VTNR

Vertex Energy Inc.

A Houston-based refiner that turns recycled used motor oil and other feedstocks into products like diesel and jet fuel, plus high-purity base oils used in lubricants. Founder Benjamin Cowart got his start at age 16 working for his brother's used-oil collection business in Alabama, then moved to Houston in 2001 to start the company. The name comes from "vertex," the peak of a geometric angle—fitting for a firm that climbed from hauling waste oil to running refineries.