Brian Mock

Brian Mock’s career at ACES is a testament to the value of flexibility, continuous learning, and embracing new challenges. Currently an Hourly Trader on the East Desk, Brian’s journey to this role has been anything but linear.

Brian began his career in a front office position on the trading floor of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, where he worked in various roles from runner to clerk, dealing with livestock, interest rates, currencies, and the S&P 500. This fast-paced environment fueled his passion for the trading world. After several years at ACES in a middle office position focused on portfolio valuation, Brian felt a pull back to the front lines. His current role involves dispatching plants and responding to directives from PJM to manage electricity capacity.

Reflecting on his 12 years at ACES, Brian values the support and teamwork within the company. “ACES is a great place to work, with low office politics and a common goal among coworkers. There’s satisfaction in our work, similar to seeing a freshly cut lawn,” he says. Brian appreciates how ACES allowed him to transition roles and learn new things, highlighting that career growth does not always mean climbing the ladder but sometimes stepping sideways to gain new perspectives.

Brian spent a couple of years as a high school math teacher. Although teaching was not the best fit, it was part of his varied career path. He holds an undergraduate degree from Colorado State and a graduate degree from Vanderbilt, both in economics. He also spent a summer abroad in Cairo, Egypt, where he learned valuable lessons in cultural and economic differences.

Outside work, Brian is a dedicated family man. He and his wife have two children, one of whom has graduated college and the other currently in college. The family enjoys vacationing, camping, and hiking, with Traverse City and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan being among their favorite destinations. Brian recalls a memorable trip when they kayaked and hiked along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Brian’s diverse experiences, from working in Portfolio Valuation to teaching high school math and now being an hourly trader at ACES, underscore his adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges. He finds satisfaction in the daily tasks of his current role, despite the time pressures and complexities involved.

Brian offers valuable advice for new or future ACES employees: “If you’re struggling, ask questions. There’s a wealth of expertise here. Keep learning, try to improve, and don’t be afraid to try different roles. We all share the same goal: keeping the lights on.”

Brian Mock’s story encourages all to see career growth as a journey filled with opportunities for learning and development, whether it’s stepping up, sideways, or into a completely new area. His commitment to continuous improvement and teamwork makes him an invaluable asset to ACES.