GROEBNER is celebrating 50 years in business this year. Five decades of supporting the natural gas industry through strong partnerships, technical knowledge, and a commitment to doing the work right.
Behind those 50 years are people.
During Women’s History Month, we’re proud to highlight the women across GROEBNER whose career paths, leadership, and everyday contributions continue to shape how we serve our customers. From warehouse operations to customer care, from sales support to executive leadership, every role matters.
GROEBNER is a woman-owned business, certified through WBENC, and we believe opportunity should be built on skill, experience, and a willingness to step forward.
Here’s what that looks like in their own words.
Leadership That Listens
Carissa Skorczewski grew up around the business and now leads GROEBNER into its third generation. For her, leadership starts with people.
“My main goal is to make people feel heard and important and be able to contribute.”
That focus on voice and contribution shows up across the organization and reflects the kind of leadership culture GROEBNER strives to build.
Alice Zak, who has been part of GROEBNER for 27+ years, has experienced that support throughout her career.
“GROEBNER has always had confidence in my abilities. And GROEBNER never doubted me.”
That trust created space to grow, lead, and help shape the next chapter of the company.
Building Relationships That go Beyond the Product
GROEBNER is more than a distributor. We are a trusted advisor for natural gas products and services, supporting municipalities, utilities, and contractors with expertise, training, and long-term partnership.
Kaylene Yopp, a Territory Manager, explains it this way:
“Partnership with our customers is more than just supplying product. The knowledge our team is able to share, training and service we provide, allows our customers to spend more of their time on the bigger picture, providing natural gas to the communities they serve.”
That partnership requires confidence and preparation in a complex industry.
Shannon Lessner, a Territory Manager, shares what it looks like to build credibility in a complex industry:
“I’m proud of establishing my place in a traditionally male-dominated industry. I feel strongly about proving myself with preparation, integrity, and persistence. Every time I walk into a room and contribute real value, that’s a win.”
These perspectives reinforce what has carried GROEBNER forward for 50 years: strong relationships, technical knowledge, and a commitment to doing the work well.
Precision, Accountability, and Customer Care
In our warehouse and operations teams, attention to detail directly impacts customer trust.
Jordyn Stevens, our Warehouse Lead in Minnesota, describes her responsibility clearly:
“I am one of the last people to touch an order and the last line of defense before our customers take possession of their orders.”
Every shipment represents our standards. Accuracy and accountability are part of the promise we make to customers.
Financial precision matters just as much behind the scenes. Kayla Sawatzke, who supports accounting and financial processes, shares:
“Attention to detail and timely close processes directly contribute to the company's financial health and long-term success.”
On the customer care side, growth and opportunity are just as important. Kim Peterson started as a customer care representative and progressed into branch leadership. Her message to women entering the industry reflects her experience:
“I want women to understand they have a voice. Use your confidence and never be afraid to speak up.”
Together, these roles ensure GROEBNER remains reliable, accurate, and built for the long term.
Growth That Happens from Within
Career paths at GROEBNER are built through mentorship, teamwork, and a willingness to take on new challenges.
Jessica Siegrist, Director of Corporate Operations, shares her perspective:
“For a woman, I feel like you really need to step up sometimes, be a little vocal, have confidence in yourself, and break those barriers and show them the value that you bring to the table.”
Jana Darling, who has been with GROEBNER for 20+ years, offers advice shaped by her own experience in a male-dominated field:
“Find your voice. Be willing to speak up.”
That mentorship mindset extends beyond internal teams. Jana has worked alongside many women entering the industry for the first time, helping them learn, grow, and build confidence in their expertise.
Teamwork That Powers Everything
Not every impact is visible from the outside, but it is felt across the organization. Echo Dvorak, our Minnesota Administrative Assistant who supports multiple departments, explains it simply:
“What I can do to help those in the office affects what they are able to do outside the office.”
Kendra Horejsi, our Sales and Marketing Administrator who supports our sales team through events and special projects, shares a similar view:
“I believe the support I provide to my team makes their days just a little easier, and if that’s the case, then I’m doing something right.”
That mindset reflects the way GROEBNER operates. Collaboration matters. Relationships matter. Every role contributes to the bigger picture.
Looking Ahead
The energy industry continues to evolve. Customer needs shift. Technology advances. Expectations grow.
Through it all, the women of GROEBNER bring expertise, empathy, accountability, and confidence to their work.
As we recognize Women’s History Month and celebrate 50 years as a company, we’re proud of the people who continue to move GROEBNER forward.
The next chapter is being written by the same principles that built the first 50 years: strong relationships, trusted expertise, and a team that shows up for each other and for our customers every day.