Request for Qualifications and Expressions of Interest
Training and Industry Relations Services
Minnesota Propane Association
The Minnesota Propane Association (MPA) is seeking qualifications and expressions of interest from individuals and organizations interested in providing training, technical support, industry representation, and related services to Minnesota's propane industry.
MPA is evaluating the future structure of its training and industry relations program following the announced departure of its current provider. As part of this process, the Association is seeking qualified individuals and organizations who can help advance propane education, safety, regulatory compliance, and member engagement throughout Minnesota.
The Association has not predetermined the final structure of this opportunity and welcomes innovative ideas and proposals from qualified respondents.
Opportunity Overview
The selected individual or organization will serve as an important resource to MPA and its members by providing professional training, technical expertise, and industry leadership.
The successful respondent will play a key role in Minnesota's transition from the Certified Employee Training Program (CETP) to the Propane Education Program (PEP) while helping maintain excellence in industry education and member services.
MPA is intentionally maintaining flexibility regarding the final scope of services and encourages respondents to share their ideas regarding the most effective approach to delivering these services.
Scope of Services
Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
Training and Education
- Deliver Propane Education Program (PEP), Certified Employee Training Program (CETP), and Minnesota Propane Association-developed training programs.
- Deliver refresher, continuing education, and specialty training programs.
- Perform On-the-Job (OJT) evaluations and skills assessments when applicable.
- Maintain instructor qualifications and remain current with industry training requirements.
- Assist with the development, revision, and implementation of future training programs as industry needs evolve.
Technical Support
- Serve as a technical resource for MPA members regarding propane operations, safety, training, regulatory compliance, and industry best practices.
- Provide guidance regarding DOT regulations, NFPA 54, NFPA 58, and other applicable industry codes and standards.
- Monitor industry developments and communicate important information to members.
Industry Relations
- Represent MPA at industry meetings, trade shows, educational events, and public outreach activities.
- Promote propane safety and the benefits of propane throughout Minnesota.
- Assist with workforce development, member engagement, and public education initiatives.
- Foster positive relationships with members, regulators, educators, and industry partners.
Qualifications
The ideal respondent will possess many of the following qualifications:
- Strong presentation, public speaking, and instructional abilities.
- Experience delivering technical or adult education programs.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Knowledge of propane operations, DOT regulations, NFPA 54, NFPA 58, and other applicable industry codes and standards.
- Experience with PEP, CETP, safety training, technical education, compliance programs, or related industries.
- Ability to travel throughout Minnesota as necessary.
Equivalent experience in related technical industries will be considered.
Organizational Structure
MPA has not determined the final structure for providing these services.
The Association is interested in receiving responses from:
- Independent contractors
- Individuals interested in employment
- Consulting firms
- Organizations capable of providing all or portions of the requested services
Respondents are encouraged to identify the arrangement they believe would best serve the Association and explain why.
Innovative Approaches Encouraged
MPA encourages respondents to propose creative approaches to delivering these services. The Association recognizes that qualified candidates may have different perspectives regarding organizational structure, service delivery, and member support.
Innovative ideas that enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and long-term sustainability of MPA's training and industry relations program are welcomed and will be considered during the evaluation process.
Submission Content
Interested respondents should provide:
- Letter of interest.
- Summary of qualifications and relevant experience.
- Description of training, technical, regulatory, and industry experience.
- Applicable certifications, credentials, and instructor qualifications.
- Description of the services the respondent is prepared to provide.
- Preferred relationship with MPA (employee, independent contractor, consulting organization, or other).
- Compensation expectations or proposed fee structure.
- Suggestions for structuring or improving the position to best meet the future needs of MPA and its members.
- Three professional references.
Selection Process
Following review of submitted qualifications, MPA may invite selected respondents to participate in interviews and further discussions regarding the scope of services and organizational structure.
The Association reserves the right to modify the scope of services, organizational structure, and contractual relationship based upon the qualifications of the selected respondent and the future needs of MPA.
Submission of Qualifications
Responses will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.
Please submit qualifications and expressions of interest at your earliest convenience.
Please send all responses to:
Dave Wager
Executive Director
Minnesota Propane Association
12475 273rd Ave NW
Zimmerman, MN 55398
[email protected]
763-634-5611
Job Types: Contract, Full-time
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Professional development assistance
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Experience:
- Teaching: 1 year (Preferred)
- propane related: 1 year (Preferred)
- training: 1 year (Preferred)
Willingness to travel:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Zimmerman, MN 55398
