As the industry advances through new market opportunities, workforce transitions and energy conversations, one thing is unmistakably clear: The future of propane depends on the engagement, development and empowerment of young and emerging leaders. That commitment is taking shape through a new initiative led by the Young Professionals Council (YPC) of the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA), a growing force that continues to build momentum and shape the next generation of industry leadership. The effort formally launches as the NPGA Young Professionals State Engagement Program.
In 2026, the council is ready to make its largest impact yet with the launch of this first-ever nationwide initiative, designed to connect young professionals directly with their state associations while strengthening communication and leadership pipelines across the industry.
At the same time, the council is opening nominations for a distinguished award — the Young Professional of the Year, recognizing outstanding individuals in the industry who exemplify excellence, service and the promise of long-term leadership.
Both programs open the door for companies, state associations and individual professionals to actively participate in supporting the next wave of industry talent in meaningful ways. And with nomination and commitment periods now open, this January marks the perfect time to join the movement and get involved.
A New Era of State-Level Leadership: Introducing the NPGA Young Professionals State Engagement Program
For years, propane leaders have recognized a growing need for deeper cross-state collaboration, more structured leadership pipelines and stronger engagement at an earlier career stage. The YPC State Engagement Program answers those needs directly. Launching in January, this program enables state propane associations to select and sponsor a young professional to serve as a formal liaison between their association and NPGA/YPC for a term of one to three years.
This role is designed to become a bridge, connecting local leaders with national initiatives, networking avenues and leadership development opportunities that historically may have been difficult for younger professionals to access.
This program serves the industry in several ways. A large portion of the propane workforce is nearing their retirement chapter, and associations are seeking ways to increase involvement from younger members. By sponsoring a liaison, a state association gains a committed young professional who can help connect members across state and national levels, grow membership and opportunities, and add fresh perspective to evolving industry issues.
Rather than waiting for information to trickle down, the liaison provides a direct line between state associations and NPGA/YPC, ensuring emerging leaders stay informed on federal policy, workforce initiatives, industry news and national events.
One of the greatest strengths of the propane community is its willingness to collaborate. The program aims to connect young professionals across the country, giving them access to peers, mentors and industry champions well beyond their local regions.
By building a structured leadership pipeline, the propane industry signals a clear commitment to continuity and generational transition, ensuring that tomorrow’s decision-makers are informed, engaged and ready.
The YPC State Engagement Committee will actively assist any state looking for applicants, helping identify qualified young professionals and supporting boards through the selection process.
Key Dates & Deadlines: State Associations Act Now
For state associations looking to participate, timing matters. If your state association is interested in participating in this program, liaison applications are now open through Jan. 30, with the selection period running from Feb. 1 through Feb. 14.
Associations interested in participating — or individuals hoping to be considered — should contact Krysta Wanner, YPC State Engagement Committee chair, at krysta@westernpga .org or Steph Hennen, YPC chair, at shennen@lakesgas.com. Support your young professionals, strengthen your association and invest in the longevity of the propane industry. This program represents a defining step forward in leadership cultivation — and now is the moment for state associations to get involved.
To view participating states, visit npga .org/membership/business-councils/young-professionals-council.
Young Professional of the Year Award: Nominations Open Now
In addition to launching the State Engagement Program, nominations for the 2026 Young Professional of the Year Award are officially open now, with the nomination window running through Feb. 13.
This annual award highlights a standout young professional who demonstrates leadership, initiative and commitment to the industry.
To be eligible, nominees must:
- Be 18 to 40 years old by the nomination deadline
- Be employed full time by an NPGA member company or state propane association
- Be nominated by someone else (no self-nominations allowed)
- Meet the leadership and engagement criteria outlined on the nomination form
The nomination process is designed to help companies celebrate promising employees, spotlight rising leaders and showcase the talent shaping the industry’s future.
YPC Day of Service
The propane industry stands at a critical generational moment. As longstanding leaders retire or shift roles, the need for prepared, well-connected propane professionals has become increasingly urgent. The YPC has answered this challenge by creating programming that supports young professionals not just in name, but in actionable, meaningful ways.
In addition to leadership development, YPC continues to strengthen local communities through service initiatives. During YPC’s recent Day of Service, members partnered with Operation BBQ Relief to prepare and distribute 1,000 meals to first responders across Tampa, Florida; St. Paul, Minnesota; and Kansas City, Missouri.
Operation BBQ Relief has provided more than 11 million meals following natural disasters, with 99% cooked using propane — a powerful illustration of the industry’s relevance and reliability during emergencies.
How Young Professionals Can Get Involved Today
YPC membership is open to individuals born in 1986 or later. Any employee of an NPGA member company who is 40 years old or under is eligible to join.
Membership benefits include:
- Professional development opportunities
- Participation at NPGA conferences and events
- Connection with peers and leaders across the nation
- Growth and learning from exclusive educational webinars
- Lead opportunities within YPC committees
Joining YPC is one of the simplest, most effective steps a young professional can take toward long-term success in the propane industry.
This industry has always been built on resilience, community and innovation. As we move into 2026 and beyond, that legacy continues through the rising generation of passionate, committed and capable young professionals who are stepping into leadership roles nationwide. With the launch of the State Engagement Program and the continued celebration of excellence through the Young Professional of the Year Award, NPGA’s Young Professionals Council isn’t just preparing the next generation — it’s empowering them. Follow the QR code to learn more about the YPC.
