BPN: The Women in Propane (WIP) Leadership Forum will offer expanded training opportunities at the 2016 National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) Expo in Nashville. Can you describe the idea behind adding a full day of training to the 2016 WIP Leadership Forum agenda?
WIP Leadership Forum Logo

WIP: Leadership develops when people are offered outstanding training and support. While men and women in the propane industry have opportunities to learn about technical and safety aspects as well as business operations through NPGA and PERC [Propane Education & Research Council] programs, specific leadership training brings a new dynamic to a person’s career, to a company’s success, and to the industry’s continued strength. The Women in Propane Council has learned there are ambitious people working toward advancement who are not exposed to meaningful, sustained professional development, especially in the realm of effective leadership. By implementing a day-long program led by nationally acclaimed experts Margaret Morford and Lisa Gunderson, WIP provides registrants the opportunity to attend four different seminars geared to improving leadership and professional development skills. Employees will go from being “professional” to being “professional game changers” capable of making a positive impact on their respective companies.

BPN: What are the components of the Leadership Forum in Nashville?

WIP: The greatest value for attendees is the strategically-designed day-long package that includes two seminars in the morning and two in the afternoon, Friday, April 8. An exclusive break room/networking lounge is also available to registrants throughout the day. During convention hours, both Saturday and Sunday, a professional photographer will be taking head shots on the trade show floor. Also, a social media consultant will be available to upload digital photos into registrants’ personal accounts.This complete package is offered at the introductory rate of $150.

BPN: Who can attend the Leadership Forum? What sort of benefits do attendees receive?

WIP: Anyone (male or female) who is already registeredfor the NPGA Southeastern Convention in Nashville may also register for the Leadership Forum. Attendees of the Leadership Forum will learn concepts that exceptional managers must possess. In addition to learning what “management courage” really takes to be effective, forum attendees will gain insight into how to build successful alliances, how to lead in changing times, and how to develop accountability at all levels.

BPN: What is the scope of the leadership training? Who should attend?

WIP:As a full day of training devoted to leadership concepts, the Forum’s expert presenters will cover four focus areas: 1) Management Courage, 2) Workplace Influence, 3) How to Manage Change, and 4) Creating Workforce Accountability. The program will benefit propane professionals of all levels, whether they are employees of family-owned, regional, or multi-state firms, or business owners, entrepreneurs, corporate officers, rising staff members, or managers at all ranks within company operations.

BPN:How do people learn more and register for the WIP Leadership Forum?

WIP: To learn more, visit the “Education” tab at www.npgaexpo.org. For further questions, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Expo attendees are also encouraged to attend the WIP Roundtable Session “Powering Mentors” on April 9 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. This free event will be followed by a Networking Reception from 5:00-6:00 p.m. that provides attendees an opportunity to visit with colleagues over hors d’oeuvres and beverages.