Minneapolis, MN – (June 11, 2024) – Jeanne McCaherty, CEO of Guardian Energy Management, LLC, was recognized as the winner of the Women in Ethanol Award (WIE) on the morning of Tuesday, June 11 at the International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo (FEW), the world’s largest ethanol conference, taking place this week in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was presented this award to recognize her growth, collaboration, and vision for the biofuels industry at the International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo (FEW).
McCaherty was awarded this honor during the second annual award ceremony. Ethanol Producer Magazine recognized women within the ethanol industry and highlighted the crucial role women play in the growth and success of the ethanol industry. The award ceremony celebrated all women who have made significant contributions to the industry, whether it be through scientific research, business leadership, or advocacy efforts.
McCaherty has been a demonstrated leader within the ethanol industry by successfully managing the operations of three leading ethanol plants across three states. Along with being the CEO of Guardian Energy Management, LLC, she became a Chairperson for Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) in 2020 and is the first woman to hold this position in any ethanol trade group. McCaherty holds esteemed positions on the board of directors for Renewable Products Marketing Group (RPMG), Minnesota Biofuels Association, and is a member of Minnesota Governor’s Biofuels Council. Beyond her professional duties, Jeanne's leadership serves as a beacon for aspiring women in the industry.
“We are honored to name Jeanne as the 2024 recipient of the Women in Ethanol Award,” said Anna Simet, editor at BBI International. “This year, we received an outstanding 20 nominations, and it was a privilege to learn about the accomplishments of all these women. Jeanne is a perfect example of the kind of ethanol industry trailblazers we aim to recognize and celebrate with this special award.”
McCaherty’s nominator described her leadership and being an inspiration for women within the ethanol industry. “In a landmark achievement, Jeanne ascended to the role of the first female chairperson in the RFA's storied history in 2020, marking a significant milestone not only within the organization but also in any national ethanol trade association. Additionally, she has lent her expertise to the Minnesota Governor’s Biofuels Council.” Her nominator continued, “Her visionary leadership was instrumental in initiating networking events for women at the National Ethanol Conference (NEC) during her tenure as Chairperson of RFA. Jeanne embodies the qualities of a trailblazer and an inspiration to all women in the ethanol sector.”
The 40th annual FEW began on Monday, June 10 and will run through Wednesday, June 12 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. As the FEW continues to grow, the event has over 600 biofuels producers, 2,400 professionals registered, and over 350 companies displayed on the expo hall floor.
