Propane Personality: Colin Sueyres

Colin Sueyres

President and CEO, Western Propane Gas Association

EDUCATION

University of California, Berkeley
Bachelor of Arts, Political Science
Class of 2004

WORK EXPERIENCE

Western Propane Gas Association
July 2022-Present
⦁ President and CEO

Feb. 2005-July 2022
Sueyres worked for the federal and state governments;
he became involved with energy, natural resources and water policy as well.

Transitioning to propane

For nearly 20 years, Sueyres had various state and federal government roles while acquiring extensive experience in energy, natural resources and water policy. From 2013 to 2017, he owned a consulting business too, leading to an undeniable passion for natural resources, as some of his clients and former employers were involved with energy or water in some capacity. This passion has only increased since he joined the propane industry and began serving the Western Propane Gas Association as president and CEO in 2022. “Other than being a propane user, I had no experience with the propane industry. But, thanks to the Western Propane Gas Association, I’ve finally found an industry I love.”

A focus on family and the greater community

When Sueyres isn’t defending the propane industry, working for his fellow Californians or preparing for the next event, he often can be found spending time with his family in Sacramento. In addition, he serves on the board of the Sacramento Children’s Home while also volunteering in several other ways. “I’m passionate about helping other people in any way I can, period – both within and outside of the propane industry.”

A passion for propane

Sueyres’ passion for propane is particularly due to his ability to focus on two primary goals. “This is the first time I was actually able to come into an industry and feel like I’m getting paid to do something I love: defending consumers and ensuring they have the right to choose whichever energy source they prefer to use.” Prior to joining the propane industry, Sueyres felt like he was “fighting” for his clients with “one hand tied behind his back.” Or it seemed like he had to “capitulate to a third party.” However, that is no longer the case.

“I’ve had a lot of friends that have worked in the propane industry, so I was always curious about it. I’ve always cared deeply about energy policy, too. Simply put, I want to keep energy affordable, accessible, available and reliable. And now I have an opportunity to do exactly that in the propane industry, as my passion for it continues to increase every day.”

Working for fellow Californians

A sixth-generation Californian, Sueyres is focused on helping his fellow residents reduce their cost of living. “If someone like me is here fighting for propane – helping out where I can, when I can and in any way I can – then my friends, family members, neighbors and colleagues may not be forced to move, due to living expenses.” Although he admits his goals are “uphill climbs,” he is determined to do whatever he can to achieve them. “I’m not giving up. This is my home. I want to stay here, and I want as many people to stay here and afford to live here as humanly possible.”

Defending the propane industry

For the first time in his career, Sueyres “wakes up every day excited,” a direct result of his passion for the propane industry and his admiration for those who work in it. “I get to wake up and ask myself, ‘What can I do today to defend this industry and help my fellow propane professionals?’ I’m able to do something I love while working alongside people I want to help, as I really, really respect and appreciate them.”

2024 Western Propane Trade Show

Sueyres has been involved firsthand with preparations for the 74th annual Western Propane Trade Show & Convention, set for May 13-17 in Reno, Nevada. “Our special guest speaker will be Stavros Anthony, Nevada’s lieutenant governor, while Kelly Senecal, co-founder and owner of Convergent Science, will be our keynote speaker. I can’t wait for the propane industry to enjoy every aspect of this show.”

Photos courtesy of Colin Sueyres