Ethanol industry awards were presented this week in Omaha at the 2023 International Fuel Ethanol Workshop and Trade Show.

Mick Henderson, General Manager of Commonwealth Agri-Energy and past chairman of the Renewable Fuels Association, received the FEW High Octane Award, which honors those whose passion and unstoppable pursuits have significantly benefited the ethanol industry. Henderson began his career in ethanol in the 1990s as a plant manager for ADM before taking the GM position at Commonwealth in 2003. He served as RFA board chairman in 2016 and 2017.

Former RFA staff member Kelly Davis of New Energy Blue was presented with the FEW Award of Excellence, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the fuel ethanol industry through their research, technical advisory and/or development activities. Davis has been involved in the technical and regulatory side of the ethanol industry since the 1980s and recently joined New Energy Blue after serving a decade as a director and vice president at RFA.

Davis was also honored as one of the women who have made significant contributions to the ethanol industry, whether it be through scientific research, business leadership, or advocacy efforts. In a special ceremony, Ethanol Producer Magazine recognized women within the ethanol industry, and Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor received the inaugural winner of the Women in Ethanol Award.