LEADERSHIP

James Collins
CEO

As President of Valiant Energy Service, Jim brings invaluable industry knowledge and experience to the organization. He oversees the daily operations of the electrical construction team, demonstrating his commitment as an engaging, hands-on leader who is dedicated to fostering alignment among all stakeholders.

Jim graduated from Mansfield University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and completed his journeyman lineman training through the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. With 30 years of hands-on experience in constructing and maintaining transmission, substation, and distribution systems, Jim is also an active member of the NECA Northeast Line Board of Directors, as well as several committees focused on apprentice training and safety.

Thomas A. Tacconelli
President and COO

Tom brings over twenty-three years of electrical construction experience, specializing in the oversight, management, and sponsorship of large distribution and transmission projects across the United States. He completed his journeyman lineman training through the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and is an active member of NECA. Additionally, Tom serves as the Secretary of the NEAT Apprenticeship Board for Local Union 126, IBEW, and actively participates in various safety committees.

Matt Turner
VP of Operations

Matthew Turner is an accomplished utility operations executive with over 23 years of progressive experience in the Transmission, Distribution, and Substation sectors. Matt has extensive expertise in leading outage-driven utility projects, operational strategy, logistics, and multi-project oversight for major utilities and infrastructure programs. Over his career, Matt has consistently demonstrated the ability to manage complex, high-value projects from bid through completion, including labor management, union coordination, budgeting, and client relations.

Matt is also recognized for developing proactive safety cultures and fostering leadership talent across all organizational levels. He has a proven track record in driving operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and continuous business growth, and is highly experienced in emergency storm restoration leadership with a comprehensive suite of technical certifications and hands-on field knowledge in T&D construction practices, safety protocols, and industry regulations.

Ronald Fagan
VP of Estimating & Project Management

Ron Fagan is a results-driven utility services executive with over 40 years of comprehensive experience in transmission, distribution, and project management. Ron currently serves as Vice President of Estimating & Project Management at Valiant Energy Service, with a career distinguished by progressive leadership roles spanning operations management, project estimating, construction oversight, and workforce development. Ron has proven the ability to manage large-scale utility projects, oversee estimating processes, and lead cross-functional teams to deliver safe, on-budget, and on-schedule outcomes. He also holds extensive experience in client relations, operational resource management, revenue forecasting, and safety program implementation. Ron’s educational background includes an A.S. and B.S. in Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology from Penn State University and advanced project management training from Drexel University. Ron is consistently recognized for building strong customer partnerships, fostering a positive and safety-focused work environment, and driving operational excellence across utility services operations.

Megan Searfoss
Storm Director & VP Business Development

Megan Searfoss serves as Vice President of Business Development and Business Director of the Emergency Response Division at Valiant Energy Service. With over 11 years of experience in the energy industry—and eight of those years dedicated to Valiant—Megan brings a deep understanding of the industry and a proven track record of strategic growth and operational leadership.

Throughout her tenure, Megan has held roles across nearly every department within the company. This hands-on experience has equipped her with a comprehensive skill set and a unique perspective that enhances both her leadership and customer service skills and capabilities. Megan is also highly proficient in industry-standard systems and tools, with a strong focus on delivering excellence in client documentation and service. Her broad expertise and commitment to excellence continue to help drive the success of Valiant’s emergency response services and long-term client partnerships.

Jacob Struss
Assistant VP & Program Manager

Jacob Struss brings over seven years of progressive experience in the utility and energy services sector, currently serving as Assistant Vice President and Program Manager at Valiant Energy Service, LLC. Throughout his tenure at Valiant, he has held leadership roles including Director of Project Management and Project Manager, showcasing a consistent trajectory of increased responsibility and influence.  With a strong foundation in project lifecycle management, he has overseen the planning, execution, financial tracking, and closeout of substation, distribution, and transmission utility
projects, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and delivering high client satisfaction. His expertise spans project estimation, schedule development, budgeting, technical proposal preparation, and risk mitigation, underpinned by effective communication and strategic leadership. Jakes’ experience combines operational oversight, financial stewardship, and cross-functional collaboration to drive successful infrastructure projects, making him a valuable asset in the energy and utilities industry.

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.