Tim Michels, President
As President of ERG, Mr. Michels has directed energy conservation and alternative fuels designs and studies for Business, Industry, Institutions and Governmental Organizations. Research grants and contracts have lead to the development of a state-of-the-art Computer based Data Acquisition System, including all hardware and software design. ERG has developed a variety of software tools for sale that are used for energy conservation and solar analyses and for utility bill analyses.
Multiple grants and contracts have lead to the development of low-cost passive solar adobe home designs for a Native American Tribe under the HUD HOME Grant and to economic development opportunities and enterprises for multiple tribes.
Over the years, Mr. Michels has developed a variety of appropriate technologies, building designs, and economic development plans to meet the needs of economically disadvantaged populations.
Aaron Michels, Director of Operations
Aaron Michels began work with Energy Resources Group beginning in the mid-90s, assisting with building energy audits and designing alternative energy calculators for biogas production. After a long hiatus working on other facets of environmental sustainability, he returned to St. Louis and ERG in 2013. Aaron’s experience includes non-profit operations, sustainable agriculture, waste reduction and management (composting), ecovillage development and governance, alternative fuels, and the integration of international wildlife conservation and ecotourism. Aaron also has a background in communications as a documentary and educational media producer.
He is responsible for ERG’s communications, databases, and the development of internal energy-auditing tools in addition to his role as an analyst. He is closely tracking and has been very involved with the roll-out of the Building Energy Performance Standard (BEPS) in the City of St. Louis.
Dennis Strubberg, Senior Technician
Dennis brings 25+ years practical experience in facility operations, maintenance, budgeting, renovation and construction to the commissioning field. With his background in healthcare and other building types, he has acquired extensive experience with an expansive field of equipment, from simple residential systems to complex multi structure hydronic systems with central plants. Dennis is fluent with CMMS systems, BAS equipment, and continuous commissioning, and brings the owners representative side to the commissioning table, with an understanding of budget restraints and the important real-life benefits of the commissioning process.
At ERG, Dennis is responsible for controls review and programming, inspection of equipment in on-site, specification of replacement equipment, and system design review.
Paul A. Faust, VP – Director of Engineering
Mr. Faust started his work in engineering in high school working on mechanical contracting projects in the family business. He eventually worked up to President and CEO for a design-build mechanical contracting company. In this capacity he personally managed and directed multimillion dollar projects with an excess of 100 tradesmen involved, developing in-depth knowledge of the construction industry and related trades and tradesmen relations, construction industry law and litigation and government contracting.
In the mid-80s, Paul’s focus changed to design engineering. His engineering firm provided design and client construction management services for mechanical engineering services across the country. During this period Paul also designed and patented applications for an advanced, highly efficient hybrid air/water cooled condensing units and medical waste disinfection units.
Recently, Paul has been a principal and an integral part of the Energy Resources Group, Inc. team, working on projects in energy auditing, retrofit/new construction design, project management/field implementation, and building commissioning.
Ashok Gidwani, Director of Business Development, Pittsburgh, PA
Ashok Gidwani is a visionary entrepreneur, environmental advocate, and pioneering engineer whose career spans over five decades at the intersection of sustainability, technology, and global impact. With degrees in Mechanical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, and an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh, Mr. Gidwani has dedicated his professional life to advancing energy efficiency and renewable technologies around the world. His work has consistently bridged technical excellence with business innovation, influencing how energy systems are designed, deployed, and optimized across continents.
Beginning his career as a mechanical engineer on India’s first nuclear power plant project with Bechtel, Gidwani later joined Westinghouse Electric, where he supported major automotive clients like Ford and General Motors. In the 1970s and 80s, he turned his focus to international solar development with EBARA Solar, spearheading solar projects across Africa and helping to establish a solar panel assembly plant in Pennsylvania. This global experience laid the foundation for his future ventures, blending sustainable design with practical implementation.
As the founder of CFI Associates and Lavalux Inc., Gidwani became a prominent force in the American green technology landscape. He introduced energy-efficient HVAC solutions and LED lighting systems that dramatically reduced electricity and natural gas use for commercial and industrial clients. His specialty in engineering solar farms, energy storage solutions, and innovative lighting applications continues to influence sustainable infrastructure development. Today, Ashok Gidwani remains a passionate advocate for environmental responsibility, driven by a lifelong mission to empower communities through clean, efficient energy solutions.
Chris Villella, Project Manager, Pittsburgh PA
Chris Villella is a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader with over 30 years of experience across construction, real estate, healthcare, and manufacturing. Known for his hands-on leadership style and unwavering commitment to quality, Chris has consistently driven operational excellence while building a diverse portfolio of successful ventures. His work is guided by a passion for innovation, sustainability, and creating long-term value—especially in unlocking renewable energy potential for commercial and industrial clients.
Chris began his career as an operating engineer with Beaver Valley Builders Supply, contributing to major infrastructure projects such as the Shippingport Nuclear Facility and Pittsburgh International Airport. He later founded LynMark Properties, a real estate holding company known for its sustainable practices and high-performance commercial developments. In the healthcare space, he owned and operated Elderberry Court, a licensed assisted living facility, where he brought compassionate, high-quality care to the community.
From 2006 to 2021, Chris served as the Owner and CEO of S&S Fasteners Inc., an internationally recognized industrial fastener manufacturer serving industries from highways and bridges to submarines and green buildings. He specializes in identifying operational efficiencies, reducing waste, and solving complex production challenges through objective analysis and strategic planning. With expertise in project management, cost control, and facility maintenance, Chris continues to champion clean energy solutions and industrial innovation to build a greener and more resilient economy.
Andrew StClair, Energy Analyst
Coming Soon…
At ERG, Andrew works on benchmarking and compliance with St. Louis City ordinances around energy use and reporting. He is also our IT specialist.
