Seasoned Innovators
Our team
Co-Founder
Orion Bailey
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.
Co-Founder
Elmer Hickman
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.
President
Gil Berry
Gil Berry is a distinguished leader whose personal journey exemplifies the belief that anyone can achieve success in the United States. Starting with just $500, he built a multi-million dollar business and has spent the past 30 years enhancing the lives of citizens in public housing through his extensive involvement in HUD regulations.
As the President of Gil Berry and Associates (GBA), a HUD Section 3 and Minority-owned Business, Gil has established a national reputation for improving the economic viability of lower-income citizens across the United States. GBA's impressive track record includes representing over 50,000 HUD housing residents in New Jersey, Maryland, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania. A notable achievement is the groundbreaking Glen Hazel Lofts project, the first of its kind where residents own 51% of the facility, setting a precedent in public housing.
Gil has accomplished multiple Notable Projects including, the Glen Hazel Senior Lofts, Pittsburgh, the Hurricane Matthew Recovery Leadership, the Streets of South Pointe, Durham, North Carolina.
Berry is also well regarded for his leadership and advocacy including roles as the Regional Director, National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC), Founder, City of Pittsburgh’s Minority Business Program and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s Minority Business Development Program, HUD Executive Leadership and Economic Development Officer, NAACP, State of Pennsylvania.
Gil Berry’s enduring legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to driving out poverty and leading the way to prosperity in America. Through his innovative projects and leadership, he continues to champion economic development and minority business growth, making a lasting impact on communities nationwide.
Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder
Rita Jankouzian
Rita is a CEO with a passion for creating circular and sustainable solutions for the waste management and green energy industry, bringing a unique perspective to the business world. With a deep commitment to sustainability and clean energy, Rita propels Orion Power to the forefront, leading by example.
At the core of her approach lies a strong focus on non-disruptive solutions that pave the way for a greener future. Rita's visionary leadership guides the company to embrace the development of innovative technologies that harness renewable energy sources, reducing the carbon footprint of businesses and individuals alike.
Rita Jankouzian is a graduate of the renowned USC Marshall School of Business, Rita holds the positions of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as well as co-owner, at BJ Used Tire & Rubber Recycling, Inc. and Rubber Recovery, Inc. These distinguished recycling companies have been at the forefront of tire and rubber recycling in southern California for over two decades.
Rita's path to leadership began with a foundation in the legal field. Prior to her role at BJ Tire Recycling, she honed her skills at prestigious law firms in southern California. Building on that experience, Rita transitioned to the financial sector, where she excelled as a licensed financial advisor at Smith Barney and later, Merrill Lynch.
In addition to her achievements in recycling and finance, Rita has successfully ventured into real estate, expertly building a notable portfolio for her family over the past decade. Her strategic investment acumen has solidified her reputation as a skilled entrepreneur.
Rita expanded her ventures by opening multiple The UPS Store locations in southern California.
Rita's dedication extends beyond the business realm, as she maintains strong ties to her community. Residing in southern California with her supportive husband and three children, she actively engages in fundraising efforts for schools and churches, utilizing her leadership skills to chair numerous successful events. Her commitment to giving back underscores her role as both a leader and a philanthropist.
With Rita's leadership, Orion Power navigates the complex energy landscape with confidence and insight. Her ability to identify opportunities, navigate challenges, and steer the company towards sustainable growth ensures that Orion Power will make a meaningful impact on the world of renewable energy.
Chief Science Officer & Co-Founder
Dr Latif Mahjoob
As Chief Science Officer 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.
Latif's 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. His commitment to creating a sustainable future for our planet is evident in his dedication to research and development, as well as his involvement in various environmental organizations.
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. Here, he converts natural gas or Pyro gas into liquid fuel using Fischer-Tropsch and Electron Beam methods.
Before founding American Renewable Technologies, Inc., Dr. Mahjoob was the President of American Combustion Technologies, Inc. in Paramount, California. He designed and marketed Super Low Emission burners meeting below 9 PPM NOx - the best technology available in the USA. He was also involved in designing and implementing waste conversion systems for materials like rubber, plastic, and sludge to liquid or gaseous fuels.
Dr. Mahjoob has held other senior positions in various companies, including Dixon Boiler Works, where he was the President. He also worked at Arian Engineering & Combustion Systems, Inc. in Normal, Illinois, as the President. Here, he provided multi-disciplined engineering services, including environmental services, to the process, manufacturing, and other industries. Latif led teams of over 400 employees.
Before that, he was the Director of Engineering, Research & Development, and Industrial Engineering at Kewanee Boiler Company in Kewanee, Illinois. At this company, he managed three departments and designed three-pass wetback boilers, low-emission burners, heat exchangers, superheaters, and condensers. He was also the Director of Engineering, Research & Development at Johnston Boiler Company in Ferrysburg, Michigan, where he designed boilers, fluidized bed combustion technology, and multipurpose burners.
Dr. Mahjoob began his career at Cleaver Brooks Division of Aqua-Chem, Inc. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he was a Research Project Manager. Here, he designed burners, boilers, and combustion systems and applied for and obtained at least 16 combustion and technology-related patents.
Dr. Mahjoob is also an accomplished researcher and author, having published numerous papers on combustion and environmental topics. Some of his publications include "An Experimental Investigation of the Effects of Flue Gas Recirculation on NOx Formation," "A General View of NOx Reduction Technologies," "The Basic Concept of Low Excess Air Burner Design," "Particulate, NOx, and SOx Emissions from Firetube Boilers," "Investigation of Different Convective Flow Modes in Tilting Enclosures of Small Aspect Ratios," "Integral and Numerical Analysis of Free Convection Problems," and "Study of Combustion as a Turbulent Flow."
In addition to his academic qualifications, Dr. Mahjoob has also earned several certifications, including Level One, Level Two, and Level Three Radiography, Emission from Stationary Sources, and Applied Combustion Technology. Currently, Dr. Mahjoob serves as Orion Power’s Chief Science Officer as one of the worlds' leading inventors and scientists specializing in gas to liquid fuel technologies, converting natural gas or Pyro gas into liquid fuel using Fischer-Tropsch and Electron Beam methods. Dr. Mahjoob's extensive experience and expertise make him a valuable asset to the waste management and green energy industry.
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.
Chief Financial Officer & Co-Founder
Chris Cheung
Chris is a seasoned finance executive with over 20 years of experience in accounting, finance, operations, and strategy. His expertise has been honed through leadership positions in startups to multi-billion dollar companies in various industries, including wagering, sports, and entertainment. Chris has helped stand up several multi-billion dollar companies around the world for Tabcorp Holdings Ltd (Australia, UK, Isle of Man, USA), including his last role as CFO of Playup USA, which valued at $450m. Chris has a strong background in internal and external audit, internal controls and corporate governance.
As the CFO in the waste management and green energy industry, he brings his financial expertise to the table in order to turn business dreams into monetization reality. He has a proven track record of developing financial strategies that drive growth and profitability, while maintaining a focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
In addition to his finance and accounting background, Chris is also a trained psycho-spiritual integrative advisor, and creator of a new groundbreaking therapy called Emotional Kung Fu TM. This unique combination of skills allows him to bring a holistic approach to his work as CFO, considering both the financial and emotional well-being of the company and its employees.
Chris's breakthroughs include developing innovative financial models that support the growth of the company's green energy and waste management solutions. He is committed to finding creative ways to finance sustainable expansion that creates value for the environment and society as a whole.
Chief Operating Officer
Thomas Cutting
Thomas is a seasoned entrepreneur and software engineer who has made significant contributions to the waste management and green energy industry. As the COO of Orion Power, he brings a wealth of experience in building and scaling technology-driven businesses.
Thomas has co-founded and led multiple tech companies, including SmashByte, AcquireCrowd, Backslash Digital, Reserve Tech, and Thrame. Through these ventures, he has honed his expertise in user acquisition, digital marketing, and growth hacking. He applies these skills to Orion Power, helping the company to build and grow its customer base and expand its reach.
At Orion Power, Thomas is responsible for developing and implementing operational strategies that drive growth and profitability, while maintaining a focus on data science and environmental responsibility. He works closely with the CEO and the rest of the team to ensure that the company's solutions are innovative, effective, and environmentally friendly.
Thomas's experience in the tech industry has given him a unique perspective on the waste management and green energy industry. He recognizes the potential for technology-driven solutions to create a more sustainable future and is committed to leveraging his expertise to make a positive impact.
In addition to his work with Orion Power, Thomas is also an advocate for environmental sustainability and social responsibility. He believes that businesses have a responsibility to contribute to the greater good and is dedicated to using his talents and resources to make a difference in the world.
Senior Advisor
Gorton Vallely
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.