Management Biographies
Andrew Duckworth - President - Andy received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting (Summa Cum Laude) from the University of Akron in 1990. He was with Ernst & Young, LLP through 1995 and is a Certified Public Accountant. From 1996 to 1999, Andy was a controller for the Philip Services Corporation. Andy joined UPL in 1999. He oversees all operational functions including, but not limited to, aquistions, project development, finance, accounting, marketing, human resources and information systems functions. Email Andrew Duckworth
Robert M. Wentzel Jr. - V.P. Operations (Northern Region) - Bob has a degree in Mechanical Engineering with an emphasis on Welding Fabrication and Metallurgy. Bob joined UPL at its inception in 1995. He is responsible for supervising and managing field operations, safety and compliance, and coordinating natural gas pipeline construction for UPL's northern region. This includes responsibility for all phases of construction from the bid process through project restoration, including securing permits, complying with governmental agencies, supervising subcontract labor, purchasing materials and overseeing the entire construction process. Email Robert M. Wentzel Jr.
Douglas Gray - V.P. Operations - Doug joined UPL in 2004. From 1990 until his arrival at UPL, Doug was responsible for oil and gas production activities and pipeline system operations for Power Resources Operating Company as the Vice President of Operations. He is responsible for supervising and managing all field operations, safety compliance, and coordinating natural gas pipeline construction for UPL's southern region. This includes responsibility for all phases of construction from the bid process through project restoration, including securing permits, complying with governmental agencies, supervising subcontract labor, purchasing materials and overseeing the entire construction process. Email Douglas Gray
Anthony Desiato - Company Controller - Anthony received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and a Minor in Finance from the University of Akron in 2007. He worked in public accounting prior to joining UPL in 2010. He is responsible for finance, accounting, and information systems functions. Email Anthony Desiato
Vanessa Watson - Marketing Manager - Vanessa received a Bachelor's Degree from Kent State University College of Business Administration in Business Management in December of 2007. Vanessa Joined UPL in February of 2008 as a member of the accounting department. She is currently responsible for overseeing all public relations and marketing operations in coordination with Customer Service and Field Operations. Email Vanessa Watson
Christina Tippel - Customer Service Manager - Christina received an Associate's Degree in Applied Business in Legal Assisting Technology from Stark State College of Technology in 1997. Christina joined UPL in 1999. Prior to joining UPL, Christina worked at Belden & Blake Corporation in the accounting department for the Oilfield Sales/Services Division. She is responsible for supervising and managing all Customer Service and Billing Operations, which also includes coordination with Construction and Field Operations.Email Christina Tippel
Shirley Powers - Accounting Manager - Shirley joined UPL in 1998 from Viking Resources bring many years of experience in general office accounting and knowledge of the energy industry. She manages the accounting department and supervises daily accounting operations.
