Michael “Mike” Corless co-founded Penncara Energy, LLC, along with James Swistock in 1999. Responsible for the development of the financial and tax aspects of several large synthetic fuel ventures, Mike has assisted one particular client, AIG Financial Products, in the acquisition, relocation, and operation of six synthetic fuel facilities.

As a Certified Public Accountant, Mike has worked in complex tax planning for the energy industry, including tax credit energy projects, for over 40 years. He began his career at Coopers and Lybrand (now PricewaterhouseCoopers), advancing to senior tax manager and becoming a member of the firm's national energy tax consulting group. He was also a tax partner at a boutique firm before starting his own tax practice, Corless & Associates. 

Mike graduated magna cum laude from Saint Francis University (PA) in 1978 with a B.S. in Accounting and a B.S. in Economics. He later obtained a Master’s of Taxation from Robert Morris University. Mike has kept close ties to his alma mater, serving as Vice-Chair of the Business Advisory Board as well as becoming a member of the President's Council. He has also served as Board Chair of his children's school and treasurer of his church. Mike has worked with numerous charities over the years, including Make-A-Wish Foundation as well as a local childcare facility and nursing home in central Pennsylvania.