The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) presented its highest award to John Christianson, a pioneer of the renewable fuels industry. The Merle Anderson Award, named after the founder of ACE, is given to individuals who display unmatched dedication and support to the organization and the domestic ethanol industry.
As a young certified public accountant in the early 1980s, John gained experience and made meaningful connections during the challenging farm crisis years. In the 1990s, he was approached by a group of local farmers wanting financial consulting to start an ethanol plant, one of the first in Minnesota. The launch was a success. Soon Christianson & Associates was known as part of the ‘Minnesota Model’ and were supporting ethanol start-ups and clients across the nation. His company was instrumental in developing dozens of ethanol plants during the construction boom of 2000s.
“Receiving the American Coalition for Ethanol Merle Anderson Award is true honor. The majority of my career has been dedicated to supporting renewable energy and the future of farming. This award is a testament to the team I work with every day that are dedicated to making a difference,” said John. “In the ethanol industry, where every drop represents a step towards a cleaner, greener planet, this honor is a reminder that the work we do today lays the foundation for a better tomorrow.”
John was instrumental in developing and delivering Biofuels Benchmarking™ for ethanol plants to access industry data, insights, and reports. Representing 45% of all North American ethanol producers, Biofuels Benchmarking™ empowers plant leaders get the information they need and improve operational and financial performance. He remains heavily involved with Biofuels Benchmarking™, serving as President of the company.
Over the decades of his career, Christianson PLLP has blossomed into a full-service firm providing accounting, tax, attestation, compliance, and business advisory services. Because of those early connections in renewable fuels, Christianson PLLP has global expertise in carbon markets and validations for low carbon fuel standards. Christianson PLLP is often consulted to provide suggestions for improvements as governing bodies develop or modify programs in renewable fuels.
John left his managing partner role at the firm to become a director in 2021. He is also the President at Beyond, A Christianson Company. Beyond leads software solutions connecting plant operations and accounting. Additionally, he is also a member of the Minnesota Governor’s Biofuels Council and a current board member and Treasurer of ACE.
