In recognition of Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month is a time to recognize the contributions, leadership, and progress of women across industries—including energy. While the propane industry has traditionally been male-dominated, women have played important roles in its evolution, from early foundations in gas heating to modern advancements in technology, safety, and innovation.
Early Foundations in Gas Heating
One of the most significant early contributors to gas-powered energy systems was Alice H. Parker, an African American inventor who received a U.S. patent in 1919 for a gas-powered central heating system, a design that helped influence how homes were heated and distributed warm air through ductwork. Although her specific design was for natural gas and was never commercially produced, it was notable for using multiple independently controlled burners and introducing the idea of zoned, ducted heat—an early precursor to modern central heating systems. Her work showed that gas could be used efficiently and reliably for whole-home comfort, paving the way for technologies that later influenced forced-air systems and thermostatic control in HVAC.
Alice H. Parker’s patent
Parker’s achievement is particularly remarkable given that she earned her patent at a time when women, and especially women of color, faced significant barriers in education, engineering, and patent recognition. In recognition of her legacy, the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce established the Alice H. Parker Women Leaders in Innovation Award to honor women innovators in her home state.
The Shift From Individual Inventions to Industry Innovation
As the propane industry evolved, innovation became less about individual inventors and more about collaborative progress. Today’s advancements, such as high-efficiency appliances, renewable propane, and propane-powered cooling systems, are developed through coordinated research, testing, manufacturing, and industry-led programs.
Propane cooling is one example of this modern evolution. These systems use propane-powered absorption or engine-driven technology to provide cooling in commercial buildings, agriculture, cold storage, and off-grid environments. Benefits include reduced electrical demand, improved efficiency during peak usage times, and greater energy resilience.
Rather than being attributed to a single inventor, technologies like propane cooling are advanced by teams of engineers, safety specialists, researchers, program managers, and industry leaders—many of whom are women.
Women Driving Progress Behind the Scenes
Women’s contributions to the propane industry today extend well beyond engineering and technology. Across the industry, women serve as:
- Safety and compliance leaders
- Accountants and auditors ensuring financial integrity
- Customer service professionals and educators
- Operations managers and logistics coordinators
- Marketing, communications, and outreach specialists
- Executives and decision-makers shaping long-term strategy
These roles are essential to keeping propane systems safe, reliable, compliant, and responsive to customer needs, especially as the industry adapts to new technologies and market demands.
Supporting Growth Through Professional Advancement
Organizations like the Women in Propane Council (WIP) play an important role in supporting women across all areas of the industry. WIP focuses on leadership development, mentorship, education, and professional advancement, helping women build skills and confidence as they take on expanding roles in propane-related fields.
By supporting career growth and collaboration, organizations like WIP help ensure that women are part of the conversation as the industry explores emerging opportunities such as propane cooling, renewable propane, and alternative energy solutions.
A Legacy of Women at Delta Liquid Energy
Women’s leadership is not only visible across the broader propane industry — it is woven into the very history of Delta Liquid Energy.
Delta Liquid Energy began as San Luis Butane in 1936, founded by Iva Platz and her husband Harry. At a time when the energy industry was overwhelmingly male-dominated, Iva’s leadership helped establish the company’s foundation in service, reliability, and community commitment. Her vision and determination laid the groundwork for what would become a multi-branch propane company serving communities across California and Nevada.
That legacy has continued through generations of women in the Platz family, including Vice President of Administration Cindy (Platz) Belmont, Accounting Administrator Tricia Cardenaz, and Director of Sales and Marketing Allison Platz-Velazquez. Together, they represent a multi-generational commitment to propane service, operational excellence, financial stewardship, and community relationships that remains central to Delta’s identity today.
The presence of women in leadership at Delta Liquid Energy is not a recent development — it has been part of the company’s story since the beginning.
A Modern Example: Women Leading the Industry Today
Among that next generation of leadership is Allison Platz-Velazquez, who serves as Director of Sales and Marketing and represents the company in a highly visible, forward-facing role.
As a member of the fourth generation of Platzes to take on Delta Liquid Energy’s legacy, Allison quite literally grew up in the propane. From an early age, she gained firsthand exposure to how propane supports homes, businesses, and communities — an experience that continues to shape her leadership today. In her role, she focuses on customer education, strategic growth, and modernizing how propane services are communicated and delivered.
Allison is also an active member of the Western Propane Gas Association (WPGA), reflecting her commitment to ongoing learning, collaboration, and industry advancement. Her career highlights how women are helping guide the propane industry forward through leadership, communication, and connection — ensuring it remains strong for generations to come.
Looking Ahead
Women’s History Month is not just about looking back—it’s about recognizing ongoing contributions and future potential. From early pioneers like Alice H. Parker to the women working today behind the scenes and on the front lines, women continue to help shape the propane industry in meaningful ways.
As propane evolves to meet changing energy needs, the involvement of diverse voices and perspectives strengthens innovation, safety, and service across the industry.
Learn more about Iva Platz and the history of Delta Liquid Energy
Sources: