All are welcome to attend this meeting of the NEFI Government Affairs Committee. NEFI’s lobbying team and state association representatives will provide updates on legislative and regulatory issues that directly affect your business, including industry efforts to combat the “electrify everything” movement. Mike Estes of Estes Oil & Propane, the committee’s new Chair, will lead this important discussion.

Jim Collura is Vice President and Director of Government Affairs at the National Energy & Fuels Institute (NEFI), a trade association that has represented Main Street energy providers since 1942. Jim spearheads NEFI's advocacy efforts in Washington, DC and fights daily to promote and defend the industry before Congress and federal agencies. He is also responsible for developing key coalitions and partnerships with allied organizations that are pivotal to success in today's political environment. Jim worked for U.S. Senator Judd Gregg, a Republican from New Hampshire, and a prominent faith-based organization before joining the NEFI team in 2005.

Learn from the real experts who are growing their businesses through acquisitions. Four of the top buyers in the delivered fuel industry will participate in this comprehensive look into all aspects of acquiring a business. In addition to learning aspects of how to acquire a business, the program will cover the items buyers are looking for to complete a successful transaction. Learn what the current value drivers are in the industry. Come early to get a seat as this is sure to be a standing-room-only crowd.

Barrett Conway is a Director at Cetane Associates, engaging in M&A advisory, business value estimates, and transaction analysis, leading the firm’s deal execution team. He contributes more than seven years overall experience in the professional financial advisory space. As a member of the National Propane Gas Association, Barrett was named to the propane industry’s inaugural class of 30 Under 30 in 2020.

Prior to joining Cetane, he worked for five years as an associate in the wealth management area of HighTower Advisors in Houston.

Outside of work, Barrett has been involved various organizations in Houston including Young Professionals in Finance, Yes Prep, and CHARM Ministries.

Barrett received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Texas A&M University with a concentration in Finance.

Griffin Sharp serves as the Director of Corporate Development for Dead River Company, leading pipeline development, valuation, negotiation, due diligence, and deal closing for Northern New England’s largest full-service home heating provider. His deep experience with company analysis and transactions has helped to accelerate Dead River’s acquisition program during a period of significant corporate growth, including by fueling its expansion into several new markets.  He is a member of various fuel industry trade organizations throughout New England and serves on the board of his local Red Cross chapter in Southern Maine.

Before joining Dead River Company, Griffin held senior positions in valuation and transactions as an intellectual property consultant and in the biotechnology industry. He has Bachelor degrees in Economics and International Relations from Michigan State University and a Masters Degree in Financial Economics from the University of Detroit Mercy.

Mr. Townsend is the CEO of Townsend Energy Group serving customers in MA, NH, and ME. Townsend is one of the largest heating oil and propane distributors in New England, serving residential and commercial customers in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Mr. Townsend has been and continues to be active in several organizations representing the petroleum industry. Those positions include current Chairman of NAORE, past Chairman of NORA, current member of the NORA Executive Committee, past Chairman of the National Heating Oil Task Force, past Co-Chair of the PMAA Heating Fuels Committee, past President of NEFI, past Chairman of the NEFI Legislative Committee, past Chairman of the NEFI Finance Committee, current member of NEFI Board of Directors and Executive Committee, member Massachusetts Energy Marketers Association, member of Oil Heat Council of New Hampshire, member of Maine Energy Marketers Association, and member of Propane Gas Association of New England. Currently, Mr. Townsend is the Chairman of the Board of Energi Inc., Chairman of Townsend Insurance Group LLC and past Chairman of the TOV Insurance Group.

He has been the recipient of the NEFI Charles Burkhart award for distinguished industry service, as well as the Theodore Roosevelt award from the Independent Connecticut Petroleum Association. He also serves as a Trustee of the Salisbury School in Salisbury, CT.”

Dennis J. O’Brien serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. O’Brien has been involved in the propane and heating oil industry for over 32 years.

He began his career in 1980 as a General Manager with Hodgdon Energy, Inc., a petroleum distributor in Berlin, New Hampshire. In 1988, Mr. O’Brien became a District Manager at Dead River Company, a regional petroleum distributor in Waterville, Maine where he continued to work until 2000. Subsequently, Mr. O’Brien joined Irving Oil Company, a Canadian-based oil and natural gas refining/distribution enterprise headquartered in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. While working for Irving until 2004, he served as Irving’s New England Operations Manager with responsibility for 20 field offices serving in excess of 100,000 energy customers.

In August 2004, Mr. O’Brien founded Seacoast Energy Consulting, a consulting company focused on delivering value to ownership and senior management for New England companies providing retail energy services. Seacoast Energy Consulting provided energy companies throughout the Northeast with guidance on strategic planning, planning leadership training, management, sales and operational consulting, enterprise valuations and merger acquisition assistance.

David Stroupe, Vice President of Corporate Development, has nearly 30 years of propane industry experience in a variety of senior-level management, operations and business development positions. Before joining EDP in 2017, Mr. Stroupe served as president of Yankee Propane. He began his propane career as vice president and chief operating officer with Green Mountain Propane and later worked in business development and operations positions for major marketers including Heritage Propane and AmeriGas Partners, successfully closing on more than 100 acquisitions.

Innovation and free agency are the basis of a healthy marketplace. Discover the benefits of owning your data and learn the importance of true vendor flexibility. Learn about the next generation of business automation and cash flow management tools like text-to-pay to help propel your business forward and streamline efficiencies.

Jon is an accomplished payment professional with 10+ years of history in recurring and utility payments. As the Director of Partner Development at Qualpay he oversees business development and sales efforts while working closely with partners to educate merchants on effective cash flow management practices. Jon has successfully launched multiple channel programs, managing all aspects of the process: from the creation of the business development strategy to the implementation of the marketing promotion initiatives. Prior to joining Qualpay in 2017 Jon served as the Vice President of Domestic & International eCommerce at Evo Payments INTL.

Larry Richmond is the nationally recognized authority and visionary of utility rate processing for the heating fuels industry with multiple landmark accomplishments to his credit over the last two decades. Dating back to his years as the founder of AVATAS, Larry has personally worked with and been accountable to more than 1,000 energy companies located across the country ,ranging in size from small local operators to publicly traded conglomerates operating in multiply states. Larry successfully lobbied MasterCard to reclassify home heating retailers into a lower risk utility processing category, resulting in billions of dollars of savings for the heating oil and propane industries.

Learn how to improve your current housekeeping protocol, while acquiring new tips and techniques to manage fuel quality and handle potential field operability issues associated with ultra-low sulfur heating oil and higher biodiesel blends.

Mark K. Smith is an energy industry veteran with over 30 -years’ experience. Currently, Mark is the Sales Manager for Advanced Fuel Solutions, where he leads a team of fuel quality professionals helping fuel dealers improve the quality of their fuel and the experience their customers have with it. Over the years, Mark has held various positions of increasing responsibility in the retail fuel dealer market segment managing residential & commercial fuel sales, along with branded gasoline stations.

Mark serves on the Board of Directors of South-Central Pennsylvania Energy Association, as well as an active Board member of multiple Oil & Energy Service Professionals Chapters throughout the Mid-Atlantic. Mark is an active member of Pennsylvania Motor Trucking Association, Pennsylvania Petroleum Association, and Delaware Valley Fuel Dealers Association.

Topics include:

Drug and alcohol testing, return to duty process, and clearinghouse reporting by Gauri Bhalakia and Matt Pappas, ARCpoint Labs

Driver qualification file, application process, medical qualification, hours of service, and CDL/Hazmat Exemption/TWIC by Rick Schweitzer, NEFI Regulatory Counsel

Gauri Bhalakia is the President of ARCpoint Labs of Southboro and Worcester, bringing over a decade of experience in project and account management working in the semiconductor industry. Since starting ARCpoint Labs of Southboro in 2016, Gauri has worked with employers both in public and private sectors providing assistance and risk mitigation, through pre-employment screening, policy assistance, drug and alcohol testing, DOT physicals along with COVID-19 testing, wellness and occupational health services. Her key focus is to work with employers in DOT and safety sensitive industries managing their programs and providing compliance support.

ARCpoint Labs of Southboro was awarded Massachusetts Minority Owned Business of the Year for 2022 by SBA.

Richard P. Schweitzer is the regulatory counsel for NEFI. He is an attorney in Washington, D.C. with more than 20 years of experience in handling regulatory, legislative and litigation matters for transportation companies and their trade associations. The practice includes a broad base of administrative, tax, corporate and international issues, involving the executive, legislative and judicial branches of the federal and state governments.

This presentation will identify the major transactional issues confronted by motivated buyers and sellers, highlight the distinct motivations of each side, provide transactional positions designed to advance the buyer's or seller's objectives, and explore approaches to bridging these differences.

Brian Freeman focuses his practice on environmental compliance counseling, permitting, site remediation, and related litigation regarding federal and state regulatory programs. Areas of particular focus include air quality, climate change, petroleum management, and waste management/recycling. Brian has worked with a variety of clients, ranging from Fortune 100 conglomerates to individual entrepreneurs, and across a broad spectrum of industries, including petroleum, aerospace, specialty chemicals, electricity generation, composting and organics management. He has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America© in the area of Environmental Law since 2006, and in the area of Litigation - Environmental since 2011.

Earl Phillips is the founding chair of the firm’s Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group. The majority of his practice is devoted to identifying and achieving strategic project, transactional, or compliance/risk management objectives, with particular focus on environmental, energy, and health/safety considerations. Earl regularly represents energy clients with respect to project evaluation, permitting, and transactional matters. He has also advised companies involved in the bulk storage of petroleum and the transmission (pipelines) for natural gas and fuel oil.

Jon Schaefer, a partner in the firm’s Environmental, Energy + Telecommunications Group, focuses his practice on environmental compliance counseling, permitting, site remediation, occupational health and safety, energy regulatory compliance and siting, and litigation related to federal and state regulatory programs. His experiences enable him to work effectively with experts and legal counsel to help clients minimize risk and solve compliance, enforcement, transactional, and regulatory matters. Jon is also the Editor of the Environmental Law + blog, which presents clients and friends across a wide range of industries and businesses with a timely and thoughtful forum for discussion on environmental, health and safety, and energy topics.

Learn about the types of heating oil claims, lessons in handling these claims and mitigation measures to reduce liability.

Carl Bisson has over 30 years’ experience in the propane and petroleum industry, advising marketers on risk management techniques for bulk storage, transportation, safety, and regulatory compliance.

Mike Freill has over 40 years’ experience in heating oil storage and related industries. A Professional Mechanical Engineer, he has offered expert testimony in court cases pertaining to heating oil storage.

Policymakers in the northeast are doing everything in their power to eliminate the heating oil industry by electrifying buildings and implementing regulatory programs. Learn more about how to prepare your business for and capitalize on Portfolio Standards, Cap-and-Trade Programs, Clean Heat Standards, and Commercial Building Policies.

Joe Uglietto is the President of Diversified Energy Specialists (DES), a renewable energy consulting and environmental markets trading company. At DES, Joe trades in thermal energy portfolio standards in the Northeast and is an aggregator in the Massachusetts Alternative Portfolio Standard, representing clients across renewable thermal technologies.

Joe has been monitoring the efforts of other states in the Northeast to implement cap-and-trade programs and clean heat standards for the thermal sector. Joe looks forward to working with heating oil retailers and wholesalers in Massachusetts and Vermont when a Clean Heat Standard is implemented in both states.

Assisting corporations from a variety of industries achieve carbon neutrality, Joe procures carbon offset credits from technologies both domestically and internationally. Joe has consulted on projects for the Clean Fuels Alliance America, the National Oilheat Research Alliance, and many Northeast states' fuel dealer associations on a range of topics, with the common goal of decarbonizing the building sector in the Northeast. Joe's recent work has focused on the flaws of current thermal electrification policy and the design of clean heat standards.

NEFI Regulatory Counsel Rick Schweitzer will show you how to avoid common violations at roadside inspections and in a DOT audit.

Richard P. Schweitzer is the regulatory counsel for NEFI. He is an attorney in Washington, D.C. with more than 20 years of experience in handling regulatory, legislative and litigation matters for transportation companies and their trade associations. The practice includes a broad base of administrative, tax, corporate and international issues, involving the executive, legislative and judicial branches of the federal and state governments.

Buy-sell activity for propane and heating oil marketers has never been more active. Buyers are aggressively pursuing second and third generation retailers. The industry is innovating with new technologies, competition is stronger than ever but not just from other retailers but also from changing perspectives on more environmentally friendly energy options. Add to all of this new Inflation Reduction Act has outlined opportunities and threats impacting your business, that you must be aware of to successfully navigate the future. All of this is causing owners and family members in the business to think about what "next" looks like.

Kendall Rawls is the Director of Development for The Rawls Group. She has navigated issues that many business-owners face, including working effectively with family, building rapport with key management and outside strategic partners, influencing teamwork, and implementing strategic initiatives to drive growth and increased performance of an organization.

More info coming soon

John Bagioni is an independent meteorologist and the owner of Fax-Alert Weather Service, LLC. He provides 10-day temperature and heating degree-day forecasts, storm updates, and webinars for numerous energy associations including the National Energy & Fuels Institute and Propane Gas Association of New England among others.

During a study in Presque Isle, Maine, B20 was treated and successfully stored in an unheated bulk tank and delivered to homeowners all winter without any issues. This presentation will discuss the study, review the data, and look at future plans to test, treat, store and deliver higher BXX blends.

Stephen Boracchia is the National Accounts Manager for ET Products. He previously worked for Mobil Oil, Nalco Chemical, and Innospec. Stephen spent his career on the East Coast working in refineries, terminals, and with dealer fuel quality issues; including Sunoco Philadelphia Refinery Complex, Sun Toledo, Marathon Oil, HESS Port Reading and Bayway refineries and terminals.

Learn how to overcome the affordability issue with rising equipment costs and increase your closed sales by more than 10% and installation tickets by 25% by adding monthly payments to your quotes and leveraging new federal tax incentives provided by the Inflation Reduction Act.

Greg Burns is a successful 25-year veteran of the Liquid Fuel/HVAC and the Energy Efficiency Financing industries.

During his career, he has managed successful large regional residential and commercial sales teams focused on liquid fuels and HVAC and Plumbing equipment sales.

In his current position as VP of National Accounts at Watercress Financial, Greg educates contractors on how adding monthly payment financing into their sales process can increase closed sales by at least 10% and installation ticket size can increase by up to 25%.

More info coming soon

Room: 557 (5th floor)

This presentation will introduce Beckett's new advanced burner controls, which will benefit our industry through simple programming and diagnostics. It will also cover how to troubleshoot burner operation using detailed burner fault history to identify both the issue and remedy.

Jeff Rozga is the Technical Trainer for R.W. Beckett in Northeast Ohio. Jeff has been with the company for over 42 years. He provides training to contractors, instructors, and distributor personnel. Jeff’s areas of responsibility have included manufacturing, product development, field applications and troubleshooting burner systems. He has taught over 800 classes in the U.S. and Canada on oil and gas fired heating systems along with electronic controls. Jeff currently serves on the Education Committee for OESP. Prior to that, Jeff also served on the NATE Technical Committee for over 10 years.

This seminar will provide helpful information on what to look for when inspecting aboveground oil tanks during annual tune-ups. It will also provide information on maintaining fuel oil tanks and educating your customers on oil tank maintenance.

Eric Missigman

Justine Missigman

Many technicians struggle with low voltage wiring, both with zone valves and combination heating/ cooling appliances. Add in the increasing number of internet connected thermostats and it's no wonder it becomes confusing. This session will clear up the uncertainty.

Robert (Bob) O’Brien has extensive background in oilheat and HVAC installations and service, O’Brien is responsible for NORA’s education and training initiatives, including NORA’s Bronze, Silver and Gold technician certifications and continuing education. O’Brien’s impressive resume includes in-field experience as an oilheat technician and service manager, owner and principal of Technical Heating LLC, Mt. Sinai, NY, instructor for Oilheat Comfort Corp. and Research & Technical Consultant for NORA. Additionally, O’Brien is currently on the NFPA31 and BPI Technical Standards committees and serves as an officer with the National Association of Oil & Energy Service Professionals.

This presentation is designed to help commission an oil supply system that will ensure consistent burner operation and safety, optimize combustion efficiency, and reduce liability potential.

Alan is a Technical Support Agent and Lead Trainer for R.W Beckett. He brings with him over 30 years experience as a service technician, manager and Vocational educator. His strengths are many, honed in the military and at a leading multi-state oil and propane company. His interpersonal skills rank high on his list of attributes. Alan is committed to his trade as evidenced by his involvement and membership in OESP.

This class will cover some of the common issues with regards to power venting and combustion air. We will go over wiring details as well as proper setup of the units.

Rick is a 49-year veteran of the heating industry. He worked for Connecticut’s largest retail fuel oil company in Hartford, CT, serving 11 years as Service Manager. He then transitioned into the manufacturer’s rep business, working for the past 18 years for JAD Associates, covering the New England states. The lines he represents include Field Controls, Allanson Ignitors, Midwest Snips, FPPF Fuel Additives and Enerco / Mr. Heater.

Rick is a certified NATE and NORA instructor for several different disciplines in the HVAC field, specializing in indoor air Quality and venting.

In addition to his responsibilities at JAD Associates, Rick is an active member of several OESP groups and serves as Secretary for the Connecticut Valley, New Haven and New England Tri-State chapters. He is a co-founder of the NETS chapter and served as President of the Connecticut Valley Chapter. In 2013 he was awarded OESP’s Lou Ehrich Memorial Associate of the Year Award and in 2021 he received the OESP Board of Directors’ Outstanding Achievement Award.

Rick also serves as a member of the School Advisory Board at Entech Advanced Energy Training in Cromwell and was a member of the Craft Committee at Bristol Technical Vocational School.

This presentation will focus on the newest developments in our fill line of controls, to help the technician quickly and accurately complete the job.

Mike Warn has been the head of Carlin/ Hydrolevel Technical Support for 5 years, with responsibilities including fielding service calls from all over the country, completing a wide range of burner testing, and heading the Carlin U training program at our world headquarters. Before joining us, Mike worked as a Service Technician for 35 years in the heart of New England, giving him an honest perspective on the challenges, and solutions, for today's technicians.

Learn to take feed measurements, helpful hints on propane burner adjustments, and how to maintain your analyzer.

Rick is employed as a Manufacturers Sales Representative for EDOS Manufacturers’ Reps in Granby, MA. Training is a huge part of what Rick does for EDOS and the manufacturers he represents, and he has also done many generic training sessions on products related to the new technology the industry is increasingly adopting. He also developed approved NORA technical training programs, so Continuing Education Units may be offered to technicians attending his classes. Rick is a member of the Board of Directors for ACANE and OESP and also serves on the Education Committee.

Focus on the best practices for avoiding nuisance service calls in two specific areas: fuel pump sticking and plugged fuel filters.

Leo Verruso is the General Manager of Advanced Fuel Solutions and has been an active member of our industry for over 30 years. Leo is an active Board Member of the National Energy & Fuels Institute, as well as on the Board of Massachusetts Energy Marketers Association, where he serves on the Executive Committee. In addition to his position at AFS, Leo is the co-founder of Vets2Techs, a 501(c)(3) organization that helps connect United States Military Veterans with the workforce development needs of the energy industry.

This presentation will focus on what can we expect and what must you know as it relates to Carlin residential burners' updated design and future burner technology that will meet the demands of the industry today and into the future.

John has worked in the HVAC Industry for over 25 years, starting out as a local technician performing service calls & installations, then working his way up to service manager, overseeing 15+ technicians and 20,000+ oil and propane customers. Today, he acts as our Southern New England Territory manager responsible for the service, support and sale of both brands while hosting hands on training all across New England.

Massachusetts is moving forward with a Clean Heat Standard and Vermont plans to revisit a Clean Heat Standard next year. While other states consider similar legislation, it's important for retailers and wholesalers to be prepared for these new challenges. Learn about the design of a Clean Heat Standard and actions that companies should be taking today to thrive in these new programs.

Joe Uglietto is the President of Diversified Energy Specialists (DES), a renewable energy consulting and environmental markets trading company. At DES, Joe trades in thermal energy portfolio standards in the Northeast and is an aggregator in the Massachusetts Alternative Portfolio Standard, representing clients across renewable thermal technologies.

Joe has been monitoring the efforts of other states in the Northeast to implement cap-and-trade programs and clean heat standards for the thermal sector. Joe looks forward to working with heating oil retailers and wholesalers in Massachusetts and Vermont when a Clean Heat Standard is implemented in both states.

Assisting corporations from a variety of industries achieve carbon neutrality, Joe procures carbon offset credits from technologies both domestically and internationally. Joe has consulted on projects for the Clean Fuels Alliance America, the National Oilheat Research Alliance, and many Northeast states’ fuel dealer associations on a range of topics, with the common goal of decarbonizing the building sector in the Northeast. Joe's recent work has focused on the flaws of current thermal electrification policy and the design of clean heat standards.

Matt Cota is the Executive Director of the Vermont Fuel Dealers Association. In addition to legislative advocacy and regulatory oversight, VFDA trains approximately 1,000 students every year in the heating, electrical, and plumbing trades. Prior to joining VFDA in 2007, Cota worked both as a journalist and school teacher in Santa Barbara, California. He holds a Master’s Degree in Public Policy from California State University Northridge and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Communication from The George Washington University. In 2021, Cota was elected to the South Burlington City Council.

This seminar will give energy marketers some actionable ideas on how to quantify, evaluate and mitigate the impact of inflation and rising fuel costs on their financial operations. Attendees will leave with a better handle on the multiple facets of their finances and operations that must be measured, monitored, and managed in order to remain profitable in uncertain times.

Marty Kirshner, CPA, MSA, is the Partner leading the Energy Practice Group at Gray, Gray & Gray, LLP. He serves fuel oil and propane clients as a strategic advisor and consultant on all aspects of financial and business operations. Marty also currently serves as Treasurer of the National Energy & Fuels Institute (NEFI).

Steve Abbate is Managing Director at Cetane Associates. With more than 34 years of experience in the downstream energy industry, Steve has been involved in the acquisition of over 250 retail energy marketers. Steve’s company, Cetane Associates, is one of the leading M&A advisors in the delivered fuels industry. In addition to advising on acquisitions, the company performs valuations and strategic planning for clients.

A remarkable customer experience is critical to the sustained growth of any business, and the heating industry is no different. As the marketing landscape becomes more congested, standing apart from your competition is critical. Join us to learn what your customer is looking for as they interact with you, and how creating an immediate and on-going positive experience will help you close more accounts, retain customers and promote customer loyalty.

Esther Angell is currently a Vice President at Cargas Systems. She's originally from Oklahoma but crossed the Red River spending over 10 years in the oil and gas industry in Houston. During that time, she worked in for both service and manufacturing companies in a variety of leadership roles. While in Houston Esther served on the Board of Directors for the Women's Energy Network and supported various mentoring and volunteer programs. She relocated to Lancaster, Pennsylvania continuing her work in manufacturing, but for non-energy industries. She currently leads a team in the technology space, leveraging her background in marketing, sales, product management, and business development. This broad experience enables Esther to find connections and commonalities across business and industry. It's also one of the reasons she's an active, member, mentor and speaker at Women in Energy, The Technology Council of Central PA, and Leadership Lancaster.

Steph Schreyer came to Cargas in 2005 with more than 14 years of experience overseeing a Project Management team that handled 300 active clients. She has a passion for people and solving problems, which has served her well at Cargas in her roles as HR Solutions Consultant, Sales Consultant, and Customer Support Manager. Now, as Director of Customer Experience, Steph gets to focus on her passion for our customers, overseeing a team dedicated to maintaining a consistently exceptional Cargas Energy experience for all customers throughout their relationship with our company. She facilitates cross team customer experience process improvements and most recently became chair of Cargas' DEI Impact Team. She loves her amazing teammates and believes Cargas truly lives up to its designation as a "Best Place to Work." Steph holds an undergraduate degree in Microbiology from Penn State University and an MBA from Lebanon Valley College.

Rich Carrione is vice president of operations at Warm Thoughts Communications, the nation’s leading marketing agency specializing in the residential energy industry. Most people know Rich through his work overseeing NORA-funded programs for state associations and more recently for executing the industry’s most successful anti-electrification efforts. A 19-year veteran of the delivered fuels industry, Rich has an extensive marketing and communications background that has brought significant success to individual companies as well. Rich is a regular contributor to Indoor Comfort Marketing and is a respected speaker at industry events and conferences. Rich serves on NEFI’s board of directors and is a member of its Renewable Liquid Heating Fuel Taskforce as well.

New York has passed legislation called the CLCPA, which is designed to wipe out fossil fuel use in the state beginning as early as 2026. The presentation will detail the legislation and what NYPGA is doing to fight it.

Matt Cota is the Executive Director of the Vermont Fuel Dealers Association. In addition to legislative advocacy and regulatory oversight, VFDA trains approximately 1,000 students every year in the heating, electrical, and plumbing trades. Prior to joining VFDA in 2007, Cota worked both as a journalist and school teacher in Santa Barbara, California. He holds a Master’s Degree in Public Policy from California State University Northridge and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Communication from The George Washington University. In 2021, Cota was elected to the South Burlington City Council.

Bill Overbaugh began in the industry, like many energy professionals, working at his father’s company. In 2002, Bill went full-time at Ehrhart Energy, a propane, fuel oil and wood pellet delivery company. In 2021, after having sold the business, Bill became executive director of the New York Propane Gas Association.

Leslie has worked in the propane and regulatory compliance industry for over 25 years, having served as director of risk management and corporate counsel for Dead River Company and bureau director for the Maine Department of Environmental Protection. Leslie is a graduate of the University of Texas and holds a master’s degree in environmental management from the University of Houston and a law degree from South Texas College of Law. Leslie is active with the National Propane Gas Association, and the Energy Marketer Associations in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

We will focus on you and your data so be prepared! How to use your data and better understand it to optimize your delivery operations.

Danny Silverman

The Inflation Reduction Act, (IRA) has become the center piece of many supply chain discussions now underway. This session focuses on low carbon liquid fuels and how domestic and foreign inputs will be required to satisfy the emerging demand throughout New England and Mid-Atlantic markets. As the industry continues to embrace increased blend levels to meet legislative drivers designed to decarbonize the region it will be essential to be proactive with these discussions. Paul Nazzaro, Supply Chain Liaison, Clean Fuels, will lead a discussion on what's been on many fuel dealers minds: "Will there be sufficient biodiesel to meet the new mandate requirements in several regions and the goals defined within the Providence Resolution introduced by NEFI in 2019?

With adequate preparation and a well thought out supply strategy blends of B5 will be manageable to meet initial demands of state mandates near term. According to the energy Information Administration (EIA), U.S. biodiesel production is >2.4 billion gallons in 2021. Total residential heating oil sold in New England and Mid-Atlantic markets averages 3.2 BGY making B5 blends a non-event. For those blending B20 on a ratable basis and with commitments to their customers to accelerate decarbonization of the supply chain a more strategic plan should be considered where communication between buyer an seller will be the difference in supply disruption and ratable and competitive supply. The IRA brings with it a straight renewal of the biodiesel blenders tax credit through 2024, but in 2025 that credit then transitions to the producer as well redirects their focus on carbon intensity of the feedstock selections, how will these changes impact you and your business? Additionally, the United States Department of Agriculture has announced that a second round of funds are now available for those interested in upgrading or establishing storage, blending and distribution centers for renewable fuels like biodiesel. Our program will elevate awareness while empowering the supply chain to make decisions and to ensure a seamless distribution system leading to oil heats renaissance.

Over the past 28 years, Paul Nazzaro has helped secure biodiesel’s place as one of the fastest-growing alternative fuels in the nation. He has written and presented extensively on all facets of biodiesel production, handling, blending, marketing, operability, and policy. As petroleum liaison for the Clean Fuels Alliance America, he was a key figure in the conceptualization of Bioheat® fuel. Paul’s vanguard leadership proved critical in the formidable task of gaining acceptance of biodiesel by the heating oil industry. In addition to overseeing the Clean Fuels’ Bioheat® consumer website, Paul has developed countless guides for every level of the supply chain, including the Bioheat® Playbook, Biodiesel Success Stories, and a biodiesel fuel blending video that demonstrates proper blending technique at the terminal level. He has also developed and brought to market two branded soy-based additive packages.

Jason Lawrence, Senior Business Development Executive, Chevron Renewable Energy Group

Tim Keaveney Executive Vice President Business Development, Hero BX

Kevin Grant, Sprague Energy

How are companies growing gallons in this environment? This panel discussion will share ideas for companies to build business and protect profit margins in an uncertain world.

Elaine Levin is President of Powerhouse. She has over 30 years of experience working worth with energy producers, refiners, marketers, and consumers executing hedging strategies. Prior to joining Powerhouse, Elaine was Vice President, Futures Specialist at Morgan Stanley. She has taught the principles of price risk management to hundreds of senior energy industry executives and was the principal instructor for the highly regarded OPIS Fuel Hedging University for over 14 years. Now the instructor of Powerhouse’s Practical Hedging Course, Elaine has addressed many energy associations on risk management, including SIGMA, NEFI and NACS. Elaine is Past President of the National Capital Area Chapter of the U.S. Association for Energy Economics. She graduated summa cum laude from Marymount University in Virginia with a Bachelor in Business Administration with a concentration in finance.

Rich Larkin is a 24 year veteran of the heating oil, gasoline, propane and natural gas industry. He founded Hedge Solutions in 1993 to offer clients independent and trustworthy purchasing and hedging advice. He knows all the challenging buying and selling details of the energy industry with early roots extending to Wyatt Energy. He is responsible for overseeing Hedge Solutions' management and business objectives, while focusing on his own book of clients' hedging and purchasing strategies.

Jeffrey Simpson is Managing Director of Angus Finance and has over two decades of fuel industry experience in the financial, banking and risk management arenas. His team specializes in profit maximization, budgeting, financial planning, banking relations, capital location and acquisition structuring for fuel distribution companies throughout the country.

The passage of the Inflation Reduction Act has changed our industry. There are tax credits and rebates for biofuels and oil-fired equipment, as well as strong incentives for electric heat pumps and other alternative energy technologies. It is up to you to alleviate any confusion your customers might have, and we’ll give you the tools to successfully promote Bioheat® fuel and equipment upgrades in a post-IRA world.

David Heiser is the Regional Sales and Marketing Coordinator for PriMedia, Inc. He has represented PriMedia for over 20 years: Working with marketers of all sizes across the home comfort industry as well as local, state and national associations. Consulting on all facets of their marketing programs, as well as providing sales, customer service and other industry training. In addition to his other responsibilities, David is also head of advertising services for Oil & Energy Magazine.

During this presentation we will review how customer buying behavior has changed in the past couple of years and why this will impact Fuel Marketers. Learn news ways to engage customers through technology to help with account receivables and setting policies to reduce chargebacks, help win disputes and eliminate friendly fraud.

Jon Gilbert is an accomplished payment professional with 10+ years of history in recurring and utility payments. As the Director of Partner Development at Qualpay he oversees business development and sales efforts while working closely with partners to educate merchants on effective cash flow management practices. Jon has successfully launched multiple channel programs, managing all aspects of the process: from the creation of the business development strategy to the implementation of the marketing promotion initiatives. Prior to joining Qualpay in 2017 Jon served as the Vice President of Domestic & International eCommerce at Evo Payments INTL.

Marci Gagnon is the Vice President of Strategic Alliances for Qualpay and has been in the payments industry for over 15 years with a concentration on recurring billing and the Energy space. Qualpay provides processing solutions to fuel delivery and service businesses with tools designed to provide real-time reconciliation and cost reduction. For additional information contact Marci Gagnon at marci@qualpay.com or visit https://www.qualpay.com/industry/utility-and-energy.

There is a very strong movement across the Northeast to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through heat pump conversions. This session will present alternative approaches toward reducing GHG emissions using biofuels in existing oil-fired heating systems. The biofuels approach has the potential to reduce GHG at much lower cost and much sooner. A new concept for a zero-GHG home based on integrating solar PV and B100, and plans for demonstrations, will be presented.

Dr. Thomas A. Butcher is Technical Director of the National Oilheat Research Alliance where he leads a group providing the technical suppot needed to develop a more efficient, renewable future for this industry. Tom has a long history of research work on energy systems, air pollutant emissions, and the use of biofuels in boilers and furnaces.

Michael Devine was appointed President of the National Oilheat Research Alliance effective March 1, 2022. Devine came to NORA after having served as Vice President of Sales & Business Development for World Energy. As part of the Senior Management Team, he managed day to day activities for sales and volumes at terminals, prepared monthly and annual budgets, and developed key national accounts including FedEx, UPS, Chevron, Ryder, The Union Pacific Railroad and others.Devine has deep roots in the oilheat industry. He began his career in his family’s business, Devine Brothers of Norwalk, CT. He started as a truck driver and service technician, growing into roles as sales manager, vice president and president of the 50+ employee, third-generation business. He is a member of the NORA board and has been a positive and active voice in supporting the oilheat and liquid heating fuels industry for decades.

This session will include a report on all NORA Research & Development activities in the areas of biofuels and efficiency. This includes biodiesel field testing, development, and qualification of components for high biodiesel blends, filtration and fuel tanks, fuel-fired heat pumps, and progress on EL fuel.

Dr. Thomas A. Butcher is Technical Director of the National Oilheat Research Alliance where he leads a group providing the technical suppot needed to develop a more efficient, renewable future for this industry. Tom has a long history of research work on energy systems, air pollutant emissions, and the use of biofuels in boilers and furnaces.

Michael Devine was appointed President of the National Oilheat Research Alliance effective March 1, 2022. Devine came to NORA after having served as Vice President of Sales & Business Development for World Energy. As part of the Senior Management Team, he managed day to day activities for sales and volumes at terminals, prepared monthly and annual budgets, and developed key national accounts including FedEx, UPS, Chevron, Ryder, The Union Pacific Railroad and others.Devine has deep roots in the oilheat industry. He began his career in his family’s business, Devine Brothers of Norwalk, CT. He started as a truck driver and service technician, growing into roles as sales manager, vice president and president of the 50+ employee, third-generation business. He is a member of the NORA board and has been a positive and active voice in supporting the oilheat and liquid heating fuels industry for decades.

As the industry moves into a low carbon future, higher and higher blends of biodiesel will become common. While very similar to heating oil, there are some differences that the technician needs to be aware of and adapt to. This presentation will encompass all that a technician needs to service and install renewable liquid fuel appliances.

Robert (Bob) O’Brien has extensive background in oilheat and HVAC installations and service, O’Brien is responsible for NORA’s education and training initiatives, including NORA’s Bronze, Silver and Gold technician certifications and continuing education. O’Brien’s impressive resume includes in-field experience as an oilheat technician and service manager, owner and principal of Technical Heating LLC, Mt. Sinai, NY, instructor for Oilheat Comfort Corp. and Research & Technical Consultant for NORA. Additionally, O’Brien is currently on the NFPA31 and BPI Technical Standards committees and serves as an officer with the National Association of Oil & Energy Service Professionals.

The Energy Industry is evolving and will continue to change. One thing though that won’t change will be the need for flexible, talented, and skilled employees. This discussion will focus on ways to attract, retain and diversify your workforce.

Jacqueline Hart is the Vice President of Operations at Hart Home Comfort located in Oakdale, NY. She holds a MS in School Counseling from LIU-CW Post. Although she worked as a school counselor for three years, her passion has always been the company her parents started. She began working in the business during high school as a customer service representative. Eventually, after learning to interact with customers, post transactions, route trucks, and the ins and outs of the company and the industry for many years, she took on the role of General Manager. As the company grew through several acquisitions and expanded to include an oil terminal and transportation business, Jacqueline became the Vice President of Operations, overseeing all aspects of their retail heating oil/hvac company. Jacqueline sits on the board of NYSEC as well as the advertising committee for the American Energy Coalition. In her free time Jacqueline likes to spend time traveling or home with her two min-dachshunds.

Jacqueline Aceituno is the Operations/Production Manager for Taco Comfort Solutions

Jacqueline is one of our 2022 Rising Star Award Winners.

She has extensive experience in supply chain management for high mix low volume manufacturing production, project management, managing Lean and Continuous Improvement initiatives. She has proven leadership in environments with rapid change and continuous improvement.

She has been with Taco Comfort Solutions since 2016 serving in various roles throughout the company.

She graduated from Rhode Island College with a Master of Science- MS Operations and Project Management - 2019 and a Bachelor of Science – BS Operations Management in 2013.

Alexandra Coleman serves as the Head of North America for Centrica Business Solutions. Coleman started her career as an engineer in construction, before moving into the renewable energy sector. From servicing wind turbines in Nebraska to financing over $1 billion in renewable energy projects, Coleman has been driving the energy grid of the future. Her desire to work more closely with energy customers brought her to Centrica Business Solutions.

Centrica Business Solutions is a sustainable energy solutions company, offering integrated energy solutions that balance profitability and sustainability. By bringing together the right combination of technologies and approaches, Centrica Business Solutions help organizations get the most from their energy and drive the most value from their energy infrastructure – helping them to solve their energy challenges and helping customers to move toward Net Zero in meaningful ways every day.

Often when you need service at your home, you think “I wish that I knew some basic things about . . ..” Heather will provide us with some tips and even some hands-on help that will give us the confidence to try something prior to calling for service. Whether it’s a nuisance plugged drain, a drippy faucet, or a toilet that just keeps running, we will explore first level repair responses.

Heather Wallek

Discover how Propane.com the PERC website has numerous free resources for technicians, many recently updated. From the latest training available to the most up-to-date code and regulatory resources, make sure you are taking advantage of all the benefits being a propane technician enables you to access. From tank requalification, to leak checks, to cathodic protection, to CETP training modules, there are many free resources at your disposal.

Leslie Anderson

This presentation is designed to help commission an oil supply system that will ensure consistent burner operation and safety, optimize combustion efficiency, and reduce liability potential.

Jim Todd has been in the HVAC industry for over 35 years. He holds a Connecticut S1, Unlimited Heating and Cooling Contractors license, and various HVAC certifications, He is also a national member of OESP and a published vocational author. Presently he is a Technical Sales and Support Leader at Beckett working directly with numerous customers, wholesalers, sales, factory engineers, and OEM personnel performing technical support and training.

This presentation will focus on what can we expect and what must you know as it relates to Carlin residential burners’ updated design and future burner technology that will meet the demands of the industry today and into the future.

John has worked in the HVAC Industry for over 25 years, starting out as a local technician performing service calls & installations, then working his way up to service manager, overseeing 15+ technicians and 20,000+ oil and propane customers. Today, he acts as our Southern New England Territory manager responsible for the service, support and sale of both brands while hosting hands on training all across New England.

This seminar will provide helpful information on what to look for when inspecting aboveground oil tanks during annual tune-ups. It will also provide information on maintaining fuel oil tanks and educating your customers on oil tank maintenance.

Eric Missigman

Justine Missigman

An introduction to the new DSS7 Kosan regulator by Cavagna. Please join us as we show you the safest regulator in the world. We will also be discussing the new Prodigi Smart meter from Cavagna. Save time thus labor by remote reading all of your gas meters from the safety of your home or office.

Adam Scheuritzel

This class will cover some of the common issues with regards to power venting and combustion air. We will go over wiring details as well as proper setup of the units.

Rick is a 49-year veteran of the heating industry. He worked for Connecticut’s largest retail fuel oil company in Hartford, CT, serving 11 years as Service Manager. He then transitioned into the manufacturer’s rep business, working for the past 18 years for JAD Associates, covering the New England states. The lines he represents include Field Controls, Allanson Ignitors, Midwest Snips, FPPF Fuel Additives and Enerco / Mr. Heater.

Rick is a certified NATE and NORA instructor for several different disciplines in the HVAC field, specializing in indoor air Quality and venting.

In addition to his responsibilities at JAD Associates, Rick is an active member of several OESP groups and serves as Secretary for the Connecticut Valley, New Haven and New England Tri-State chapters. He is a co-founder of the NETS chapter and served as President of the Connecticut Valley Chapter. In 2013 he was awarded OESP’s Lou Ehrich Memorial Associate of the Year Award and in 2021 he received the OESP Board of Directors’ Outstanding Achievement Award

Rick also serves as a member of the School Advisory Board at Entech Advanced Energy Training in Cromwell and was a member of the Craft Committee at Bristol Technical Vocational School.

This presentation will introduce Beckett’s new advanced burner controls, which will benefit our industry through simple programming and diagnostics. It will also cover how to troubleshoot burner operation using detailed burner fault history to identify both the issue and remedy.

Jeff Rozga is the Technical Trainer for R.W. Beckett in Northeast Ohio. Jeff has been with the company for over 42 years. He provides training to contractors, instructors, and distributor personnel. Jeff’s areas of responsibility have included manufacturing, product development, field applications and troubleshooting burner systems. He has taught over 800 classes in the U.S. and Canada on oil and gas fired heating systems along with electronic controls. Jeff currently serves on the Education Committee for OESP. Prior to that, Jeff also served on the NATE Technical Committee for over 10 years.

This presentation will focus on the newest developments in our fill line of controls, to help the technician quickly and accurately complete the job.

Mike has been the head of Carlin/ Hydrolevel Technical Support for 5 years, with responsibilities including fielding service calls from all over the country, completing a wide range of burner testing, and heading the Carlin U training program at our world headquarters. Before joining us, Mike worked as a Service Technician for 35 years in the heart of New England, giving him an honest perspective on the challenges, and solutions, for today's technicians.

Danielle LoRusso

This presentation will cover why testing is important to you and your customer, basic theories of combustion, hazards of carbon monoxide, making good measurements, and instrumentation care, maintenance, calibration and service.

Rick is employed as a Manufacturers Sales Representative for EDOS Manufacturers’ Reps in Granby, MA. Training is a huge part of what Rick does for EDOS and the manufacturers he represents, and he has also done many generic training sessions on products related to the new technology the industry is increasingly adopting. He also developed approved NORA technical training programs, so Continuing Education Units may be offered to technicians attending his classes. Rick is a member of the Board of Directors for ACANE and OESP and also serves on the Education Committee.