council of beekeepers that regularly meet to make important decisions regarding curriculum content and program needs.
The governing council also fosters the exchange of diverse ideas, perspectives, and opinions across the GPMB community.
Currently, the GPMB governing council is composed of roughly ~14 representatives from partnering associations, bee clubs, and educational institutions. In addition, volunteer beekeepers serve on GPMB committees, which focus on specific tasks that contribute to the program’s success.
GPMB volunteers also contribute back to local beekeeping clubs and partnering associations to meet level advancement requirements which fosters stronger partner engagement among new and experienced club members.
These interactions and working groups aim to provide guidance on teaching science or evidence-based, time-tested beekeeping management practices, enabling committee members to share this knowledge with their associates and club members, thereby expanding the GPMB learning support network.
To find out more about GPMB Partners see the links below:
Our partners are a vital part of the Great Plains Master Beekeeping program. Partner associations provide a foundation for members to connect, share knowledge, and engage with a community of beekeepers in their area. They also offer courses and outreach opportunities for members of the regional program.
While regional partners and the dedicated beekeepers involved play essential roles in all aspects of the GPMB program, you don't have to belong to a partnered association to participate in GPMB. Likewise, being in a partner association does not require you to join GPMB, though it can help connect you with mentors and other beekeepers nearby.
Great Plains Master Beekeeping Governing Committee Chair Officers
Certified Master Beekeepers Elected June 2, 2023
Charlotte Ekker Wiggins (MO) Chair
Chuck Dailey, (IN), Vice-Chair
(vacant) Secretary
Great Plains Master Beekeeping Program Partners:
Beekeepers of Indiana: Chuck Dailey
Iowa Honey Producers Association: Jason Foley
Kansas Honey Producers Association: Becky Tipton
Missouri State Beekeepers Association: Jeff Maddox
Nebraska Beekeepers Association: Trey Nelson
Northeastern Kansas Beekeepers: Joli Winer
Omaha Bee Club: Mike Wroebel
Rolla Bee Club: Christine Richards
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Great Plains Master Beekeeping Program Partner Educators:
Kirstin Bailey (NE) Center for Rural Affairs
Randall Cass (IA) Iowa State University
Ana Heck (MI) Michigan State University
Dr. Adam Ingrao (MI) Heroes to Hives
 John Schellenberger, President |  Adam Ingrao, Founder |  Matthew O'Neal, Professor |
 Becky Tipton, President |  Missouri State Beekeepers Association Jeff Maddox, President |  Nebraska Beekeepers Association Trey Nelson President |
 Mike Wroebel, President |  Bob Catron, President |  Iowa Honey Producers Association Jason Foley, President |
|  Ana Heck, |
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If you are in a beekeeping association that is not listed here, and you would like to join, bring it up to your association president or governing committee. If you are in a leadership position at an association that would like to join the Great Plains Master Beekeeping program, please reach out to us at sbrummel2@unl.edu and we will be happy to work with you! Benefits of joining this regional training program for associations are numerous and include access to cutting edge research, validation of education topics and courses, and access to members who want to volunteer in associations.