The National Biodiesel Board’s annual Eye on Biodiesel awards recognize a diverse group of individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to biodiesel. From longtime champions to present-day breakthroughs, the commercial biodiesel industry wouldn’t be where it is today without these individuals and organizations.

“These leaders are integral to the growth and development of the biodiesel industry,” said NBB CEO Donnell Rehagen, “and we would not have seen the strength in our sector this year without their extensive dedication.”

Cory-Ann Wind, Oregon Clean Fuels Program Manager, and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality—Climate Leader Award
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality administers the state’s Clean Fuels Program, which is led by CFP Manager Cory-Ann Wind. The CFP requires gradually increasing carbon intensity reductions for transportation fuels, culminating in a 10 percent reduction by 2025. Following only the second year of program implementation, biodiesel use in Oregon grew to 51 million gallons.

NTEA – The Association for the Work Truck Industry—Industry Partnership Award
NTEA represents more than 2,050 companies that manufacture, distribute, install, sell and repair commercial trucks. It also provides in-depth technical information, education, and member programs and services. NBB’s partnership with NTEA has been instrumental in getting biodiesel information to the critical audience in the work truck industry.

Casey’s General Stores—Impact Award
In the past year, Casey’s General Stores has become a leading player in the biodiesel industry, keeping biodiesel in high consumer demand. Casey’s has now converted more than 590 stores to biodiesel and plans to expand the use of biodiesel products to another 300 locations. With this prominence across the country, the biodiesel industry has an opportunity to make strides in public awareness and usage of America’s advanced biofuel.

Ron Kotrba, Editor of Biodiesel Magazine—Influence Award
Ron Kotrba has been writing for Biodiesel Magazine for more than 14 years and has served as editor for a decade, going above and beyond to create awareness and provide an important platform for the voices within the industry. His depth of knowledge on the issues affecting the industry has led to strong, consistent reporting of the complex issues faced over the years. Biodiesel Magazine continues to be a critical platform for sharing biodiesel success stories that are key to building support for industry growth.

Stephen Kaffka, Extension Agronomist, Department of Plant Sciences, University of California, Davis—Inspiration Award
Stephen Kaffka has been a key advisor during implementation of the California Low Carbon Fuel Standard. His expertise on agricultural production bridged the gap between the good things that farmers can do, and the environmental metrics desired by the Air Resources Board and its stakeholders, who place environmental protection as a top priority. As a result, biodiesel producers are participating in an expanding California market while the carbon reduction goals are being exceeded.