Orion Bailey

Chairman

Orion is a co-founder with a passion for creating sustainable solutions for the waste management and green energy industry, bringing a unique perspective to the business world.

His experience in designing and implementing waste management systems has enabled him to develop breakthrough solutions that minimize waste and maximize resource recovery.

Orion's expertise in green energy has led to the development of innovative technologies that harness renewable energy sources, reducing the carbon footprint of businesses and individuals alike. His visionary approach to sustainability goals has been recognized by industry veterans and has earned him a reputation as a thought leader in the field.

In addition to Orion's waste management and green energy expertise, he is also an expert in value innovation and the Blue Ocean Strategy, which has enabled him to develop truly innovative solutions that create value for both customers and the environment. His commitment to excellence and his ability to think big make him a true leader in his field, and his impact on the world will be felt for years to come.

Orion has led the development of several innovative waste management solutions, including a system that turns organic waste into energy and a recycling program that diverts waste from landfills. His commitment to carbon-neutral energy has led to the development of a groundbreaking solar energy project that provides sustainable energy to communities in need. As a co-founder, Orion is always looking for ways to leverage technology and innovation to create a sustainable future. His dedication to sustainability and his ability to think creatively make him an asset to any organization looking to create a more sustainable world.

Thomas Cutting

CEO

Thomas Cutting is a seasoned entrepreneur, software engineer, and operator with a proven track record of scaling multiple 7-8 figure businesses and driving technological innovation across diverse industries.

With deep expertise in user acquisition, digital marketing, and growth hacking, Thomas has successfully co-founded and led several tech companies, including SmashByte (Cloud Data Storage Business), AcquireCrowd (AdTech/Lead Generation), Backslash Digital (Marketing For Nike/American Express Agency), Reserve Tech (Software Agency and Staffing), and Thrame (Professional Social Network For College Students).

Thomas's accomplishments include scaling an AdTech startup from $1M to $12M ARR alongside his executive team, demonstrating his ability to transform nascent companies into industry leaders; Thomas sold this company in 2022.

He also successfully funded an offshore oil exploration company with $20 million in debt capital from a Houston-based Hedge Fund, further showcasing his versatility and expertise in executing complex and impactful transactions.

Thomas' extensive experience in the tech industry provides him with a unique perspective on various sectors, particularly in marketing, insurance, funding, waste management, and green energy. He recognizes the transformative potential of technology-driven solutions to create a more sustainable future and is committed to leveraging his expertise to make a positive impact.

Beyond his professional achievements, Thomas is a passionate advocate for clean energy.

He believes that businesses have a responsibility to contribute to the greater good and is dedicated to using his talents and resources to effect meaningful change in the world.

Thomas resides in Southern California with his wife and lovely German Shepherd.

Dr. Latif Mahjoob

Technologist

As Technologist at Orion Power, Latif brings a wealth of experience in the energy and waste management industries. With a background in scientific research, Latif is a top scientist who authored California EPA Vehicle Emissions Regulations in the 1990s (EPA 1146).

Dr. A. Latif Mahjoob is a renowned mechanical and chemical engineer with a strong academic background. He received his Ph.D. and M.S. in Mechanical/Chemical and Industrial Engineering from Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY. Prior to this, he completed his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Kabul University, Afghanistan.

His breakthroughs in the field include patented multiple waste-to-energy technologies and founding ARTI to commercialize these technologies. At Orion Power, Latif is focused on leading innovation in sustainable energy solutions, utilizing his expertise to develop cutting-edge technologies for waste management and green energy.

Dr. Mahjoob has an extensive history in the waste management and green energy industry, spanning over four decades. In 2015, he founded American Renewable Technologies, Inc., where he is involved in Gas-to-Liquid fuels technologies, converting natural gas or Pyro gas into liquid fuel using Fischer-Tropsch and Electron Beam methods.

His contributions to the industry have been recognized by numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the "Top 50 Innovators in Waste to Energy" by Waste & Recycling News. Throughout his career, he has held senior positions at companies like Dixon Boiler Works, Arian Engineering & Combustion Systems, Kewanee Boiler Company, and Johnston Boiler Company, where he led large teams and developed innovative technologies.

Dr. Mahjoob is also an accomplished researcher and author, having published numerous papers on combustion and environmental topics. His work includes groundbreaking research on NOx reduction, combustion technologies, and environmental emissions control. With over 16 combustion and technology-related patents, he continues to push the boundaries of innovation in sustainable energy solutions.

At Orion Power, Latif is instrumental in guiding the company towards a greener future, and his vision for innovative energy solutions is shaping the future of the industry.

Gorton Vallely

Senior Advisor

Gorton brings a wealth of recycling industry experience to ORION Power. As a seasoned entrepreneur, Gorton's vast network built over many years, is invaluable as ORION Power continues to seek high growth through partnerships and affiliates.

Gorton acquired his father's tire business in 1972 after serving in the US Army as an Artillery computer repairman for the 25th Infantry Division, Cu Chi Viet Nam. After 25 years in the traditional tire business, he expanded to recycling tires. After retiring from the profitable retail tire business, he adventured into the Real Estate business.

19 years prior, his passion for recycling scrap tires led him to explore many innovative alternatives. At that time, though pyrolysis was scientifically possible, no scalable options were commercially viable yet. Fast forward to today, where pyrolysis and depolymerization technology have now been commercially proven in a technology with ORION Power and Dr Latif Mahjoob, Gorton is extremely excited and proud to support and bear witness to the next evolution of tire recycling.

James Hurley

VP Operations

Jim Hurley brings over 15 years of experience in supply chain management, operations, and commodity strategies to Orion Power. As Vice President of Operations, Jim oversees all facets of supply planning, supplier relations, and contract negotiations to ensure the seamless production and delivery of renewable diesel. His leadership is instrumental in driving operational efficiency and aligning Orion Power's processes with industry-leading practices.

Prior to joining Orion Power, Jim held senior roles at global organizations such as Google, Facebook/Meta, Cisco, and Western Digital. He has a proven track record in deploying innovative supply chain solutions, spearheading cross-functional teams, and negotiating high-impact contracts. His accomplishments include leading supplier development programs, pioneering engineering service initiatives, and optimizing commodity sourcing for multimillion-dollar projects.

Jim's expertise extends across a wide range of areas, including supply chain management, technology integration, and production planning. His strategic approach has resulted in significant cost reductions and operational improvements throughout his career. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and certifications in ISO auditing, Six Sigma, and supply chain negotiations.

At Orion Power, Jim is dedicated to advancing the company's mission of producing sustainable energy solutions by leveraging his extensive operational expertise and passion for driving impactful change.

Jack Thrift

CFO

Jack Thrift is a seasoned financial leader with over 25 years of experience in the securities and investment industries, specializing in guiding companies through complex financial landscapes and structuring 8- and 9-figure deals. As Chief Financial Officer at Orion Power, Jack leverages his extensive background in finance and accounting to oversee the company's financial strategy, ensure compliance, and optimize its fiscal operations to support sustainable growth in renewable diesel production.

Jack's expertise lies in managing high-stakes transactions and navigating the intricate balance between risk and reward. His ability to "walk the tightrope" of complex financial negotiations has been instrumental in closing transformative deals that drive significant value. Before joining Orion Power, Jack co-founded DeBruin & Thrift Accountancy Group, Inc., a boutique CPA practice in San Diego, CA. There, he specialized in helping entrepreneurs build better businesses through tailored accounting, tax strategies, and financial advisory services. His clientele included a diverse range of industries, from healthcare practices to online businesses and retail operations.

In addition to his work at DeBruin & Thrift, Jack has cultivated strong relationships within the banking, brokerage, mortgage, and real estate sectors, enabling him to provide holistic financial solutions for clients. His hands-on approach to financial management and his focus on building sustainable business models make him an invaluable asset to Orion Power's leadership team.

Jack's financial acumen, combined with his commitment to innovation and strategic foresight, ensures that Orion Power remains at the forefront of the renewable energy industry. Under his stewardship, the company continues to solidify its financial foundation while driving forward its mission of producing sustainable energy solutions.

Kelly Bagla

General Counsel

Kelly Bagla, Esq., is a celebrated attorney, best-selling author, and dynamic entrepreneur with over two decades of legal and business expertise. As General Counsel for Orion Power, Kelly brings her unparalleled leadership and a proven track record of empowering businesses to the forefront of the renewable energy industry. Known as the "Queen of Business Law®," she is renowned for her ability to safeguard companies, mitigate risks, and strategically navigate complex legal landscapes.

Kelly's multifaceted career spans the legal and entrepreneurial worlds, where she has founded and led multiple enterprises alongside her successful law practice, Bagla Law Firm, APC. Her innovative approach to law and business has earned her recognition as the Top CEO of 2024. She is dedicated to fostering economic security and growth, not just within her community but also globally, through her mission to educate and empower entrepreneurs.

In addition to her work at Orion Power, Kelly is the author of six books, including the New York Times bestseller Go Legal Yourself!®. Her publications and public speaking engagements have inspired countless entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams while protecting their businesses. Kelly's dual perspective as both an entrepreneur and a legal expert ensures that Orion Power is equipped to meet the challenges of the rapidly evolving renewable energy sector.

Kelly's commitment to service extends beyond her legal practice. She actively supports veterans, offering discounted legal services and pro bono work through the Veterans Chamber of Commerce. She also champions animal welfare through her involvement with Last Chance at Life, a rescue and adoption organization. Her dedication to giving back exemplifies her deep belief in making a positive impact both professionally and personally.

At Orion Power, Kelly's integrity, innovation, and dedication to excellence solidify her role as a key leader, guiding the company through its mission to produce sustainable energy solutions while upholding the highest ethical standards.

Dianne Gubin

Chief Of Staff, Investment Banker & Investor Relations

Dianne Gubin is Chief of Staff leading initiatives, investor engagement and strategic partnerships for Orion Power. She has a key role in corporate growth, financial structuring and operational oversight.

As an investment banker with expertise in capital raising, financial structuring, and investor relations, Dianne is president of Capital InVentures under GT Securities. She connects investors with CEOs and management teams seeking debt and equity financing, leveraging her extensive network of private, corporate, financial, and institutional investors.

Dianne brings deep experience in evaluating opportunities, building capital stacks, and leading business development efforts. She excels in deal flow management, business plan analysis and due diligence. Her hands-on approach often includes working as an operational principal within client organizations. Her experience spans industries including energy, finance, technology, manufacturing, and more.

As an entrepreneur with 20+ years leadership experience, Dianne founded and scaled two IT consulting firms. Her background also includes production of hundreds of executive level networking events for peer professionals in finance, technology and business.   Dianne is the Co-CEO of C-Sweet, a premier national networking association for leaders across industries.

Dianne holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut and maintains active FINRA Series 79, 7, and 63 licenses. She lives in Los Angeles with her family and is very active within her community.

Elmer Hickman

Co-Founder

Elmer Hickman is a consultant based in Miami Beach, Florida. An exceptional coach and teacher with three university graduate degrees, Elmer combines a passion for high performance and an unwavering dedication to his clients.

Elmer's intimate understanding of lower socio-economic, plight of the peoples, and geo-political aspects of the marginalized is invaluable to Orion Power's growth, community and CSR goals. As a successful ex-professional NFL player for the Miami Dolphins, he is idolized in Alton for the success he's achieved in representing his hometown and overcoming the struggles of growing up in a low socio-economic area. He is highly valued brand ambassador for Orion Power and has close relationships with individuals in the highest offices of local Alton, IL government.

Elmer launched his career as a teacher in inner city Chicago, having multiple roles throughout his career including Athletic Director and Assistant Principal of Discipline. After almost 16 years refining his skills as a teacher, Elmer answered his soul's calling and set out to help transform the lives of businesses and everyday people through iterative change, fierce accountability and a touch of tough love. Elmer is a graduate of the University of Illinois in Champaign and attended high school in Alton, Illinois where he was a star football player and track athlete.

Martin von Wolfersdorff

rCB (Recycled Carbon Black) Advisor

Wolfersdorff Consulting are tire pyrolysis and recycling specialists. Martin von Wolfersdorff is an independent commercial consultant and EASC certified coach specializing in sustainability, tire-to-tire recycling, pyrolysis, and carbon black materials as well as content creation for the chemical industry. He has served management roles at Huntsman (titanium dioxide, TX, USA), Americhem (plastic masterbatch, OH, USA) and Cabot Corp. (carbon black, MA, USA).

Martin holds a Dipl. Eng. Chemical Engineering of Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (Germany). Wolfersdorff Consulting Berlin has been in operation as a consultancy since 2014. Martin has a passion for green carbon blacks and works with clients on a portfolio of alternative filler material including recovered carbon black from tire pyrolysis.

Martin assists in recovered carbon black product development, rCB refining and commercialization. Martin has an extensive network of buyers, sellers, and technologists in the rCB space and is a valuable resource to ORION Power in its carbon black commercialization.

Terry Mazanec, Ph.D.

Engineering Advisor

Dr. Mazanec has been involved in the renewable fuels and chemicals area for much of his 40 years in the industry. His expertise spans Biomass, Catalysis, Renewable Natural Gas (RNG), Biochemicals, Plastics Chemical Recycling, Pyrolysis, MSW Reclamation, IP, Gasification, Biogas, and Risk Analysis.

During his 20+ year tenure at BP's R&D division, he invented the groundbreaking Oxygen Transport Membrane process for in-situ oxygen separation from air for syngas production from natural gas. He led an international industrial technical team in developing and scaling up this innovative process.

As Chief Scientist at Velocys for 9 years, Dr. Mazanec spearheaded the development of microchannel processes for natural gas upgrading and chemicals production, including catalyst development, corrosion resistance, and metals coating. Later, as interim CTO of Anellotech, he directed R&D and developed intellectual property for proprietary processes converting biomass and plastics to aromatics and olefins.

Currently serving as Managing Director at LEC, where he has been a Subject Matter Expert since 2015, Dr. Mazanec brings extensive experience in biomass upgrading, natural gas conversion, solid oxide fuel cells, algae production, and chemical process development. His contributions to the field include 20 refereed publications and over 75 US Patents, plus numerous international patents.

Dr. Mazanec holds a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from The Ohio State University, where he studied under Prof Devon Meek, and conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Phil Henderson, MBA

Offtake Advisor

Berkah Resources provides Orion Power with advisory services in business development, origination and commercial consultation across a broad spectrum of transactions in the oil & gas sector.

Phil is a seasoned large-cap petroleum leader of over 35 years, specializing in commercialization, planning, logistics and operations. He spent most of his career at Texaco and Chevron. Phil's vast experience and breathe of knowledge about the petroleum industry is invaluable to Orion Power.

Phil has an MBA focused in Finance / Intl Business from Tulane University - A.B. Freeman School of Business.

Paul Caputo

HR/Hiring Advisor

For the last decade, Paul has focused on staffing utility projects and growing his connected workforce in the utilities space. He has since developed BridgeSource into a premiere boutique staffing company with elite expertise in recruiting and staffing high-performing IT specialists throughout the United States. With extensive experience in staffing SAP ECC, IS-U (CR&B), EWM, Oracle CC&B, Program/Project Management as well as a wide range of IT skill sets at Fortune 500 Clients, the BridgeSource Solutions team collectively brings decades of practical and tested knowhow in Contract and Permanent Staffing of highly qualified resources to Tier 1 Companies.

Vince Collaso

Commodities Advisor

Vincent Louis Collaso is an experienced financial professional specializing in brokering large diesel and petroleum deals across both state and national borders. With extensive expertise in the tax implications of fuel transactions, he has successfully navigated the complexities of cross-border energy trades, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks while optimizing cost structures for clients.

Beyond his role in petroleum brokering, Vincent has a strong background in working with hedge funds and private equity firms focused on oil and gas investments. His experience includes structuring deals that align with investment mandates, leveraging commodity market trends, and implementing strategic hedging strategies to mitigate risk in volatile energy markets.

In addition to his deep involvement in the energy sector, Vincent is a Registered Investment Adviser (RIA), bringing financial expertise and fiduciary responsibility to his clients. His licensure allows him to provide advisory services with a focus on asset management, wealth preservation, and strategic investment planning. His diverse experience across financial markets and energy commodities makes him a valuable asset for institutions and individuals seeking sophisticated financial and energy trading solutions.