The Art of Heat: How a Texas Maker Turns Propane into Precision Steel
Record Turnout Marks 2025 Propane Emergencies Training in College Station
Tick Tock! Enroll Now in the 2025 Texas Duty to Warn Mailing Program
Gallon Sales Increase for Texas in 2024
No one was willing to adapt to what we needed for the Florida climate. Robert and Daniel didn’t bat an eye. They understood exactly what we were facing and were the first manufacturer who said, ‘Yes, we can do that.’ — deBoer Propane
Highlights from Headquarters
Bill Van Hoy
TPGA Executive Director
As we move into this winter season, I hope for not only a brisk demand for propane, but time with your families and friends.
Our cover story this issue is about a San Antonio knife maker, Tobin Nieto, page 8. He was brought to our attention by TPGA member Sharon Seal with Bell Hydrogas, who has been filling tanks for Tobin for decades. Sharon says he’s a character we all would enjoy, and it’s a nice reflection on how the precise power of propane can lend itself to so many unique applications.
The recent Propane Emergencies training in College Station (page 12) was one for the record books. Check out some of the amazing photos and see why this training is so important for communities.
On page 19, the article covers how to manage anger and keep your cool in the propane business. It includes some great ideas on how to catch and redirect yourself so you can better control a tense situation.
Have you enrolled in the 2025 Duty to Warn Mailing Program? If you haven’t, see page 20 for details and deadlines. It’s a fantastic program.
The latest report showing state by state propane sales was released (page 22). Any guesses for Texas sales in 2024? Check it out.
Don’t miss out on up to $10,000 for your local high schools and trade schools to adopt propane curriculum (page 24). You have an opportunity to shape the next generation of HVAC and plumbing professionals.
As always, we celebrate and remember our propane family in our People in Propane and In Memoriam columns (page 26), along with including short but important news items.
This month's Propane with Purpose featured item (page 30) comes to us from the team at SharkNinja, a product design company that first brought us the Ninja blender. I think you'll like their newest creation!
Texas Propane
TPGA staff
Bill Van Hoy ................. bvanhoy@txpropane.com Executive Director
Jackie Mason................... jmason@txpropane.com Deputy Executive Director
Assoc. At Large Director: Jimmie Grant, Martin Gas Sales, 713-851-6155
Assoc. At Large Alternate: Jim Fulton, 4-J Energy, 832-529-4768
Nominating Chair: John Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109
NPGA Director: Mark Garrison, Allstar Fuel, 806-296-6353
Save the Date
3-4, 2026
Mark your calendar! I would like to invite you to attend the upcoming meetings on March 3-4, 2026, at the Inn of the Hills in Kerrville, TX.
Schedule
Everyone’s participation in these important events is needed.
Thank you and see you in Kerrville!
Larry
Baty
TPGA President
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 Committee Meetings & Dinner
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 TPGA Board Meeting
Host Hotel Inn of the Hills 1001 Junction Hwy Kerrville, TX 78028 (830) 895-5000•
• Room rate: Starting at $129
• FREE Parking
Reservation deadline: February 5, 2026
Questions? info@txpropane.com or call 800-325-7427
Forged By Propane
The Art of Heat: How a Texas Maker Turns
Propane into Precision Steel
The seed for Tobin Nieto’s career shift was planted innocently enough when he watched a 2003 movie starring Tommy Lee Jones and Benicio del Toro. That movie, The Hunted, featured a scene where the character goes down to a river and forges a knife with no tools.
Fast forward to about 2008 when he built his first propane forge. “I switched over to propane because I needed something that would just turn off and turn on more quickly so that I could get to work faster.”
“I thought it was the dumbest thing I had ever seen,” Nieto said. “It just put something in my head.” It bothered him enough that he went down a research rabbit hole on what is actually needed to forge a knife and if the scene they portrayed was feasible.
“It turns out that it is possible to make a knife in a couple of hours, so I decided to give it a try.”
At the time, Nieto was working in education in San Antonio. He worked for eight years with Northside Independent School district as a full-time substitute teacher and three years as a teaching assistant for children with autism.
Those first several years he went “old school”, doing all of his knife making by hand and using charcoal for the most part. But the amount of time it took to heat up and cool down was problematic in terms of also carrying on a full-time career away from home.
Fast forward to about 2008 when he built his first propane forge. “I switched over to propane because I needed something that would just turn off and turn on more quickly so that I could get to work faster.”
The shift to propane was necessary for his budding part-time craft. He was now selling his hand-forged knives at craft shows and gun shows. The shift also brought about Nieto’s close relationship with his local propane retailer, Bell Hydrogas in San Antonio, which has been run by the same family since 1931. Sharon Seal, a fourth-generation marketer, says Nieto comes by about once a week during high season to get his 40-pound tanks filled.
“We always love when he comes by,” said Seal. “He talks to everyone in the office. He’s quite a character and we enjoy talking with him.”
Forged in Fire
Nieto continued honing his new trade/passion part-time for the next five to ten years, adding knife making teacher to his professional resume. He eventually landed on television duking it out with other knife makers to win prizes (and accolades). He appeared in two episodes of the History Channel’s Forged in Fire, which is just this year ending its 10-year run.
In one of those episodes (season 2, episode 8), he bested the other contestants and earned the title of winner, which also came with a $10,000 prize.
This momentum helped Nieto decide to make the leap into being a full-time knife maker/blacksmith in 2017.
His Work
At the beginning of Nieto’s exploration of his new trade he made historical reproductions of 17th and 18th century trade knives.
“So it was very niche, very specific,” he said. “I was selling those usually to the reenactors market.”
He then expanded what he was making and is best known for making “really big short swords and choppers.” Nieto was teaching classes at a local arts college and was getting lots of requests for more independent one-on-one classes. He opened up his own shop on South Presa in San Antonio in 2018, where his shop still resides today.
He’s been on social media since the beginning of his journey (search Stonehaven Knife Works or Tobin Nieto for links). It’s allowed him to amass quite a following, and also serves as a platform to sell his knives. He additionally sells at shows and on a web platform (Arizona Custom Knives).
Propane Forges
When Nieto started 23 years ago, he had to make his own propane forge.
“Over the past five years there’s kind of been an explosion of different manufacturers of different forges and tools,” he said. It used to be you would be spending close to $1,000 for a forge, but you can now find entry level forges for $120.”
Nieto currently uses a product made by Texas Forges out of Houston.
See Tobin in Action
If you’re curious about what goes into forging a blade, the Forged in Fire series on the History Channel might whet your appetite. Nieto appeared in two episodes — Season #2, Episode #8 — where his craftsmanship and precision earned national attention. The old episodes are available for streaming online.
“I’m using one of his forced air blowers. The propane comes in and then there’s a mixing chamber where you have a blower that runs through,” Nieto explained. This newer forge runs at between 3 PSI and 4 PSI, which saves him a lot of propane. “I used to be running somewhere between 8 and 12 PSI.” he said this newer forge is easier to keep ignited, as well.
If you’re curious about Tobin Nieto’s work, look up Stonehaven Knife Works on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok. His videos offer a behind-thescenes look at the sparks, skill, and artistry that go into every hand-forged blade — proof that true craftsmanship is, quite literally, forged by fire.
With this newer forge, Nieto goes through about two 40-pound tanks a month of propane. He’s getting about 16 hours per tank. His older forge would go through a 40-pound tank in four hours.
The forge temperature ranges between 1800º F to 2000º F.
“Most [knife makers] in the U.S. use propane,” he said. “Europe still uses a lot of coal, and then when you start moving into Southeast Asia, they mostly use charcoal forges there.” In Japan, which is famous for katanas (Samurai sword), they mostly use traditional charcoal forges.
As the craft continues to evolve, propane has become the quiet constant behind a new generation of makers. What began as a practical alternative to coal has transformed into the standard for precision, efficiency, and repeatability in metalwork. Propane’s clean, controllable flame allows artists to focus on form and metallurgy rather than managing smoke, ash, or fluctuating heat — turning a centuries-old process into one that fits seamlessly within today’s workshops and environmental standards. For craftsmen like Tobin Nieto, the flame is more than just a tool — it’s a teacher. Each ignition carries both history and progress, shaping steel and skill alike. The modern forge may burn cleaner, but the passion it kindles remains timeless. From an-
Stonehaven Knife Works' longtime
"forged" longtime friendships.
been Bell
generation), Virginia Seal Myers (5th generation), and Owen Myers (potential 6th generation).
cient anvils to today’s propane torches, the art of forging endures — proof that innovation and tradition can still strike the perfect balance.
Fueling the Future with Autogas
Tracy Wells Mike Armstrong East & West Texas South Texas
propane provider has
Hydrogas, where owner Tobin Nieto has
Bell Hydrogas is a fifth generation firm, hoping for a sixth! Pictured are Stanton Bell, Sr. (3rd generation), Sharon Bell Seal & Stanton Bell, Jr. (4th
Bridging the Flame: Record Turnout Marks 2025 Propane Emergencies Training in College Station
By the Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT)
When firefighters and propane professionals train side by side, something powerful happens: knowledge turns into confidence, and cooperation turns into readiness. Preparation doesn’t happen by chance—it’s built through experience, teamwork, and shared commitment to safety. That spirit defined the 2025 Propane Emergencies Training at the TEEX Brayton Fire Training Field in College Station this September, where propane professionals and emergency responders from across Texas came together for two days of hands-on learning. Hosted and sponsored by the Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT), the event demonstrated how training unites two vital communities in pursuit of one goal—keeping Texans safe.
This year’s training—held September 29–30, 2025—was one for the record books, drawing the largest number of participants since the program’s inception. Propane industry personnel, emer-
gency responders, and safety officials joined forces in a hands-on, two-day event designed to strengthen communication, coordination, and confidence when responding to propane-related incidents.
“This was the biggest class we’ve ever hosted,” said Jackie Mason of the Propane Council of Texas. “It’s proof that both the propane industry and our emergency response partners recognize how critical it is to be prepared for anything. Every year we see stronger collaboration, more engagement, and more real-world learning.”
The propane company with the most fire departments participating this year was Enderby Gas, earning the $250 Amazon gift card prize for their exceptional outreach and support of emergency responder training.
Where Propane and Preparedness Meet
The TEEX Brayton Fire Training Field—known nationwide for its realistic
emergency simulations—set the stage for the training. The new Lee Bunte Complex served as home base for classroom sessions, while outdoor props like Prop #65 and Prop #66 brought those lessons to life.
In addition to the fire props, this year’s setup included walk-in transports, a bobtail, a hollowed-out residential tank, and a Porta-Pac, giving emergency responders an inside look at the inner workings of propane containers and a better understanding of how to safely interact with them during emergencies.
Each session combined classroom learning with live-fire training to reinforce how propane behaves, how to control it, and how to work safely around it under pressure.
The two-day agenda, led by a powerhouse team of instructors—covered everything from physical properties and bulk storage to case studies and emergency response protocols.
Day one opened with Holloway’s call to action: “Why are we here?” The answer, as attendees soon experienced firsthand, was simple—to save lives through knowledge, collaboration, and practical experience.
Rex Havron, a longtime instructor and veteran of the propane industry, followed with an engaging session on the physical properties and characteristics of propane—setting the scientific foundation for every decision made in the field.
Learning Through Real Scenarios
Nothing underscores the importance of preparedness quite like real-world case studies. On Monday morning, Holloway revisited a Kerr County flooding incident from July 2025 that tested the resilience of propane storage systems during extreme weather. The discussion sparked conversations about floodplain planning, tank anchoring, and the importance of coordination between local fire departments
and propane suppliers.
That afternoon, participants rotated through field exercises using the Brayton field’s state-of-the-art props. Flames roared and hoses streamed as mixed teams of firefighters and propane professionals tackled simulated leaks, tank fires, and vapor control operations. Prop #65 focused on firefighter safety, hose and nozzle stream patterns, vapor control, and liquid diversion, while Prop #66 challenged teams with propane cylinder control, freeze patching, and residential tank fires.
“As a volunteer fireman, this training was very useful,” said Danny Masur of Minerva VFD.
Connecting Over Dinner
After a day in the field, attendees traded bunker gear for dinner attire and headed to The George Hotel, where ProCOT hosted a reception and dinner. The networking event gave firefighters and propane professionals a chance to share experiences and insights in a relaxed setting—cementing relationships that carry over into emergency response partnerships across Texas.
“It’s nice to come together with our community to bring light to what we do within our industry,” said Brienne Arellano of AmeriGas. “This training brought a lot of knowledge for both industry and the fire service.”
The hospitality continued the next morning as breakfast was again served at
Brayton Fire Field before diving into day two of intensive instruction.
Bulk Plants, Bobtails, and the HMR
Tuesday’s agenda moved deeper into propane operations and regulatory compliance, starting with Adam Rodriguez’s session on bulk plants and bulk storage tanks, followed by an in-depth case study of the Little Ghent store incident—a sobering reminder of why continuous training is essential.
After a short break, Rex Havron led a walk-through of the Emergency Response Guidebook, demonstrating how responders can quickly assess and mitigate propane incidents.
Later, Mark Holloway tackled the complex world of Transportation Emergencies and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR)—explaining how PHMSA serves as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) and outlining what the HMR dictates for propane retailers and transporters, including cargo tank inspections, labeling, and driver qualifications.
Participants then headed outdoors again for a bobtail and transport walkaround, giving both firefighters and propane industry members a chance to see how the vehicles are constructed and where the most critical safety controls are located.
Lunch followed—then back into livefire mode for the afternoon’s hands-on training.
Hands-On, Head-On Learning
The afternoon’s field exercises showcased just how far the Propane Emergencies Training has evolved. Mixed groups tackled complex scenarios simulating bulk storage fires, pipeline incidents, and container cooling techniques under the guidance of instructors.
By the end of the day, it wasn’t just about putting out flames—it was about putting lessons into practice.
“Amazing course,” said Devin McLoughlin of Madill Fire Department. “I would recommend it to everyone.” “All was very well organized and informative,” added Robert Paul Loser of Lakeside Village Area VFD. “Facility is incredible. Instructors are very knowledgeable,” said David Oden of AmeriGas.
The diversity of feedback echoed a key success of the event: bridging the gap between emergency responders and the propane industry.
More Than a Training—A Partnership
The Propane Emergencies Training isn’t just a class. It’s an investment in safety, collaboration, and mutual understanding. By bringing together firefighters who respond to propane incidents and the industry experts who work with the fuel daily, ProCOT ensures that everyone shares a common language of safety.
“Very good content—appreciate the passion for safety,” said Stephen McClendon of Ferrellgas.
“Great class, great networking. More info for the business and community,” added Matthew Branden of Western International Gas.
“We utilize lots of propane, and this training showed the need for emergency preparedness,” said Logan Bown of Tanglewood FD.
Participating Fire Departments
• Adell-Whitt Fire Department
• Brazos Co Precinct 3 VFD
• Burkburnett Fire Department
• Callisburg Fire Department
• Carlisle Fire Department
• Cat Spring Volunteer Fire Department
• Daingerfield Fire Department
• Gainesville Fire Department
Connecting Outside the Classroom
• Justin Fire Department
• Lakeside Village Area VFD
• Liberty Hill Fire Department
• WCESD#4
• London Volunteer Fire Department
• Madill Fire Department
• Marlin VFD
• Meridian Volunteer Fire Department
• Minerva Volunteer Fire Department
• Needville Fire Department
• North Zulch Volunteer Fire Department, Inc.
• Paris Fire Department
• Southeast Caldwell County Fire Department
• Tanglewood VFD
• Tiki Island Afore / Rescue
• Todd Mission Volunteer Fire Department
• Toledo Bend Volunteer Fire Department
• Town of Hollywood Park
• WCESD#4
• Whitesboro Fire Department
Recognition and Continuing Education
Each participant walked away with
more than just a certificate. Trainees received a Propane Emergencies book, a USB drive loaded with interactive propane incident mitigation scenarios, an Emergency Response Guidebook, and Continuing Education credits from the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC). Everyone from the propane industry who attended also received Continuing Education credit for the Railroad Commission of Texas.
The training’s focus on both technical and human elements makes it a unique model for collaboration that other states look to replicate. The combination of classroom theory, field application, and industry engagement sets a high bar for propane safety education nationwide.
A special thank you goes to the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) for helping support this training with an HMIT grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, as well as to the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) for making matching funds available to support the Propane Emergencies Training.
The Last Word
As flames subsided on the Brayton Fire Field and participants packed up to head home, one thing was clear—the 2025 Propane Emergencies Training had once again delivered on its promise.
It wasn’t just about responding to emergencies. It was about building relationships, deepening understanding, and mitigating risks before the first siren sounds.
The Propane Council of Texas thanks all the firefighters, propane companies, instructors, and partners who made this record-setting training possible. Plans are already underway for the next session, continuing the Council’s mission to promote safety, training, and collaboration across the Lone Star State.
When Tempers Rise: How to Lead with Composure Managing
Anger in the Workplace
In the propane industry, stress can vent faster than a pressure cooker on high heat. Whether it’s an employee missing a safety step, a driver showing up late for the third time this week, or a service call gone sideways, moments of frustration are part of the job. But when irritation turns into anger, it can scorch relationships, morale, and productivity. Managing anger isn’t about suppressing emotion — it’s about controlling how you respond. Great leaders learn to use frustration as fuel for problem-solving, not as firepower against their team.
Understanding the Spark
Anger in the workplace usually doesn’t come out of nowhere. It builds slowly, often from unmet expectations, repeated mistakes, or communication breakdowns.
Consider this scenario: A propane delivery driver repeatedly fails to log mileage correctly in his daily report. You’ve reminded him twice, but the error shows up again — and this time, the auditor flags it. Your first instinct might be to snap. But if you take a step back, the real issue may not be carelessness; it could be confusion about the reporting system, lack of train-
ing, or unclear expectations.
By taking a moment to analyze the ‘why’ behind your frustration, you can address the root cause instead of just reacting to the symptom.
1. Pause Before You Pounce
In the heat of the moment, taking even a few seconds to breathe can prevent a blow-up. When anger hits, your body releases adrenaline — your heart rate spikes, and logic takes a back seat. A simple mental reset helps you regain control.
Try this:
• Take three slow, deep breaths before responding.
• Count to five in your head before speaking.
• If needed, excuse yourself to cool off before continuing the conversation. When things heat up, a good rule to remember: never respond in the same minute you get angry. That pause often leads to clearer communication.
2. Separate the Person from the Problem
It’s easy to make anger personal, but effective leaders focus on behavior, not
character. Instead of saying, ‘You’re careless with paperwork,’ try, ‘The paperwork wasn’t completed correctly — let’s look at what went wrong.’
This approach:
• Keeps the conversation respectful
• Avoids putting the employee on the defensive
• Opens the door to collaborative problem-solving
For example: If your technician forgets to restock the truck after a call, frame it as, ‘I noticed the parts inventory was low after yesterday’s job. How can we make sure that doesn’t happen again?’ instead of, ‘You never take care of your truck.’
3. Use the “Camera Test”
Before confronting an issue, imagine a camera recorded the situation. Would the video show a clear mistake or a misunderstanding? This technique helps remove emotion and encourages fact-based discussions.
You might feel furious that a driver “blew off” a safety inspection. But the camera might show he was waiting on a part that delayed his check. This visualization prevents knee-jerk reactions and helps you respond with fairness and perspective.
4. Channel the Energy into Solutions
Anger, when directed correctly, can be a powerful motivator for positive change. Once you’ve cooled down, ask yourself:
• What specifically needs to change?
• Is this a training issue, communication gap, or accountability problem?
• What can I do differently as a manager to prevent this next time?
For example, when a manager notices repeated missed delivery windows, it’s easy to assume employees aren’t trying. In reality, the issue may be poor scheduling. By taking a few minutes each morning to review routes together, many managers
find that frustrations — and missed stops — quickly drop.
5. Communicate Expectations Early and Often
Many workplace flare-ups happen because expectations weren’t clear in the first place. Don’t assume employees ‘should know better.’ Spell out responsibilities and standards upfront.
Set up regular check-ins to:
• Review what’s working and what’s not
• Clarify upcoming priorities
• Reinforce safety and compliance expectations
6. Learn to Recognize Your Triggers
Everyone has different anger triggers. It might be missed deadlines, lack of followthrough, repeated mistakes, or a disrespectful tone. Once you know what sets you off, you can anticipate your reaction and plan better responses.
For example, if you know last-minute scheduling changes send your blood pressure up, delegate dispatch updates to someone with more flexibility or set a protocol that reduces surprises.
7. Create a Culture of Accountability (Without Fear)
Anger often festers in environments where problems are ignored until they boil over. Building a culture of accountability — where employees own their mistakes and fix them — helps reduce your need to play ‘bad cop.’ You can do this by:
• Encouraging employees to self-report small errors
• Praising transparency
• Addressing issues early, privately, and calmly
8. Take Care of Yourself, Too
Leadership is demanding. Sleep deprivation, long hours, and constant pressure can make anger harder to control. Simple selfcare steps can dramatically improve your emotional regulation:
• Get adequate rest before high-stress weeks (like winter demand surges)
• Take short breaks between service calls or office meetings
• Make time for something outside of work — a hobby, walk, or quick gym session
9. Know When to Walk Away — Temporarily
If you feel your voice rising or your patience slipping, it’s okay to hit pause. Say, ‘Let’s revisit this in 15 minutes’ or ‘I want to give this the attention it deserves — let’s regroup after lunch.’ This signals professionalism, not weakness. It models emotional maturity and earns respect from your team.
Wrapping It Up: Leadership Is Emotional Labor
Managing anger doesn’t mean pretending everything’s fine. It means mastering the discipline to stay calm under pressure — a skill that separates good managers from great leaders.
In an industry as high-stakes as propane — where safety, customer satisfaction, and teamwork matter daily — emotional control isn’t just a ‘soft skill.’ It’s a safety tool, a business advantage, and a relationship builder. Next time frustration bubbles up, remember: your team is watching not just how you lead, but how you react. Cool heads build stronger companies — and stronger teams.
Time Running Out: Enroll in the 2025 Texas Duty to Warn Mailing Program
How are you reminding your customers about propane safety? Participate in the 2025 Duty to Warn Safety Mailing Program — an easy way to protect both your company and your customers. The Duty to Warn program helps you meet your legal responsibility to inform customers about potential hazards and promote safe propane use, keeping everyone protected and informed. Compliance is easier than you think. The Propane Council of Texas offers a comprehensive Duty to Warn Safety Mailing Program, providing a Texas-specific safety brochure covering essential topics like what to do if you smell gas and carbon monoxide safety.
How does it work?
1. Texas propane retailers go to www.procot.org/dutytowarn
2. Complete the online registration form & upload your Texas propane customer mailing list to the form.
3. Registration package is automatically
sent to a third-party mail house.
4. You will receive email confirmation as soon as your registration is received.
5. Your company name is ink jetted on to the Texas safety mailer.
6. The safety mailer is sent to your Texas customers within 30 days by non-profit bulk mail.
7. Once mailed and payment is received, you will receive a postage receipt and notarized affidavit from the mail house that your mailing is complete.
What does it cost? The biggest savings to you is there is no cost for the brochure when
mailed in Texas. ProCOT covers the big cost, the postage, to Texas customers.
Same fees as last year. Each Texas retailer participant is responsible for two pass-through fees. You, the retailer, are only responsible for a small $38 fulfillment flat fee and 9.5 cents list processing fee per address.
Important mailing list tips
Virtually every software program containing customer information can be exported into a spreadsheet mailing list.
All lists must be uploaded to online registration. Please do not email lists.
No PDFs. Mailing lists must be in Excel or csv file.
Please remove customer notes, like COD, Cash Only, etc. If this is next to their name, this will print on the outside of the mailer.
Deadline. Act now, because time is running out. The deadline to have your mailing go out in 2025 is December 4, 2025. The program is first come, first served while stock is available during the 2025-2026 heating season.
PERC Update
Gallon Sales Increase for Texas in 2024
New Annual Propane Sales Report Released
The latest annual report shows that in 2024, U.S. retail sales of odorized propane totaled 8.810 billion gallons—a 2.1% decline from 8.995 billion gallons in 2023. While national sales dipped due to recordwarm winter months that reduced heating demand, Texas bucked the trend with an increase in gallon sales, highlighting the state’s
continued growth and resilience in the propane market.
Annually, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) asks for propane retailer participation to complete the report. This information is vital to helping PERC and the industry understand market trends across the propane industry and the evolv-
ing needs of individual retailers of odorized propane. It also ensures that each state receives an accurate amount of rebate funding from PERC to support vital local projects that impact safety, training, and growth. You can download the annual sales report at propane.com. Search for Annual Sales Report.
Don’t Miss Out on Up to $10,000 for Your Local High Schools & Trade Schools to Adopt Propane Curriculum
Texas propane marketers have an opportunity to shape the next generation of HVAC and plumbing professionals — and strengthen the future workforce — by connecting their local trade and technical schools with the Propane Education & Research Council’s (PERC) HVAC Technical School Grant Program.
Through this initiative, educational institutions can receive up to $10,000 in funding to enhance their labs and curriculum with hands-on propane training. By partnering with a nearby school, you can help introduce future technicians to the benefits and safe handling of propane systems — while ensuring more graduates enter the workforce ready to install and service propane equipment.
Two Grant Levels: High Schools and Technical Programs
High Schools
Eligible for a $5,000 grant to incorporate PERC’s Overview of Propane Distribution Systems curriculum — a foundational eight-hour propane systems program.
If selected, school must purchase essential lab tools and propane-related equipment such as:
• Pressure measuring devices
• Liquid leak detector solution
• Gas pipe, tubing, and fitting samples
• Propane hydrometer and supply source cylinder
• PPE, regulators, and gas piping
• A propane gas appliance and tank setup
Technical Schools & Community Colleges
Eligible for a $5,000 or $10,000 grant to adopt the 80-hour HVAC and Plumber Technical Training curriculum — an
in-depth, hands-on course.
Includes advanced lab materials:
• Category One, Three, and Four propane appliances
• Four venting components
• Regulator(s), supply source, and piping
• Pressure measurement tools and leak detector solution
How Propane Marketers Can Get Involved
Propane marketers play a key role in expanding awareness of this opportunity. Encourage your local high schools, trade schools, or community colleges to apply — and offer to serve as a Propane Advisor. Advisors:
• Partner directly with instructors to guide equipment setup and safety.
• Speak to the class twice during instruction.
• Verify safe installations and help schools source key materials like hydrometers.
Even if a school doesn’t have an existing advisor, PERC will help appoint one. This hands-on partnership helps your community gain skilled workers — and positions your business as a leader in workforce development.
Program Snapshot
Who Can Apply: U.S. educational institutions (high schools, tech schools, community colleges) offering HVAC, plumbing, or related trades.
Application Period: September 1 –December 19, 2025
Instructor Training: March 18–20, 2026, at the Pennsylvania Petroleum Association Technical Education Center
Instructional Period: Fall 2026 or Spring 2027
Grant Payment: 75% at contract completion; remaining 25% upon final report by June 1, 2027
Why It Matters
This program isn’t just a grant — it’s a pipeline to skilled, propane-trained technicians who will serve your region for decades to come. Many schools want to teach about alternative fuels but lack the funding or equipment. Your outreach could be the spark that connects them with resources they need.
By helping one local school apply, you’re not only supporting students and teachers — you’re investing in your company’s future hiring pool and strengthening your community’s energy workforce. Don’t let these funds go unused.
Some technical and vocational schools
in Texas have already received PERC’s HVAC Technical School Grant — using the funds to upgrade their propane training labs, purchase new appliances, and give students hands-on experience with real propane systems. Their success shows this program isn’t just possible — it’s practical. Your local school could be next in line to benefit from this nationwide investment in propane education.
The benefits of growing local technicians skilled in propane handling and installation is good for both your company and your community.
Take Action — Don’t Leave Money on the Table
Step 1: Share this opportunity with your local school or training center.
Step 2: Offer to serve as a Propane Advisor or connect the school with one.
Step 3: Help ensure your community benefits from PERC’s national investment in propane education.
Learn more and download the 2026 HVAC Technical School Grant Program Brochure at www.propane.com/ TechSchoolGrant — and help make propane part of tomorrow’s classroom.
Isn’t it time to trust that your insurance works as hard as you do?
• You will receive good old fashioned customer service.
• You will be educated about your policy coverages and shown where you might be vulnerable.
• You will receive multiple options for your insurance.
Inside the Industry
Residential Space Heating with Electricity on the Rise
As detailed by the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, in 2024, 42% of American households used electricity for primary residential space heating, an increase of 7% from 2010 when this figure was only 35% nationally. Put another way, electricity’s residential heating market share increased 20% over the last 14 years. During this same 14-year period, the percentage of Americans who used natural gas for household heating declined from 49% to 47%. While natural gas is still the most common residential thermal fuel, its overall market share has shrunk.
Last year, across the country, 5% of households used propane for primary space heating – the same aggregate market penetration as 14 years earlier. Among delivered fuels, propane stood alone in maintaining market share. In 2010, 6% of households used heating oil and 2% relied on wood. In 2024, those figures declined to 4% and 1%, respectively. In 2018, propane’s residential space heating market share surpassed heating oil, and has remained there ever since. Clearly, some homeowners who once burned heating oil or wood have transitioned to propane, which is great for air quality and public health.
Last year, 53% of all propane sales were to the residential sector, with the lion’s share of fuel being used for space heating. NPGA is focused on protecting and growing propane’s use as a clean-burning thermal fuel. To that end, NPGA has created a new data visualization tool dedicated to providing more information on the residential thermal marketplace, with data available for each state, county, zip code, and tribal nation across the country. The space heating market tool is accessible to NPGA members via the Member Dashboard.
For more information, contact NPGA’s Senior Director of State Advocacy & Affairs, Jacob Peterson.
Doris Ruth (Black) Casey, 90, a lifelong resident of Fairfield, Texas, passed away on October 17. Alongside her family, Doris worked tirelessly for Casey Propane and R&D Land and Cattle Company. She leaves behind her husband of 70 years, Roy Jr. Our thoughts are with her family.
Congratulations to Heather Shreves, Buster Propane, Corpus Christi, TX, who was recently recognized as one of five 2025 EmpowerHer award winners. The award is given out by Women in Propane and is dedicated to the women who set the standards for excellence in customer service, operations, brand loyalty, and dedication.
Nominate an NPGA Member for an Award!
Recognize outstanding colleagues for their accomplishments in the propane industry – nominations are now open for NPGA’s four prestigious awards! All award applications are available on the Member Dashboard of the NPGA website under Benefits & Services – NPGA Awards. Nominations are due to Nancy Padilla at npadilla@npga.org by December 1, 2025.
Distinguished Service Award
The Distinguished Service Award Committee is seeking nominations for the Distinguished Service Award (DSA). The Distinguished Service Award is NPGA’s highest honor and the recipient is awarded an honorary lifetime membership in NPGA. The DSA is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to NPGA or the propane industry. The honoree is selected by the Distinguished Service Award Committee, a panel comprised of all active past presidents and chairs of NPGA.
State Director of the Year Award
The State Director of the Year Award recognizes the NPGA State Director deemed outstanding in three principal areas: communicating with members in his/her state, working with NPGA committees, and attending both national and state meetings. The winner is selected by a panel consisting of the current NPGA chair, the immediate past chair, and the NPGA district directors.
NPGA Safety Award
NPGA Safety Awards are bestowed upon individuals, companies, or branches of larger firms that have made extraordinary contributions to industry safety through public or community education, hazardous materials training and support, or employee training. NPGA’s Technology, Standards and Safety (TS&S) Committee Chairs
(past and present) select the award recipient(s).
Bill Hill Award
The Bill Hill Memorial Award is presented to an NPGA member who has made significant contributions to the propane industry in the area of public affairs at the national, state, or local level. The award honors the memory of the late William C. Hill, who from 1974 to 1979 chaired the National Committee on Propane Allocation and Price Regulations, and includes a grant to an educational institution of the recipient’s choice. The selection Committee consists of the NPGA Chair and Immediate Past Chair, and the current and immediate past Chairs of the Governmental Affairs Committee.
Researchers Explore Turning Dairy Waste into Propane
Researchers at the University of Vermont (UVM) are working on an innovative approach to convert dairy farm waste into propane, offering a potential new pathway for cleaner fuel production.
Traditionally, about 15 Vermont dairy farms use anaerobic digesters to convert manure into methane, which can be used to power farm operations or sold as natural gas. However, because methane is a potent greenhouse gas, UVM researchers are exploring how to interrupt that biological process earlier — before methane forms — and instead generate propane.
“If we stop that process short, we can force them to accumulate these intermediates, and these intermediates are the things that we can use to produce things like propane gas,” UVM researcher Matt Scarborough told WCAX CBS 3.
The research team, which includes collaborators from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, launched the USDA-funded project in 2022. They’re designing a photoreactor that uses light to convert manure byproducts into cleanerburning propane rather than methane.
UVM PhD candidate Mona Davoudimehr told WCAX that an average dairy cow produces about 22,000 kilograms of manure annually — a major source of potential pollution and energy feedstock.
Propane offers advantages over
methane and other gases: it has a lower carbon intensity, is easier to transport and store, and can be used in existing infrastructure and equipment without modification.
If successful, the technology could help turn agricultural waste into a scalable source of propane — providing both environmental benefits and new opportunities for America’s farms.
Editor’s Note: Portions of this story were adapted from reporting by WCAX CBS 3, Burlington, Vermont.
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Not Your Average Fire Pit Propane’s sleek new multitasker delivers warmth, comfort, and style
SharkNinja, Inc., a global product design and technology company, has launched the Ninja™ Fireside360™, the brand’s first-ever all-in-one outdoor heating system and propane fire pit that delivers powerful warmth from headto-toe, all at the turn of a dial. This move marks Ninja’s expansion into the outdoor lifestyle space.
As nearly 67% of homeowners plan to dedicate more time to outdoor upgrades compared to 2021 due to post-pandemic outdoor living trends, Ninja is answering this demand by eliminating the age-old frustrations that have plagued fire pit enthusiasts for generations. Gone are the days of constantly moving around flames for warmth, dodging smoke clouds, and tediously cleaning up after hosting a bonfire. The Ninja™ Fireside360™ delivers 80,000 BTUs of 360-degree warmth through proprietary HeatZone™ Technology—with smokeless warmth, zero cleanup, and zero cold spots.
“With the Fireside360™, we’ve delivered a solution that eliminates the compromises
people have accepted for generations—the smoke, the uneven heating, the constant repositioning, and the seasonal surrender of outdoor spaces. This empowers outdoor enthusiasts who refuse to let the seasons dictate when they can enjoy their favorite spaces,” said Kelly Megel, VP of Ninja Marketing. “Whether you’re hosting gatherings on your patio, or simply reclaiming months of outdoor enjoyment at home, the Fireside360™ delivers the perfect blend of convenience, performance, and value for anyone who sees outdoor living as a year-round sanctuary.”
The Ninja™ Fireside360™ combines smart engineering with practical functionality through several industry-first features:
HeatZone™ Technology: Precision-controlled 360-degree heat distribution delivers head-to-toe heat coverage, without cold zones around the fire pit.
Triple Operation Modes: Users can choose between three operation modes— powerful outdoor heater, smokeless fire pit, or
both at the same time – all controlled via intuitive dial interfaces that provide instant on/off operation and granular heat and flame adjustment.
Smokeless Operation: Efficient propane system delivers smokeless flames, meaning no more burning eyes, smoky clothes, or guests constantly repositioning themselves.
No Cleanup Required: No ash, embers, or residue to clean up after every use, making outdoor entertaining effortless from start to finish.
Powerful Performance: 80,000 BTU output ensures maximum comfort and warmth for extended outdoor enjoyment.
All-Season Reliability: Designed for use in various weather conditions, allowing users to extend their outdoor season beyond traditional limits.
Easy Setup: Simple assembly process with immediate readiness once paired with a standard propane tank (sold separately).
Multi-Surface Compatibility: Designed for safe use on grass, dirt, stone, and wood surfaces, featuring a cool-to-touch base.
Extended Performance: Up to 28 hours of ambient flame operation, up to 11 hours of radiant heat, or up to 8.5 hours of simultaneous heat and flame on a standard propane tank
The Ninja™ Fireside360™ is available for $449.99 on NinjaKitchen.com, with additional retail partners expected to be announced in the coming months.
