Who We Are

Verified Vendor

Established in 1995, Utility Pipeline, LTD (UPL) provides gas service to underserved geographic areas, such as lake communities, agricultural customers, new housing developments, and more. Through strategic business arrangements with natural gas cooperatives, local public utilities, local gas producers, and interstate pipeline companies, we have successfully brought service across Ohio, eastern Indiana, and western Pennsylvania. In 2016, we further expanded our geographical footprint, acquiring systems in Virginia and West Virginia. Currently, we provide natural gas service for nearly 60,000 end users.

From inception, we have taken great pride in our well-established reputation for quality. The work performed for our customers is upheld by the highest industry standards. Throughout the entire installation, commissioning, and reclamation processes, we work diligently to ensure all parties involved stay informed of construction timelines and project milestones.

Today, more than twenty years after formation, we actively continue to seek opportunities for growth within and around our existing footprint. With a collaborative, corporate approach, we work hard to create long term value for customers and maintain our position as the preferred provider of natural gas distribution services in Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.

 

Utility Pipeline, LTD is a natural gas distribution company and proud member of the following industry organizations:

 

Core Values

The Blue U

The Blue U signifies our unity. We value each of our unique contributions regardless of position or location. We believe that every employee plays a vital role in who we are and we strive to ensure that all have a voice that echoes with every success our company achieves. We support and encourage everyone to be his or her authentic self.

Safety

We will always act and perform in a manner that considers the safety of our customers and the communities we operate in above all other factors. We will strive to provide the highest level of service that understands the intrinsic value of human life and property.

Customer Focused

Our customers are at the center of everything we do. Every action we take must be aimed at doing the best job for them. We responsibly listen to our customers and take pride in providing them safe, reliable service.

Adaptability

We embrace change and are dedicated to continuously improving our skills, processes, and systems. By accepting new ideas, technologies, and being flexible, we create an environment that supports a sustainable future. 

Integrity

Integrity is the foundation of who we are and what we stand for. Integrity helps us build trust and respect among all of our business relationships. Integrity means that there is no gap between what we say and what we do, and there is continuity between our thoughts and actions. 

Accountability

We will always be accountable to each other, our customers, and our communities. We strive for openness and transparency in all we do. By holding ourselves and our team members to the highest standard, we can ensure that we provide our customers with exceptional service.

Enhancing Value

We must produce a profit, and we must generate superior returns on the assets entrusted to us by our shareholders. We will ensure our success by satisfying our customers and increasing shareholder value.

Management Team

Andrew Duckworth, President, 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, acquisitions, project development, finance, accounting, marketing, human resources, and information systems functions. 

Robert M. Wentzel Jr., Chief Construction Officer, has a degree in Mechanical Engineering with an emphasis on Welding Fabrication and Metallurgy. Bob joined UPL at its inception in 1995 as VP of Construction. Currently, he is responsible for all business development functions, including establishing partnerships with other utilities and local producers, maintaining relationships with builders and developers, as well as prospecting possible distribution asset acquisitions.  

Vanessa Hamilton, Executive VP Business Development, 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 and has been promoted up through the organization throughout the past 15 years. Currently, Vanessa is responsible for leading the organizational growth initiatives, seeking out potential distribution asset acquisitions, and business development opportunities in residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Vanessa also oversees all public relations and marketing operations in coordination with Customer Service & Field Operations. In 2017, Vanessa served as Chairman of the Ohio Gas Association and currently serves on the OGA Executive Board, Board of Trustees, and Scholarship Committees.

John Jessee, Chief Financial Officer - Southern Region, received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Emory & Henry College in 1983. John was with Price Waterhouse until 1989. From 1989 to 2009, he worked with firms whose primary investments were in the coal and natural gas industries. Prior to joining UPL, he was Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of ANGD, LLC from 2009 to 2016. He oversees the accounting, finance, and regulatory reporting functions for Appalachian Natural Gas Distribution Company and Cardinal Natural Gas Company. 

Diogenes “Dio” Herrera, Chief Operating Officer, received a Bachelor of Science degree in International Trade & Economics and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Georgia Southern University in 2009. Prior to joining UPL, he was Director of Operations for Appalachian Natural Gas Distribution Company and Bluefield Gas Company. He is responsible for the oversight of all new construction, regulatory compliance, distribution pipeline operations, and field personnel.

Christina Tippel, Billing Manager, 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 Billing Operations, which also includes coordination with Construction and Field Operations. 

Jodi King, Customer Service Manager, joined UPL in 2011. Prior to joining UPL, Jodi was a Scheduling Supervisor at Shared PET Imaging where she was responsible for the team scheduling patient PET/CT scans throughout the United States. She has many years of Supervisory and Customer Service experience. She is responsible for managing the Customer Service Team and acts as liaison with field operations staff.