Paragon energy Leadership Team

Ron Hickie

President

Ron W. Hickie is the President of Paragon Energy. His primary responsibility is to provide outstanding service to the nuclear, petrochemical and other critical infrastructure clients by creating an organization that people want to work for and with.

Fresh out of college Ron began his career in the security industry as a nuclear security officer at Yankee Atomic Electric Company. In less than ten years he was the Project Manager at an operating nuclear power plant and continued to work his way up from there. In 2009 Ron stepped into the role of Region President for the Securitas Energy Services Sector, a predecessor to the current Paragon Energy Sector. Under his leadership, Paragon Energy has become the forefront in providing security services to highly regulated industry clients throughout the United States.

Darrell Williams

Area Vice President

As an Area Vice President (AVP) for Paragon Energy, Darrell is responsible for the day-to-day management at operating nuclear plants throughout the United States. Prior to his role as AVP, Darrell served as a Project Manager at the Comanche Peak Nuclear Plant in Glen Rose, TX. Darrell’s background and experience from ground level operations to the management ranks at several operating nuclear plants are essential to our management team.

Prior to entering the nuclear industry, Darrell served in the United States Army for nearly 18 years. Ending his career as a Company Operations Manager where he was responsible for managing the daily training schedule and conducting professional development courses for over 160 soldiers. Darrell received numerous awards and decorations during his service, including being awarded the Meritorious Service Medal twice.

Darrell is a graduate of Excelsior University.

Brian Copperthite, Sr.

Area Vice President

Brian joined the Energy management team following nearly thirty years of nuclear security site management at both Vermont Yankee and Connecticut Yankee Nuclear Power Plants. In his roles, Brian was recognized as the subject matter expert for human performance issues and regulatory issues in security. In addition, he served as a liaison to the Emergency Planning Department and local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. Brian’s extensive experience in the daily security functions of both operating and decommissioned nuclear plants makes him an invaluable asset to both Paragon and our clients.

Prior to his career in the civilian security industry, Brian served in the United States Air Force as a Security Policeman where he was responsible for the Security Police Training Program and later the Quality Assurance Program. In addition, he was an active member of the Emergency Services Team where he supported both Air Force and political VIP protection in support of U.S. Secret Service. Brian received numerous awards and decorations while serving which include Global War on Terrorism medal, two Air Force Achievement Medals, Air Force Commendation Medal and Air Force Meritorious Service Medal.

Brian’s dedication to the Security Industry extends outside the office as an active member in the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS), International Foundation for Protective Officers, and the Air Force Security Forces Association. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Excelsior College, is a Certified Physical Security Professional (PSP) and is currently pursuing his Certified Protection Professional (CPP) certification.

Skyler Teigen

Operations Manager

Skyler was promoted into Paragon Energy’s Operations Manager role, following four years as a Project Manager at Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant and Beaver Valley Power Station. Skyler is well versed with a variety of high level operational experience in nuclear security. He has effectively managed reduction in force efforts as part of DNP initiatives, improved safety and human performance standards, and has proven success at managing labor relations while working to implement policies aimed at reducing attrition and unscheduled absences to address daily staffing operations.

Skyler’s nuclear security career began at the ground level over ten years ago, serving as an officer at Point Beach Nuclear Plant. His continued ability to demonstrate effective responses to operational needs and a keen focus on service excellence led to his progression through the ranks on shift and eventually into the role of Operations Supervisor at Prairie Island Nuclear Plant. With over ten years of progressive nuclear security experience, including assignment at four different plants providing service to three different utilities, Skyler brings broad industry experience and a comprehensive understanding of nuclear security operations to the team.

Skyler is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.