When you’ve been in business for more than 150 years, it might be tempting to rely on history. But for F.F. Hitchcock, based in Cheshire, Connecticut, history is only the beginning.
On the latest episode of the Mission Possible podcast, Vice President John Bowman shared how both the company and the energy industry are evolving. Founded in 1870 as a coal delivery business, F.F. Hitchcock has continually adapted to meet changing energy needs. Today, the company delivers a cleaner, greener fuel by blending ultra-low-sulfur heating oil with renewable biodiesel made from recycled cooking oil and soybean oil. This process diverts waste from landfills and transforms it into a safe, clean-burning fuel.
“The heating oil we sold 20 years ago isn’t even the same product we deliver today. The fuel has been completely transformed,” Bowman said.
Technicians see the difference immediately. Heating systems run significantly cleaner, and customers use less fuel thanks to modern equipment and improved combustion efficiency.
“The fuel speaks for itself,” Bowman added. “Customers see the benefits in fewer service calls and better overall system performance.”
This commitment reflects the company’s core philosophy: honor your heritage but lead with innovation.
“Heritage matters, but change is how we move the industry forward,” Bowman said. “We offer a product that works for consumers and helps reduce emissions.”
For F.F. Hitchcock, innovation goes beyond cleaner fuel. It means challenging assumptions, embracing new technologies, and demonstrating that a company founded in the 19th century can still lead in the 21st.
More than a century later, the mission remains the same: keep families warm, do it responsibly, and never stop improving.
Recognized for Industry Leadership
In 2025, John Bowman was named Marketer of the Year by the Connecticut Energy Marketers Association (CEMA), one of the industry’s highest honors.
The award was presented at the Southern New England Energy Conference in Newport, Rhode Island, in September 2025. For more than 75 years, CEMA has recognized professionals who make significant and lasting contributions to the heating and energy industry.
Bowman was honored for his outstanding leadership and service, particularly in his role as Chair of CEMA’s Legislative Committee. Through his advocacy and commitment, he has helped shape policies that support both energy marketers and the customers they serve.
F.F. Hitchcock Co., Inc. provides heating fuels, HVAC, and plumbing services throughout Connecticut, and Bowman’s recognition reflects both his personal dedication and the company’s broader commitment to progress and responsibility within the industry.
Sharing the Story of Change
Bowman appeared on the Mission Possible podcast, produced by CEMA, alongside host Shelly Sindland and guest co-host Nickey Kollie-Seshiemeh, MPA. Kollie-Seshiemeh, CEMA’s Director of Legislative Affairs and Member Services, began her career as an intern before joining the association full-time in 2017. Today, she leads legislative advocacy, membership initiatives, special projects, and the CT NORA Upgrade and Save Program.
“I’m proud of the work we’re doing at CEMA and enjoy sharing our story of leadership and change,” Kollie said. “We deliver a greener, cleaner fuel today — not tomorrow, but today.”
You can listen to Mission Possible on YouTube.