AGA Announces Natural Gas Industry Awards

WASHINGTON - The American Gas Association today announced recipients of several of its highest honors at AGA's Executive Conference, celebrating exemplary leadership and service across the natural gas industry.

Distinguished Service Award

David H. Anderson, Chief Executive Officer (ret.), NW Natural Holdings / NW Natural

AGA's Distinguished Service Award, the Association's highest honor, was presented to David H. Anderson in recognition of a career marked by exceptional leadership, operational excellence and a deep commitment to customers and communities. Anderson joined NW Natural in 2004 and served as CFO, COO and President before becoming CEO in 2016. Anderson led the company through a period of modernization and growth serving approximately two million people across the Pacific Northwest.

"David's steady leadership and customer first mindset exemplify the highest standards of our industry as we provide safe, affordable and reliable energy to American families and businesses," said First Vice Chair Sid McAnnally, President and CEO of ONE Gas, Inc. "David has been a trusted voice for the value of local energy delivery systems. His impact is felt across operations, workforce development and community partnership, and across the communities served by NW Natural. This award reflects both his remarkable tenure and enduring legacy of service to the industry and to AGA."

Blue Flame Award

Dan Kirschner, Chief Executive Officer, Northwest Gas Association

AGA's Blue Flame Award recognizes outstanding service to customers, communities and the natural gas industry. This year's honoree, Dan Kirschner, has led the Northwest Gas Association since 2002, advancing informed, regional dialogue on reliability, planning and policy for the Pacific Northwest's natural gas delivery system.

"Dan has devoted decades to education and collaboration across the Pacific Northwest region," said AGA President and CEO Karen Harbert. "His work has strengthened understanding among policymakers and stakeholders and supported a safer, more resilient energy system."

Natural Gas Industry Leadership Award

Michael "Mike" German, Chief Executive Officer (ret.), Corning Energy Corporation

William E. Mojica, Senior Vice President of Gas Operations, NiSource Inc.

AGA's Natural Gas Industry Leadership Award honors individuals who demonstrate notable achievement and leadership among their peers in pursuit of operational excellence. This year, it honors two such distinguished individuals.

Mike German is recognized for a 48-year career spanning senior leadership roles across the sector, including President & CEO of Corning Energy Corporation (formerly Corning Natural Gas Holding Corporation) and prior executive roles at Southern Union, Energy East and Connecticut Natural Gas, as well as service at AGA.

William E. Mojica is honored for industry leadership in safety, operations and risk management. As Senior Vice President of Gas Operations at NiSource, Mojica leads gas operations across a six-state service territory serving more than three million natural gas customers; he contributes nationally through technical and standards bodies including PHMSA's Gas Pipeline Advisory Committee and initiatives on gas-electric reliability.

"Mike's track record of operational stewardship and mentorship of developing leaders has elevated performance across multiple companies," said Harbert. "Additionally, William's data-driven approach to safety and asset management represents the best of continuous improvement in our industry."