Our Story
Around here, folks still talk about Papa Leonard. A hard-working family man with a knack for knowing what his neighbors needed, Leonard Waguespack founded Vacherie Fuel in the early 1930s, right in the heart of Vacherie, Louisiana. Back then, propane was the go-to, but as the years rolled on, the world shifted, and so did the demand for propane and the role of Vacherie Fuel.
In 2014, Papa’s grandson, Albert “Allie” Waguespack III, packed up a successful engineering career and came home to reignite the family business. With years of technical expertise, Allie set out to honor his roots and modernize the business.
Not long after the company’s phoenix moment, he brought on fellow engineer and longtime friend Sina Zarei, and together they rolled up their sleeves and got to work. They invested in automation, streamlined the refurbishing process, and expanded Vacherie Fuel into Louisiana’s only local propane bottle exchange and bulk suppliers, serving family owned grocery stores, businesses, and industries across South Louisiana.
It’s been a long time, and propane is more popular than ever. But, some things don’t change. Still based in Vacherie and Thibodaux. Still family-owned. Still doing things the right way. And, we’re real proud to be the only local, family-run propane provider in Louisiana.
Because to us, propane is about people. It’s in every crawfish boil, every crop harvest, and every storm prep. We’re here to carry on Papa’s legacy with the same values he built this company on: family, integrity, and good old-fashioned Southern service.
Papa would be proud. And, we’re just getting started.
Leonard Waguespack and Team, 1934
The Vacherie Team
Albert Waguespack III
President
Albert serves as President of Vacherie Fuel, where he’s led the company for over 11 years. He takes pride in working alongside a dedicated, hard-working team and enjoys finding creative solutions to new opportunities each day. Originally from Thibodaux, Louisiana, Albert loves spending time with his family at their Mississippi hunting camp and cheering on his kids in their many sports. Known for his hands-on approach, he plays a key role in large-scale and expansion projects, using his engineering background to bring new ideas to life. A perfectionist at heart—even with his lawn—Albert is inspired by how far Vacherie Fuel has come since its early, humble beginnings.
Sina Zarei
Executive Vice President
Sina Zarei, Vice President at Vacherie Fuel for nine years, is known for “wearing all the hats” to support both operations and sales. Originally from Lafayette, he loves winning over new customers who turn to Vacherie Fuel after poor service elsewhere.
Outside of work, Sina enjoys LSU sports, running, and spending time on the water with his family. He’s also working toward his charter captain’s license and is driven by a passion for growing the business and creating local job opportunities.
Lannie Authement
Operations
Lannie serves as the Operations Manager at Vacherie Fuel, where he’s been part of the team for five years. He takes pride in teaching the younger generation valuable work and life skills while helping the company run smoothly each day. Originally from Houma, Louisiana, Lannie enjoys hunting, fishing, and living life to the fullest. Always eager to learn and improve, he focuses on operating new equipment, creating procedures, and solving daily challenges. He’s inspired by the people around him who work hard and strive to make life better.
Laura Thibodaux
Office Manager
Laura Thibodaux has been Vacherie Fuel’s Office Manager for five years and loves working with her team and meeting new people each day. Originally from Choupic, she enjoys reading, spending time with friends, and relaxing with her dogs.
Nathaniel Streams
Cylinder Delivery Coordinator
Nathaniel Streams has been with Vacherie Fuel for three years as Fleet Maintenance and Exchange Operations Lead, enjoying the family-like environment and customer connections. From Houma, he spends his free time working out, cooking, gaming, and baking sweets.
James Pierce
Bulk Delivery Coordinator
James has been a Propane Service Technician and Bulk Delivery Driver at Vacherie Fuel for 11 years. Originally from Nederland, Texas, he now calls Thibodaux home. Known as the go-to person for procedural questions, he values the camaraderie and teamwork that make Vacherie Fuel feel like family.
Dana Brunet
Executive Assistant
Dana serves as the receptionist and inside sales representative at Vacherie Fuel. She enjoys the friendly, family-like atmosphere and finds it rewarding to help customers and support her coworkers each day. Known for her strong work ethic and dedication, she’s driven to keep learning, be a team player, and give her best in everything she does.