The science behind biodiesel is proven—but getting it to perform flawlessly in the field takes more than lab data. This interactive breakout session dives into the real-world challenges and successes of using higher blends in cold climates. Hear from those in the field making it work every day. From busting cold weather myths to highlighting the latest in additives, tank management and winter blending strategies, this session offers a hands-on look at what it really takes to deliver reliable performance in tough conditions.
Speakers:
Leo Verruso
General Manager
Advanced Fuel Solutions
Leo Verruso has served as General Manager of Advanced Fuel Solutions (AFS), a Boston-based company that develops fuel additives that enhance the performance and reliability of all liquid fuels. He has over 30 years of experience spanning service, delivery, fuel sales and system equipment installations.
He is grateful to have been part of an industry that has achieved remarkable progress, finding the most rewarding part of his career the contributions to improved customer experience while delivering measurable value to the fuel companies that serve them.
He is an active board member of the National Energy & Fuels Institute (NEFI) and New York Hudson Valley Oil & Energy Council.
Suzanne Golisz
Technical Director of Cold Flow Improvers
Innospec Fuel Specialties
Suzanne Golisz is an organometallic chemist who has been working in liquid fuels for the majority of her career. In her role at Innospec Fuel Specialties as the Technical Director of Cold Flow Improvers, Suzanne is responsible for the cold flow improver product line in the Americas. She is focused on ensuring that Innospec’s additive packages have the best performing technology to properly support their customers’ existing and future needs.
Prior to joining Innospec, Suzanne worked at both ExxonMobil and Chevron in fuel product quality.
Suzanne holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the California Institute of Technology and a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Rochester. She is a volunteer career consultant with the American Chemical Society.
Gus Pesaturo
Executive Vice President
Diesel Direct
As Executive Vice President of Diesel Direct, Gus Pesaturo oversees one of the nation’s most dynamic and fast-growing fuel delivery companies. With a sharp focus on operational excellence, Gus ensures that every gallon delivered to fleet, marine, and rail customers meets the highest standards of quality and performance. His leadership reflects Diesel Direct’s commitment to precision logistics and “white-glove” service—optimizing deliveries nationwide while guaranteeing the cleanest, most dependable fuel for every application. Under Gus’s direction, Diesel Direct continues to set the benchmark for innovation, reliability, and customer satisfaction in the modern fuel supply chain.
Moderator:
Paul Nazzaro
President
The Nazzaro Group
Paul Nazzaro is President of The Nazzaro Group and has represented Clean Fuels since 1996 in the capacity of Supply Chain Liaison. He focuses on ensuring the successful commercialization of low carbon liquid fuels nationally. He has developed and implemented countless training and communication programs to advance the growth of these fuels. He also presides over Advanced Fuel Solutions, a performance additive organization serving terminals, wholesalers and fuel distributors throughout the nation. Nazzaro serves on the Board of Directors for the Massachusetts Energy Marketers Association and countless other state Bioheat® fuel industry groups.

