Josh Etzel, Vice President of Operations, Kinder Morgan, Inc.

What inspired you to serve on the ILTA Board, and what do you see as its responsibility to members today?

I was inspired to serve on the ILTA Board by the opportunity to play a role in our industry's future.   ILTA plays a critical role in aligning diverse operators around shared priorities, and Board service is a meaningful way to contribute to the long‑term health and credibility of the association.

Today, I see the Board’s responsibility as providing clear leadership, strong governance, and strategic focus. That includes ensuring ILTA delivers tangible value to our members, represents the industry effectively, and remains financially and organizationally strong. The Board must also help position ILTA to anticipate change rather than react to it, so members are supported not just in today’s operating environment, but well into the future.

How has ILTA helped you or your organization stay informed, connected, or prepared in a rapidly changing regulatory and operating environment?

ILTA has been an essential resource for staying informed and prepared amid evolving regulations, safety expectations, and operational challenges. ILTA is widely known and highly regarded across the industry, as well as among policymakers and regulatory agencies in Washington, DC.  

Through timely updates, webinars, working groups, and conference programming, ILTA helps translate complex regulatory developments into practical insights that operators can act on.

Equally important has been the access to peer knowledge. ILTA creates trusted forums where members can openly and candidly share experiences, ask questions, and compare approaches. That connectivity has helped our organization validate decisions, identify emerging risks earlier, and adapt more confidently to change in a fast‑moving environment.

Where do you see the greatest opportunity for ILTA to make an impact for the liquid terminals industry over the next few years?

The greatest opportunity for ILTA is to continue elevating the essential role liquid terminals play in global supply chains and the broader economy. Independent terminals are critical infrastructure, enabling the safe and reliable movement of energy and liquid products that underpin industries, trade, and everyday life worldwide.

ILTA is uniquely positioned to reinforce this message while supporting members through regulatory engagement, safety leadership, workforce development, and innovation. By proactively telling the industry’s story and helping members prepare for long‑term shifts—whether related to energy transition, resilience, or modernization—ILTA can strengthen both the perception and the practical readiness of the sector in the years ahead.

What leadership principle or habit do you rely on most when navigating high-pressure or complex decisions?

In complex decision‑making situations, I focus on soliciting diverse viewpoints and carefully weighing incentives and potential consequences. This approach enables me to make thoughtful, balanced decisions that align with the long‑term interests of the broader organization, even under time pressure.

What advice would you offer to members—especially emerging leaders—on how to get the most value from ILTA membership and engagement?

My advice is to be actively engaged. ILTA delivers the greatest value to members who participate—whether through committees, working groups, conferences, or peer discussions. These opportunities not only build technical knowledge,  but also broaden professional networks and deepen industry perspectives.

For emerging leaders in particular, ILTA provides an invaluable environment to learn from experienced operators, gain visibility, and develop a broader understanding of the industry beyond a single facility or organization. The relationships I’ve built through ILTA have significantly expanded my perspective and provided a trusted forum for open discussion, reflection, and shared learning.

Tell us about your experience at the ILTA Conference & Trade Show.

The ILTA Conference & Trade Show is the premier event for the liquids terminal industry, combining strong technical content, candid peer discussions, and meaningful connections. The collaborative spirit of the community and the practical insights shared make it especially valuable. I leave each year informed, energized, and proud to be part of this industry.