Meet The Above Par Network Cabinet

 Behind the scenes of the greatest business network

A Fresh, New Way of NETWORKING!

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No Red Tape

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No Politics

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No Happy-Talking Bullshitters

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Engaging Events Focused on Building Strong Relationships

Above Par Network Cabinet Members

Our Cabinet Members are the heart of Above Par Network, bringing leadership, expertise, and passion to every event and initiative. These dedicated individuals help shape APN’s direction, ensuring that our members benefit from meaningful connections, professional growth, and a supportive community. Each Cabinet Member plays a vital role in creating opportunities for collaboration, mentoring, and success within our network. Get to know the faces behind APN and learn how their commitment drives our mission forward.

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Frank L. Stirpe, Jr.

Founder & CEO

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Frank L. Stirpe Jr. was born and raised in Syracuse, NY. He holds a BA in History from Le Moyne College, a Master’s in Curriculum and Design from Arizona State University, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. With a diverse professional background, Frank has experience as a classroom teacher and went on to become a nationally recognized middle school and high school principal. He now serves as the Director of Operations and Community Development for 19 charter schools across Arizona, Nevada, California, and Texas.

In January 2019, Frank founded Above Par Network (APN) with the vision of redefining the networking experience. He believes that people are both our greatest asset and challenge and that the smartest person in the room is often the room itself—emphasizing the value of surrounding oneself with great people. Frank moved to Arizona in September 2006 and now splits his time between Arizona and Myrtle Beach, SC, where APN is launching its second chapter.

Karin Gadberry

Breakfast of Champions Director

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Karin is the Director of Business Development and Sales at DeBellevue Global Marketing Agency. After a successful career in college athletics for 17 years, she retired to work at the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce for two years before accepting a position with DeBellevue. Collegiately she coached softball at the NCAA D1, D2 and also NAIA while also spending time in administration including time as an Athletic Director across her tenure at 5 Institutions. Collegiately she played at Southeastern Louisiana University and was inducted into the SLU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2019.

“I love working with the business community and helping solve challenges businesses face. We love to help grow and develop relationships both locally and globally. I am excited to work with the APN members and help in connecting the business community”. Karin has resided in Mesa with her husband Alex and son AJ since 2017. 

Jeff Breid

APN Elevate

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Jeff Breid is an ASE Certified Master Automotive Technician with over three decades of experience in the automotive industry, having started his career at the age of 18 in 1992. Currently, he serves as the Chief Operating Officer and Owner Operator of CarLife Auto Repair, where his leadership has consistently driven both teams to success. Jeff is dedicated to technician education and ensures that the company utilizes the latest tools and technology available. During his ten years with CarLife, he has trained countless technicians, making a significant impact not only within the organization but also across the entire industry. Outside of work, Jeff has been happily married to his wonderful wife, Heidi, for 25 years, and together they have two incredible and talented children.

Jän Simon

Network Insurance & APN Podcast

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Jän Simon is the Owner of Foundation Insurance Services, a Robertson Ryan & Associates agency, where he has proudly served clients for the past six years. With nearly 30 years in the insurance industry, Jän has built a reputation grounded in honesty, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to doing what’s right—even when no one is watching. These core values guide his personal and professional life and are the foundation on which he helps others grow.

A dedicated community leader, Jän has been an engaged member of the Gilbert community since 2003 and became actively involved in 2014 through the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce. His passion for civic engagement quickly grew as he joined the Public Policy Committee, graduated from Gilbert Leadership Class XXIV, and went on to serve in numerous leadership roles. He served on the Chamber’s Board of Directors and Executive Board, is a Past Chair of both the Chamber Board and Gilbert Leadership Board, and has played a key role in strengthening the Gilbert Leadership Alumni Program. Jän also served on the East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance (EVCCA) Board, the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of Arizona Board, the Board of Gilbert Talks, and is in his sixth year serving on the Town of Gilbert’s Planning and Zoning Commission, including two years as Chair.

In 2025, Jän launched the podcast Above & Beyond: Where Excellence Meets Elevation, a platform where he interviews business owners, community leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs to explore the stories, values, and motivations that fuel their success. Through this endeavor—as well as in every aspect of his work—Jän continues his mission to uplift others, build stronger businesses, and foster meaningful connections within his community.

Eric W Reber

Network Igniter / Onboarding Specialist

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Eric is President of AIS Enterprises Inc. and Owner of SpeedPro Mesa-Gilbert.  They specialize in premium, large format digital graphics for signs, banners, retractable banner stands, vehicle wraps, wall and window graphics, and much more. 

Eric has 26 years of transportation and logistics management background where he held leadership positions in operations, project management, and strategic development. He graduated from the University of Toledo with a BA in business administration and is a certified Six Sigma Green Belt and Lean Manufacturing Expert. After spending time in supply chain operations with large corporations, Eric decided to utilize his corporate experience towards the challenge of owning a new business. SpeedPro was everything he was looking for in terms of operating a business; exemplary service, building strong customer relationships, producing top quality products, and offering a product that will help others build their businesses. High resolution impact graphics provided the opportunity for him to fulfill his drive and passion in helping customers create solutions that visually attract.  He has owned and operated SpeedPro Mesa-Gilbert for 12 years

Eric has been married to his wife Mary-Jane for 40 years.  He has one daughter Kristen who is a graduate of NAU and currently works for Pinal Juvenile Probation Office.  He has a yellow lab named Sydney and a chocolate lab named Shelby.  Eric likes cooking, bbq, creating micro-brews, traveling and motorcycle riding.  Big fan of Ohio State Buckeye Football.  Volunteers at Midwest Food Bank.

Andrew John

APN Elevate

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Andrew John grew up working alongside his father, fixing AC systems on rooftops and in attics. The HVAC trade is truly in Andrew’s DNA, and he officially joined John’s Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing at the age of 16. After his father retired, Andrew took over the company, continuing the family’s legacy of dedicated community service.

Andrew is passionate about maintaining his dad’s philosophy of “putting customer service first.” He believes in building relationships with customers, team members, and vendors rooted in honesty and integrity. His guiding motto, “Do It The Right Way – No Matter What,” shapes every aspect of John’s Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing.

Andrew takes immense pride in his team’s accomplishments and has worked hard to foster a culture of empowerment where every employee can thrive. His commitment to investing in his team has resulted in exceptional service and loyal customers. Over the past few years, John’s Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing has more than doubled in size, with low employee turnover and numerous opportunities for career development.

Andrew is actively involved in the community, contributing to several organizations and initiatives. His achievements include:

  • Businessman of the Year 2020, Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
  • Gilbert Chamber Board of Directors, 2019
  • BBB Advisory Committee Member, since 2016
  • Board Member for the Air Conditioning Class at EVIT
  • Graduate, Gilbert Leadership Class 22
  • Chair of the Ambassador Committee, Gilbert Chamber

Company Recognition

Under Andrew’s leadership, John’s Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing has received numerous awards:

  • 2018-2024 Voted Best of Mesa (7 consecutive years)
  • 2020-2024 Voted Best of the Best (5 consecutive years)
  • 2023 Reader’s Choice – Best of Chandler
  • 2021 Best of Lovin’ Life After 50
  • 2017 Mid-Sized Business of the Year – Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
  • 2015 Nominated Best Place to Work – Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
  • 2014 Business of the Year – Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
  • 2013 Family Business of the Year – Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
  • 2013 Quality Home Comfort Award – Contracting Business
  • 2011 Technical Excellence Contractor of the Year – NCI

Leticia Barwick

Director of APN Cigar Club / CC Processing

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Leticia Barwick is the dynamic owner of Meritim Credit Card Processing, a leading provider of payment processing solutions. With an impressive 36 years of experience in the industry, she has built a reputation as an expert dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service, competitive pricing, and dependable 24/7 support. Originally hailing from Los Angeles, Leticia has made Phoenix, Arizona her home for the past 20 years, where she has successfully operated Meritim and cultivated a loyal client base throughout the region. Her steadfast commitment to customer satisfaction and service excellence has positioned her as a respected leader in the credit card processing sector.

Leticia’s entrepreneurial spirit is fueled by her passion for helping businesses thrive, and she continuously seeks innovative ways to enhance her services and support her clients.

Julia Reed

Cabinet Secretary

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Julia Reed was born and raised in Southern California and holds her Bachelor’s degree in History Teaching and her masters degree in Educational Leadership. She has worked as a high school history teacher and is currently serving a secondary school administrator in the East Valley of Arizona. She has a passion for people, education and organization.
She is married with three sons. Her oldest son is starting his college coursework, the middle son is a senior in high school and the youngest started kindergarten this year. Her husband, James Reed operates an optometry practice, Reed’s Eye Care in Mesa. In her free time she enjoys traveling, hiking, snow sports and spending quality time with family.

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