Meet our new male Youth Council Co-Chair: Cole Smith, Suburban Propane
The Voice is delighted to speak with Cole Smith from Suburban Propane, as a newly appointed male Co-Chair to the WLGA Youth Council.
The Voice: Cole, congratulations on being elected incoming male Co-Chair of the WLGA Youth Council. How long have you been involved with the Youth Council, and what do you hope to bring to the role of Co-Chair?
Cole Smith: Thank you, I’m very excited about this opportunity. I joined the Youth Council in late 2023 and became Captain of the New Gen Communication Pillar in 2024. As Co-Chair, I’m eager to help the Youth Council bring greater value and different perspectives to the WLGA. I believe there are many opportunities for our team to contribute meaningfully to broader conversations.
TV: Tell us a little about your career journey so far. How long have you been with Suburban Propane, and what brought you to the propane industry?
CS: I have spent my entire career in sales, primarily within the commercial real estate and engineering industries before joining Suburban Propane. Several factors drew me to this industry, but what initially intrigued me was the level of teamwork required to serve our customers safely and effectively. Although my role is focused on sales and marketing, I always welcome opportunities to roll up my sleeves and contribute wherever needed. Being part of a culture that values teamwork is something I truly enjoy and have found here at Suburban Propane.
TV: Do you have a career highlight you would like to share?
CS: Several moments come to mind, but having the opportunity to represent Suburban Propane on the world stage at LPG Week last year in Cape Town is something I will never forget. In addition to the speaking and presentation opportunities, I felt incredibly fortunate to listen to and learn from peers across the globe.
TV: You were part of the Suburban Propane delegation to LPG Week in Cape Town last November. Was this your first LPG Week, and how was the experience for you?
CS: It was an incredible experience in a truly beautiful country. The sessions were diverse and informative, and events such as the Gala Dinner were spectacular. Those of us who attended from the Youth Council gained valuable insights and built strong camaraderie. I would highly recommend former LPG Week, now Liquid Gas Week to anyone with an interest in the industry.
TV: As an ambitious young professional in the propane industry, do you see any specific challenges for youth in the sector, and what advice would you offer to others starting their careers?
CS: One challenge we face is attracting more young professionals to our industry. There are so many career paths and opportunities for advancement and we need other young professionals to recognise that. My advice to anyone entering the industry is to listen and learn. There are many individuals with decades of experience who have guided this industry through challenges and helped it reach new heights. Take in their wisdom and use it to help lead us into the future.
At our most recent Youth Council meeting, we had the privilege of welcoming James Rockall, who emphasised the importance of offering fresh perspectives, challenging the status quo, and being disrupters in the industry. We must earn our seats at the table and once we’re there, ensure our voices are heard.
TV: Many thanks indeed for your time and congratulations again on this appointment.
