How did you, Jessica Balderston, get your start in the propane industry?

Jessica Balderston: I was fortunate to have my start in the propane industry come naturally through family. My grandfather founded a propane and natural gas company in Bird Island, Minnesota, back in 1952, so the business has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. In 1979, my father and uncle launched Rural Computer Consultants Inc. (RCC) with a very specific goal — developing routing and scheduling software to support my grandfather’s propane operation. What began as a solution for one company has grown tremendously over the years. Today, I’m proud to be a second-generation owner of RCC alongside my brother and two cousins.

What major shifts over the years have had the biggest impact on the industry, and what positive changes have you seen come from them?

One of the biggest shifts in our industry has been the rapid advancement of technology. We’ve moved from manual processes and paper-driven tools to real-time data, smarter routing and AI-driven technology. These tools are helping propane marketers operate more efficiently, improve customer service and make better, safer decisions every day. What’s been most positive is how adaptable this industry continues to be. Technology hasn’t replaced people — it’s empowered them. Our industry is constantly evolving, and that’s exciting because it means we’ll keep finding better, smarter ways to grow and serve our customers and communities.

Have there been any industry challenges you’ve encountered in your career that changed how you approach your role?

Working in customer service for propane and fuel marketers has shown me that this industry is constantly challenging everyone, and no two days are ever the same. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you can’t judge what the person on the other end of the line is dealing with. They might be facing unusual weather, a propane shortage in their area or something completely unrelated to the industry, and it can affect how they’re feeling or how urgent their issue seems. That experience has changed how I approach my role: I focus on giving people grace, listening carefully and helping them resolve their problem as efficiently and empathetically as possible. It’s about meeting them where they are and remembering that everyone’s challenges matter.

How has the Women in Propane community influenced your experience in the industry?

The Women in Propane community has meant so much to me because it introduced me to some of the most incredible people I know. I’ve built real friendships, found mentors and gained confidence in myself and my place in the industry. Early on, stepping outside my comfort zone wasn’t easy, but the encouragement and support I received from other women helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. In fact, if it weren’t for that encouragement, I likely never would have stepped into my role as cohost of Women in Propane’s podcast ‘Through the Leadership Lens.’ That experience has given me the opportunity to talk with inspiring people across our industry every week, hear their stories and continue learning from their journeys — something that has been incredibly meaningful to me both personally and professionally. What makes this community special is how genuinely women show up for each other. They share their experiences, offer guidance, celebrate wins — big or small — and remind you that you’re never figuring things out alone. Being part of Women in Propane has shaped my journey, strengthened my confidence and inspired me to keep learning, growing and supporting others the same way I was supported.

What advice would you give to women who are considering a career in the propane industry?

My advice would be simple: Be yourself, ask all the questions and show up. It may feel intimidating at first, especially if you don’t see a clear path yet, but that feeling doesn’t last long. Our industry is full of supportive, welcoming people who genuinely want to help you succeed. The more you lean in, stay curious and get involved, the more opportunities will begin to appear. There’s a place for you here — you just have to take that first step.

Who has been the strongest influence in your career to date?

Freddie Ridler has easily been the biggest influence in my career so far. If you know Freddie, you get it. When I first started at RCC, my office was right next to his, and he quickly took me under his wing. He taught me a ton about routing and forecasting and really helped me understand the nuts and bolts of what we do. But his impact went way beyond the technical side. Freddie has always encouraged me to get more involved in the industry, step outside my introvert comfort zone, and take advantage of everything our industry has to offer. Because of his encouragement, I became more active in groups like Women in Propane. He didn’t just help me learn the business — he helped me grow my confidence and become more involved in a career and industry I truly care about.

What advice would you give someone just coming into the industry?

My advice would be to dive in headfirst. The propane industry is full of genuinely good people who want to see each other succeed, so talk to as many folks as you can, ask questions and get involved wherever opportunities show up. Don’t be afraid to raise your hand. If jumping in headfirst feels overwhelming, start by finding a mentor. Having someone in your corner can make all the difference. And if you don’t know where to begin, there are great programs out there, like Women in Propane’s Knowledge Exchange, that will connect you with experienced professionals who truly want to help you grow. This industry has given me incredible opportunities, friendships and a chance to be part of something bigger than myself — and it can do the same for anyone willing to show up.

What do you think would surprise someone about the job you do?

If you ask anyone in our tiny town of Bird Island, Minnesota, (population 989), they’ll tell you we do something with computers … maybe magic, maybe selling them, maybe hacking into the government — nobody’s really sure. The truth is a lot less mysterious and a lot more human. Most people would be surprised to know that while we do spend our days helping with software, we also end up being someone’s makeshift therapist, marketing extraordinaire, sounding board or even an occasional accountant. Our job is as much about supporting people as it is about supporting technology, and that’s what keeps every day interesting.

What motivates you to keep growing in your career?

What motivates me most is the people and their stories. Our industry is incredibly good at storytelling and lifting each other up. You hear about the journeys, challenges and successes of others, and it makes you think, “That’s going to be me someday.” It creates a sense of purpose and reminds you what’s possible if you keep learning and showing up. The other big motivator for me is helping others. Whether it’s supporting our employees, our customers, friends in the industry or the vendors we work with, seeing someone succeed — especially when you played a small part in it — is incredibly rewarding. That feeling of helping others grow is what continues to push me forward in my career.

If you had an unexpected day off, how would you spend it?

Oofta! (That Minnesota in me tends to sneak out.) If I had an unexpected day off all to myself, my perfect plan would be simple — get outside and soak up some nature. I’d go for a long walk, find a quiet, peaceful spot and settle in with a good book. No schedule, no noise, just a chance to recharge and breathe a little. Ideally with no bugs (Minnesota mosquitos are the worst) around me to ruin it.