Written on: June 21, 2023
The Bill Hill Memorial Award is presented to an NPGA member who has made significant contributions to the propane industry in the area of public affairs at the national, state, or local level. The award honors the memory of the late William C. Hill, who from 1974 to 1979 chaired the National Committee on Propane Allocation and Price Regulations, and includes a grant to an educational institution of the recipient’s choice.
Deb Grooms, who recently retired as CEO & President of the Iowa Propane Gas Association, was presented with the Bill Hill Award for 2023. She was nominated by 
Steve Ahrens, President & CEO of the Missouri Propane Gas Association. Grooms began her leadership role at the IPGA in 1995 and according to Terry Davis, owner of Country Propane, Heating & Cooling in Milo, IA, she was busy leading and improving the association from the beginning. “When Deb started, we had a lot of part-time farmers delivering propane throughout the state and we lacked a lot of formal education,” Davis said. “Deb’s leadership brought about the hiring of our first Safety Director and a new training facility in Pleasant Hill.”
Davis, who presented Grooms with the Bill Hill Award at the Washington DC NPGA Board Meeting, said that Grooms took on many challenges during her years with IPGA. “Hours of Service and supply challenges were areas of strong focus during her years with the association,” Davis said. “Leaders at the Department of Transportation, Department of Agriculture, the Governor’s Office, and many other key government entities knew her well and had deep respect for her. She was also known and respected by leaders throughout the propane industry nationally.” He said that Grooms’ efforts during major supply challenges resulted in a major task force appointed by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds focused on supply issues. “Iowa has played a leading role among midwestern states for many years now evaluating supply and distribution concerns to make sure all marketers are as prepared as possible for crop drying and winter.”
“So honored to receive the Bill Hill Memorial Award at the NPGA Board of Directors Meeting today! I loved my job and the wonderful people I met along the way! I will miss you!” Grooms posted along with pictures in a June 5 message on Facebook.
