LEADERSHIP

James Collins
President

As President of Valiant Energy Service, Jim leads the organization with his industry knowledge and experience. He also leads the day to day execution of the electrical construction team. Jim is an engaging hands-on leader who is passionate about creating alignment amongst all stakeholders.
Jim is a graduate of Mansfield University, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business, and completed his journeyman lineman training through the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Jim offers 30 years of hands on experience constructing and maintaining transmission, substation and distribution systems, and is an active member of the NECA Northeast Line Board of Directors, apprentice training and safety committees.

Thomas A. Tacconelli
Chief Operating Officer

Tom has more than twenty-three years of electrical construction experience, with extensive experience in the oversight, management and sponsorship of large distribution and transmission projects throughout the United States.

Tom completed his journeyman lineman training through the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and is an active member of NECA, Secretary of the NEAT Apprenticeship Board for Local Union 126, IBEW and actively participates in safety committees.

Brian Jopling
President of T&D Operations

As President of Transmission and Distribution, Brian Jopling oversees Valiant’s field operations to ensure every project is executed in a safe and productive manner. Mr. Jopling brings over 30 years of electrical industry experience to the business. He began his career as a wireman, and was accepted into the Lineman’s Apprenticeship (NEAT) program. He has also completed numerous project management courses. Brian’s experience in positions that include Estimator, Chief Estimator, Project Manager, Operations Manager, and Area Manager provide him with a vast knowledge of the Transmission and Distribution industry at every level.
Brian’s well-rounded education and experience enables him to supervise the work crews and ensure they have the proper PPE, equipment and tools to perform each project safely and efficiently. His industry knowledge, passion for safety and pride in guaranteeing customer satisfaction, makes him a key asset to the Valiant Energy team.

Christopher Tupper
Vice President of E&I

As the Vice President of Electrical and Instrumentation, Chris Tupper energetically leads and manages a diverse team of highly skilled and specialized Electricians and Technicians throughout a project lifecycle. Chris consistently and successfully promotes a collaborative climate where safety, communication and best practices are the cornerstone of our deliverables.
Chris has proven proficiencies in challenging industrial environments that include Nuclear, Petrochemical, Bio-Pharma and Power Generation Facilities. With his professional career of over 39 years, Chris uses his experiences to positively influence projects in the planning / implementation of scheduled outages and other logistical challenges. Additionally, Chris has been instrumental in coordinating asset recovery efforts in the event of unplanned shut-downs as occurred during Hurricane Sandy and it’s impact on the Mid-Atlantic Region.

Brandon Sterling
Sr. Director of Safety

As Sr. Director of Safety, Brandon Sterling is responsible for managing Valiant’s team of safety professionals. Additionally, Brandon ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local regulatory requirements. He embraces our proactive safety culture by incorporating Human Performance, Behavior Based Safety Principals, and utilizing data analytics.

Brandon graduated from Millersville University with a bachelor’s degree in Applied Geography and Environmental Hazards/Emergency Management. From there he has accumulated over 15 years of experience ranging from Electrical / Utility Safety, Industrial Safety, Highway Construction, Pharmaceuticals, State Correctional Institutions, and General Construction Safety.