Energy programs provide convenience, value and peace of mind

By Cassie Wandersee, MKC Staff Writer
MKC operates one of the top professional energy departments in the state of Kansas and their Certified Energy Specialists (CES) are a crucial aspect of the energy department.

Certified Energy Specialists Chris Chandler, Brian
Huxman and Donne Holtzinger play a critical
role in the success of MKC's energy division.

Certified Energy Specialists are highly trained in petroleum products and petroleum applications in order to provide the best service for customers and producers. Overall the goal of a CES is to provide convenient service and help the producer manage risk. MKC employs three Certified Energy Specialists to best serve customers.

“I think the most valuable skill a CES can have is the understanding that relationships drive this business,” said Chris Chandler. Chandler joined MKC in 2009 as a CES and was recognized in 2010 as a top lubricant salesman by Cenex.

Each CES working for MKC realizes the importance of building a relationship with the customer and understanding the customer’s need. Their purpose is to assist the producer in their farming practice, not simply sell them a product.

 “Anybody can go out and sell something. It is what you do after the sale that differentiates you from the competitor,” said Donnie Holtzinger. Holtzinger graduated from Wichita State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in management and marketing. He joined MKC in April of 2010 as a CES.

“If the right foundation is laid out and you have built a good trusting relationship with the customer, it makes things a lot easier down the road,” Holtzinger said.

The energy department recently added another CES to their ranks with the hiring of Brian Huxman in mid-June.

Since implementing Certified Energy Specialists into the energy department, Jason Creed, the Director of Energy Operations for MKC, says they have seen a large growth in commercial areas, picking up large accounts associated with construction, trucking, concrete and many other companies.

One important service that a CES promotes through the energy department is the Automated Fuel Delivery (AFD) system.

Implemented in 2004, the service works through an electronic monitoring system installed on the fuel tank that constantly monitors the level of fuel. When the fuel level drops below a predetermined level, a signal is sent to the fuel distribution center and the closest delivery truck is routed to the tank to fill it.

The convenience of the automatic fuel delivery is an excellent service for producers with busy schedules.

“AFD increases productivity of the farm by automatically routing and delivering fuel to all of its customers, which saves them time and the hassle of dealing with it,” said Holtzinger.

Under the Automated Fuel Delivery program, producers only pay for the fuel they use each month. The option to buy out the inventory of the tank at any time is available to producers, as well as options for fuel contracts and average monthly pricing.

“The AFD system is invaluable for the producer. They win from all angles. It eliminates the worry about running out of fuel and minimizes risk and exposure to the volatile markets,” said Chandler.

CJ Blew, MKC board of directors’ chairman, uses the AFD service on his farming operation in the Castleton-Pretty Prairie area. Blew said he began using the service for “convenience more than anything. It’s really nice to not have to worry about ordering fuel.”

The bulk oil delivery program is one of many invaluable services offered by the MKC energy department.

“Our bulk oil program is a good option for the producer as well,” said Chandler. “It eliminates the mess of barrels and gives producers and customers a break on price.” By ordering oil in bulk, a reduced price is offered.

The Total Protection Plan Warranty is another program that is endorsed by MKC. It is offered through Cenex and provides coverage for engines and transmissions when Ruby Fieldmaster premium diesel and Cenex lubricants are exclusively used in equipment.

“I am a huge fan of the Total Protection Plan Warranty offered through Cenex. What other company will offer a no fault warranty on farm equipment for 10 years or 10,000 hours with the use of their products? Nobody,” said Holtzinger. “It says a lot about a company that stands behind their products to this degree. The warrant program is another unique program MKC offers to its customers, and every producer out there with qualifying equipment should be taking advantage of it.”

Galen Becker, who farms south of Burns, is one of many MKC customers that have utilized the services provided by the Certified Energy Specialists. He said that, “one of the main reasons I use the programs offered by the CES’ is because of the warranty on my tractors and the service they provide.” While Becker has never had to use the warranty, he said it is good to know that his equipment is protected. Becker also uses the Automated Fuel Delivery system on his farm.

Whether producers are taking advantage of the AFD system, bulk oil, or warranty protection plans, they can be assured their CES is knowledgeable and will provide the best customer service available in the petroleum industry today.