The Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA), a national organization that represents more than sixty prominent firms and organizations, announced today that Frank Wolak has been named President and Chief Executive Officer, beginning September 3, 2021.
Mr. Wolak will succeed Morry Markowitz, who is stepping down after a ten-year tenure. Mr. Wolak was previously the Board Chair of FCHEA and worked as Senior Vice President for Government Affairs and Market Development at FuelCell Energy, Inc., a long-time FCHEA member.
Mr. Wolak conceived and built some of the world’s most inventive and largest fuel cell technology applications during his time at FuelCell Energy, and worked directly with the US Department of Energy and Congress to define and support hydrogen and fuel cell initiatives. Mr. Wolak has been essential in developing state-level legislation to facilitate the expansion of the fuel cell and hydrogen markets, in addition to his corporate and federal triumphs.
“As the association and its members negotiate the mainstream of energy policy and markets, Frank’s considerable corporate, technical, and governmental relations background will be beneficial. We are ecstatic that Frank has agreed to take on this important leadership role “Andy Marsh, FCHEA Chair and CEO of Plug Power, Inc., expressed it best.
“The association is in wonderful hands with Frank, and I wish the future of hydrogen, fuel cell technology, and the industry tremendous success,” said outgoing FCHEA President Morry Markowitz.
Mr. Wolak made the following remark: “This is a vital juncture for hydrogen energy and fuel cell technology, which will play a key part in the global decarbonization effort. At this exciting time in the energy transition, I am pleased to have the opportunity to lead FCHEA and share my knowledge with our members.”
Mr. Wolak has over 30 years of experience in the energy industry, including executive positions at an international energy services company, a power development and investment company, a public energy resources corporation, and as a management consultant providing insight to clients in emerging technology and utility segments outside of the fuel cell industry.
Frank is a founding member of the Connecticut Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Coalition, the former Chair of the California Stationary Fuel Cell Collaborative, a Governor appointee to the New Jersey Fuel Cell Task Force, and a two-term member of the Secretary of Commerce’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Advisory Committee.
