SEPATEC and Payne Oil partner to support veterans’ retreat project

The Southeast Propane Alliance Technical Education Center (SEPATEC) partnered with Payne Oil to provide critical equipment and installation services for the Alamance County Veterans Association (ALCOVETS).

The collaborative effort took place on March 11 at Bass Mountain, North Carolina, the future retreat site designed to offer veterans and their families a peaceful outdoor sanctuary for rest and relaxation.

As part of the initiative, SEPATEC students, guided by instructors Kenneth Melton and Bob Moore, along with former SEPATEC student Aaron Moore, installed a propane tank, dug a trench to supply the gas line and installed a tankless water heater. The equipment will support the retreat’s bathhouse and washroom facilities.

The hands-on installation experience directly applied the students’ recent training in SEPATEC’s two educational courses:

• 4.1 Designing and Installing Exterior Vapor Distribution Systems
• 4.2 Placing Vapor Distribution Systems and Appliances into Operation

Through the project, students gained real-world experience that will prepare them for careers in the industry, according to SEPATEC.

“This partnership was a tremendous opportunity for our students to apply their skills in a meaningful way while giving back to the veteran community,” says John Peña, director of education for SEPATEC. “It was an honor to support ALCOVETS and contribute to a project that will benefit veterans and their families for years to come.”

The project was made possible through contributions from industry partners. Payne Oil donated the propane tank and additional equipment, while Gardner Marsh Gas Equipment and Angi Harris provided the tankless water heater.

According to the organization, SEPATEC remains committed to fostering industry partnerships and providing hands-on learning experiences that benefit both students and the community.