Our Team

Bryan Zaplitny, President/CEO

Bryan Zaplitny is the incorporator and creative force behind CGE Energy, and has been involved in every aspect of the business since its inception. Zaplitny’s studies have included industrial management, energy management, business law, accounting, and marketing. He has worked extensively with municipalities, schools, businesses, and individuals in Michigan to bring them viable energy savings.

Harold Telners, CPA, Chief Financial Officer

Telners formed Accounting & Tax Services, Inc. (ATS) — one of Southeast Michigan’s most diversified accounting firms — in 1986. After selling his practice in 2016, he joined CGE Energy, Inc. as Chief Financial Officer. Telners holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Gary Westerholm, Vice President of Finance, Chairman of the Board

Gary Westerholm is a Michigan certified public accountant, and established the certified public accounting firm Gary Westerholm CPA, PC in 1981 before he co-founded McKenzie Bay International Ltd in 1996. He served as President of that company from 1999 to October 2005. Westerholm holds a Bachelor of Science degree with honors in Accounting from Davenport University.

Mark A. Cecil, Chief Operating Officer, Treasurer

Prior to joining CGE, Mark A. Cecil was responsible for strategic planning, performance reporting, and field technology for Washington National Insurance Company, a subsidiary of CNO Financial Group. Cecil served more than 20 years in the United States Navy and Navy Reserve before retiring from service in 2005 with the rank of Commander. Cecil holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Missouri State University, and earned both an M.B.A. degree and a M.S. in Accounting from the University of Missouri.

Paul Schneider, Vice President of Marketing, Secretary

Previously, Paul Schneider was Owner and Creative Director of Rock Solid Creative Studios, a marketing agency in Wausau, Wisconsin. Schneider studied marketing and design at Madison Media Institute, and his expertise involves marketing, branding, video production, web design, and print design. Schneider has received multiple awards and national recognition for his work.

Richard Bearup, Vice President of Lighting Division

Richard Bearup is an energy auditor with 30-years of experience. Bearup has worked for multiple utility service companies in Michigan as an energy consultant. He gained certification as an energy auditor through Michigan State University. Bearup is currently overseeing the design and evaluation of energy efficient lighting systems for CGE Energy projects.

Gary Zaplitny, Vice President of Field Services

Gary Zaplitny has been with CGE Energy since the company’s energy management and lighting roots in 1989. Zaplitny has extensive experience in auditing facilities for energy saving opportunities along with water and gas savings. Zaplitny studied business management at Detroit College of Business. At present, Zaplitny oversees all field operations including CGE Energy’s audits, project installations, and the service of the company’s CGE Protect maintenance customers.

Kevin Cook

Kevin Cook has nearly 30 years of diverse energy experience, having worked in the utility, government, and private sectors. As a graduate of Michigan State University, Cook holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering and Building Construction Management. Cook has been responsible for developing and managing energy efficiency programs while under contract with ten midwestern utilities, and has worked with the State Energy Office as an energy management consultant for Rebuild Michigan.

Craig Hancock

Craig Hancock is the founder of Hancock & Associates in Grand Rapids, MI. The firm specializes in helping design investment strategies for high net worth individuals, as well as the pension and profit sharing plans for small business, or the management of foundations. Hancock has been in business since 1987 after graduating from Appalachian State University with a degree in Business Administration and a Certified Financial Planner degree in 1994. Hancock also serves on the board of directors for several non profit organizations.

Michael Pollakowski

Michael Pollakowski is the President/CEO of Reliant Financial Services, Inc., the largest independent provider of retirement plans and services in Kansas and Missouri, serving over 19,000 clients with over 500 million dollars of assets under management. Pollakowski is also an owner and the President of Tri-Star Systems, Inc., and is a managing member of TMG Growth Advisors. Previous president and board memberships include the Metropolitan Community Colleges Foundation and National Tax Sheltered Account Association (NTSAA).

William Naubert

William Naubert is a retired teacher and administrator who served the Dearborn Heights school community for 35 years. His distinguished career included service as a teacher, counselor, coach, and administrator. He twice directed nationally recognized programs in both career and outdoor education. Naubert holds a B.S. in Education with majors in math, science, and English. He completed two masters at Wayne State, one in Guidance and Counseling, and the other in Instructional Technology. Naubert earned his Ed Specialist degree in administration from WSU. He has been married to his wife, Camille for more than 33 years, and is the proud father of triplets.