Growing with Purpose: Welcoming Gavin Stephens to Delmarva Veteran Builders

At Delmarva Veteran Builders, We weren’t just looking to fill a sales role. We were looking for the right kind of person. Someone who understands this area. Someone who knows what hard work actually looks like. Someone with conviction, humility, and GRIT that has been earned, not claimed.

That’s why we’re proud to welcome Gavin Stephens to Delmarva Veteran Builders in a Sales and Development role as we continue to grow across the Eastern Shore.

A Natural Fit for DVB

Before officially joining the team, Gavin had already heard the same thing about DVB: great culture, great people, and a team that works hard but genuinely enjoys what they do.

“That’s what drew me in,” Gavin shared. “Every person I talked to said the same thing. It’s a place that values relationships, creativity, and getting the job done the right way.”

Culture matters here and so does the mission. While Gavin is not a veteran himself, DVB’s commitment to the veteran community resonates deeply with him. His father and both of his in-laws served in the military, including a retired Navy Master Diver and an AWACS aircraft specialist. That legacy of service gives him a personal appreciation for DVB’s foundation and long-term vision.

Expanding Our Reach Across Delmarva

Gavin brings experience on the electrical supply side of the industry, where he worked closely with residential, commercial, and industrial contractors. He built strong relationships with electricians, HVAC professionals, general contractors, and trade partners across multiple counties.

More importantly, he is from here.

“I’ve lived, worked, and played on the Shore my entire life,” he said. “This is home. I’m excited to expand the relationships I already have and help grow new ones in areas we’re continuing to reach.”

His territory mindset supports DVB’s strategic expansion into Dorchester, Talbot, Sussex, Kent, and Accomack counties, while strengthening our presence in Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset. This is thoughtful, relationship-driven expansion, and Gavin’s network and community roots position him well to help lead that effort.

GRIT in Action

Our tagline, Grit Leads to Greatness, is how we operate. When asked what GRIT means to him, Gavin did not hesitate.

“You don’t grow when you’re comfortable. Growth happens when you face hard things head-on. Even when you fall, you fall forward.”

He compares it to a running back pushing down the field, always moving forward, even when tackled. That mindset reflects the way we approach our work at DVB. It is the ability to adapt, persevere, and find a way to win, no matter the challenge or obstacle.

Invested in Community

Gavin’s commitment to Delmarva extends beyond business development.

He serves on the Board of Directors for Salisbury Neighborhood Housing Services and volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, supporting affordable housing initiatives throughout the region. He and his wife, Tori, who works with Junior Achievement, are raising their four children: 14-year-old Christian, four-year-old twins Tate and Laina, and one-year-old Maeve, right here in the community they serve.

For Gavin, this role is not just about sales. It is about building something meaningful in the place he calls home.

Building the Future Intentionally

As we continue to grow, we remain focused on the people behind the work. Gavin understands this region. He values relationships. And he brings the kind of steady GRIT that fits who we are at DVB.

We’re grateful to have him on the team and excited for what’s ahead!

Delmarva Veteran Builders Recognized as Accredited Quality Contractor by ABC Chesapeake Shores

DVB members from L-R Victor Hopkins, Sarah Selimo, Kathryn Ellis, Maci Bielfeldt, and Cory Bolduc accept AQC award from ABC Chesapeake Shores

Delmarva Veteran Builders (DVB) is proud to announce that Owner and Vice President Kathryn Ellis accepted the prestigious Accredited Quality Contractor (AQC) Award on behalf of the company at a recent happy hour event hosted by the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Chesapeake Shores Chapter.

The AQC designation recognizes construction firms that demonstrate an unwavering commitment to quality, safety, professional development, and industry-leading operational standards. Companies earning this credential meet rigorous requirements that set them apart as leaders within the construction industry.

Kathryn was joined at the event by DVB team members Cory Bolduc, Sarah Selimo, Maci Bielfeldt, and Victor Hopkins, underscoring the collaborative effort behind the company’s continued success.

“We are honored to receive the AQC recognition,” said Kathryn. “This award reflects the hard work of our entire team and our commitment to delivering excellence on every project.”

Delmarva Veteran Builders remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards in construction while serving clients across the region with integrity, discipline, and craftsmanship.

For more information about Delmarva Veteran Builders, visit www.delmarvaveteranbuilders.com.

About Delmarva Veteran Builders
Delmarva Veteran Builders is a fresh, gritty commercial construction firm igniting potential and doing epic things.

ABC Names Delmarva Veteran Builders a National Top-Performing Construction Company

Salisbury, Maryland, Feb. 9 —Delmarva Veteran Builders (DVB) based in Salisbury, Maryland today announced it ranks 187 on Associated Builders and Contractors’ 2026 Top Performers lists, an annual publication established in 2018 that recognizes its contractor members’ outstanding achievements in health and safety, quality and project excellence, ranked by number of hours worked.  

“We’re honored to be recognized as an ABC National Top Performer for 2026. This award reflects the dedication, grit, and excellence of the entire DVB team.”— Kathryn Ellis, Vice President and Owner, Delmarva Veteran Builders

As an ABC Top Performer, DVB achieved Diamond status in ABC’s STEP® Health and Safety Management System, which helps the best-performing contractors achieve incident rates nearly seven times safer than the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics industry average, according to ABC’s Health and Safety Performance Report. DVB also must earn ABC’s Accredited Quality Contractor credential, which recognizes excellence in quality, health and safety performance, talent management, craft and management education and community relations.

DVB also received an Excellence in Construction award for its build out of the Ocean City Firestation #3 in Ocean City, Maryland.

“Contractors like Delmarva Veteran Builders—which build the most enduring, innovative, high-quality construction projects—develop smart strategies that create a clear path for success, regardless of the circumstances,” said Michael Bellaman, ABC president and CEO. “ABC Top Performers all share commonalities like participation in ABC’s STEP® Health and Safety Management System and ABC’s Accredited Quality Contractor credential. They find opportunity amid uncertainty, embrace competition, cultivate positive company culture, prioritize safety and total human health, invest in leadership and workforce development and implement new technologies. Congratulations to DVB for being an employer of choice.”

Through robust programs like STEP and AQC, DVB demonstrates it can:

·       Sustain and grow their business, financially and economically

·       Offer market-competitive compensation, benefit and retirement packages

·       Commit to industry-leading health and safety

·       Commit to workforce development, education and creating career opportunities

·       Develop opportunities for their employees to achieve their career dreams

·       Cultivate committed leadership

The eighth-annual ABC Top Performers lists identify the Top 250 Performers, Top General Contractors, Top Trade Contractors, Top Electrical Contractors, Top Plumbing/HVAC Contractors, Top Specialty Contractors and Top Performers by Market, all of which have earned the elite Accredited Quality Contractor credential. The Top Performers were ranked by the number of hours worked in 2024, as reported in their 2025 STEP applications. The rankings also include lists of top-performing companies in 19 market segments, such as airports, data centers, education, health care, industrial, infrastructure, military and sports complexes.

ABC’s 2026 Top Performers are presented by Construction Executive, ABC’s award-winning magazine for the business of construction. View the 2026 Top Performers lists at abc.org/topperformers.

About DVB: Delmarva Veteran Builders is a fresh, gritty commercial construction firm igniting potential and doing epic things. Led by two owners, Navy Veteran Chris Eccleston and former architect Kathryn Ellis, DVB has become the contractor of choice on the Eastern Shore. In just over ten years, they have earned local and national accolades as the firm to watch. Recipients of the Pentagon's Freedom Award and the #HireVets Medallion Award, DVB empowers both veterans and civilians. From state and municipal developments to hotels and convenience stores, their impact is clear. Beyond delivering first-rate builds, DVB fosters a strong company culture, veteran spirit, community involvement, and even a children's book about construction saving the world. Their work stands out with signature WWII-style graphics and the battle cry—"Grit Leads to Greatness." More than builders, DVB is a movement, redefining leadership, innovation, and excellence while inspiring the next generation of builders.

About ABC: Associated Builders and Contractors is a national construction industry trade association established in 1950 with 67 chapters and more than 23,000 members. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC helps members offer a robust employee value proposition, develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work. Visit us at abc.org.

DELMARVA VETERAN BUILDERS RECEIVES 2025 HIRE VETS MEDALLION AWARD FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

DVB Owners Kathryn Ellis (left) and Navy Veteran Chris Eccleston pose with the 2025 Hire Vets Medallion Award certificate

The U.S. Department of Labor has recognized Delmarva Veteran Builders (DVB) as one of the record-breaking 887 recipients of the 2025 HIRE Vets Medallion Award. DVB earned the gold award after applying earlier this year. The Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act (HIRE Vets Act) Medallion Award Program is the only federal award program that recognizes employers who successfully recruit, hire, and retain veterans.

DVB joins 886 other companies from 48 states, plus the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico, who have shown a commitment to hiring veterans, but also ensuring that they have a long-term career and growth plan that uses the diverse skills they acquired through their military service.

Recipients of the 2025 HIRE Vets Medallion Award meet rigorous employment and veteran integration assistance criteria, including veteran hiring and retention percentages; availability of veteran-specific resources; leadership programming for veterans; dedicated human resource efforts; pay compensation and tuition assistance programs for veterans. Over 2,200 employers have earned a total of 5,371 HIRE Vets Medallion Awards since 2019.

About the HIRE Vets Medallion Program:

The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is earned by businesses that demonstrate unparalleled commitment to attracting, hiring and retaining veterans. The 2026 HIRE Vets Medallion Award application period will open to employers on Jan. 31, 2026. For more information about the program and the application process, visit HIREVets.gov.

There are different awards for large employers (500-plus employees), medium employers (51-499 employees), and small employers (50 or fewer employees). Additionally, there are two award tiers: platinum and gold.

DVB Breaks Ground on Cypress Splash Pad at Trap Pond State Park

This September, Delmarva Veteran Builders (DVB) was proud to break ground on the Cypress Splash Pad at Trap Pond State Park in Laurel, DE. This exciting project, commissioned by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), will provide families across the region with a fun and safe place to cool off during the summer months.

The splash pad will feature interactive water play zones, a spacious concrete pool deck, and three new prefabricated support buildings — a restroom facility, a ticket kiosk, and an equipment building to power the water-play experience. Beyond the splash features, DVB is completing extensive site improvements including stormwater management, landscaping, paving, fencing, and utility connections.

When completed, the Cypress Splash Pad is expected to welcome up to 200 daily visitors and will quickly become a highlight of the park’s family-friendly attractions.

At DVB, we’re honored to help bring this new community asset to life and proud to work alongside DNREC to expand opportunities for recreation at one of Delaware’s most beloved state parks.

Stay tuned for updates as construction progresses — the Cypress Splash Pad is scheduled to open in 2026!

New Wendy’s Coming to Princess Anne: Delmarva Veteran builders Starts Construction

Fast-track build aims for 100 days from start; modern drive-thru restaurant with a fresh, efficient layout.

Site work begins at the Wendy’s in Princess Anne, Maryland. At the intersection of Route 13 on Brittingham Lane, next to the new Royal Farms.

We’ve kicked off construction on a brand-new Wendy’s in Princess Anne, Maryland. The restaurant will feature a comfortable dining room, a high-efficiency kitchen, and associate facilities designed to keep service quick and consistent for guests on the go.

Delmarva Veteran Builders (DVB) scope covers everything from site work and utilities (water, sewer, power, data, gas) to concrete and masonry, an EIFS exterior, membrane roofing, steel stud framing and drywall, mechanical/electrical/plumbing and fire protection, plus finishing touches like casework, flooring, paint, and security/IT/music systems.

We’re delivering the project on a fast-track 100-calendar-day schedule from construction start or permit release, so progress will be visible early and often.

“This project brings jobs and a great new place to grab a bite, and our team is ready to deliver on a fast-track schedule.”

— David Ritchie, Project Manager, Delmarva Veteran Builders

What to expect next

• Ongoing site work and utility installation

• Foundation and slab, followed by framing and roof work

• Storefront, drive-thru equipment, and interior build-out

• Final finishes, systems testing, and opening prep

We’ll share updates and photos as the build moves ahead. Keep an eye on our social media feeds for milestone moments.

Media Contact
Jenny Kerr Schroen — Delmarva Veteran Builders
Email: jenny@delmarvaveteranbuilders.com

Marquis Who’s Who Honors Christopher David Eccleston for Excellence in Entrepreneurship

Christopher David Eccleston is recognized for his expertise in construction management in the commercial sector

SALISBURY, MD, April 17, 2024, Christopher David Eccleston has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Eccleston is the founder and president of Delmarva Veteran Builders (DVB), an award-winning commercial general contracting business he established in 2013. Under his leadership, the company has become known for its expertise in many different sectors of the construction industry some of which include municipal, institutional-type projects and hotels. Mr. Eccleston's dedication to excellence in construction management is evident through his achievements and the high standards he sets for his organization. Based in Salisbury, Maryland, DVB has grown from a one-person operation to a thriving commercial company that prides itself on maintaining a family-like atmosphere where everyone strives to provide unparalleled service and expertise.

Before establishing DVB, Mr. Eccleston was a project manager at Gillis Gilkerson from 2007 to 2012. His tenure there was marked by significant professional growth and development, leading him to ascend from an entry-level position to one of considerable responsibility. Mr. Eccleston was named to Building Design + Construction Magazine's 40 under 40 Class of 2012. Prior to his career in construction management, Mr. Eccleston served with distinction in the U.S. Navy as a nuclear machinist between 2000 and 2006. His military service notably included three deployments for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he honed his leadership skills and work ethic.

Outside of his professional contributions to construction, Mr. Eccleston is an accomplished writer. In 2023, he co­ authored "Grit Leads to Greatness" with Jenny Schroen, the creative developer at DVB. Taking the immense workforce shortage head-on, they penned a dystopian story where two children save a crumbling world that has forgotten the construction trades. The self-published book has sold nearly 10,000 copies with tens of thousands of kids hearing about the Power of GRIT and the magic of building. The authors are leading a nationwide movement to inspire the next generation into the construction industry.

Apart from his military contributions, Mr. Eccleston has been active civically with various organizations. After a tenured history with the Boy Scouts of America, he became recognized as an Eagle Scout. He is a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Furthermore, Mr. Eccleston has been an impactful member of the Greater Salisbury Committee, Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Salisbury Wicomico Economic Development Committee.

Mr. Eccleston's academic background laid a strong foundation for his professional endeavors. He earned a Bachelor of Science inconstruction management from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in 2008 and a Master of Business Administration from Salisbury University in 2017. He also completed coursework in construction management at Old Dominion University. Well-qualified in his field, Mr. Eccleston has held certifications as a LEED-accredited professional since 2013 and as a certified health care constructor since 2014, demonstrating his commitment to sustainable building practices and specialized construction within health care facilities.

His civic contributions earned him recognition with a Lower Shore Distinguished Citizen Award from the DelMarVa Council of BoyScouts of America in 2023. Other honors include Secretary of Defense Freedom award, three consecutive years on the Inc. 5000 list, 2 consecutive years on the Vet50 list, and the WeHeartSBY award.

About Marquis Who’s Who®:

Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Marquis celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2023, and Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. Marquis® publications may be visited at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website at www.marquiswhoswho.com.

DVB presents first-ever "Grit Leads to Greatness" award to Dr. Donna Hanlin

DVB founder Chris Eccleston hands the “Grit Leads To Greatness” award to Dr. Donna Hanlin during her retirement ceremony at the Wicomico Yacht Club.

Salisbury, Marlyand– June 25th, 2022 Delmarva Veteran Builders (DVB) is a fresh, gritty commercial construction firm igniting potential and doing epic things. Launched in 2013 by Navy Veteran Chris Eccleston, it has become one of the fastest-growing companies in the nation while maintaining a 50% veteran and reservist workforce.

DVB created the Grit Leads to Greatness Award to highlight the “Grittiness” of individuals or organizations in our commUNITY. The award is a bronze cast Buffalo handcrafted by local artisan Laura West. The Buffalo is a visual representation of what it takes to achieve greatness in leadership. Buffalo is our nation’s mammal and also DVB’s spirit animal. When faced with an impending storm, a herd of buffalo’s instinct is to face the challenge head-on. They charge the storm. 

Artist Laura West

DVB believes in the word GRIT. The company’s tagline is Grit Leads to Greatness, with its first core value being Operation GRIT- focusing on teaching future generations why it's the cornerstone to a well-lived life. To further this goal, a children’s book called Grit Leads to Greatness has been written and is currently under production with a release date of spring 2023. 

DVB defines GRIT as having unyielding courage when faced with challenges. Grit embodies so many different traits and characteristics of leadership. It is messy, rough, and abrasive, but forces people to face any challenge and compels them to keep going. 

As part of the retirement ceremony for Dr. Donna Hanlin, Chris Eccleston had the distinct honor and privilege to present this award on behalf of the team and families at Delmarva Veteran Builders.  This is the first time DVB has given an award to a commUNITY member for their service and gritty leadership ability. Chris highlighted Dr. Donna Hanlin’s efforts to engage deeply with the commUNITY working to build strong relationships. Her ability to cast a vision for a better tomorrow for our local public education system led to higher graduation rates and a public school for the arts. Her greatness was solidified as she showed incredible leadership and courage in navigating the school system through an unprecedented pandemic.

Dr. Donna Hanlin showed us that Grit Leads to Greatness and we are forever grateful.

Read more about Grit Leads to Greatness and the mission of DVB at DelmarvaVeteranBuilders.com

Grit Leads to Greatness Award 2022

DELMARVA VETERAN BUILDERS ANNOUNCES $25,000 GRANT PARTNERSHIP

Salisbury, MD. – September 21, 2021 – Delmarva Veteran Builders (DVB), the region’s only commercial construction firm dedicated to bringing employment to U.S. Armed Forces Veterans, announced they are accepting area non-profit applicants for a grant partnership of up to $25,000.00. 

DVB strives to inspire others to ignite potential and make an impact in the commUNITY. When brainstorming a name for this partnership, DVB was moved by a prayer written by one of the first explorers to circumnavigate the world- Sir Francis Drake. The words inspired the team to dream bigger; to venture on wider seas; to dare more boldly. Thus, the Endeavour Grant was born.

It's not like DVB to take the cookie-cutter approach; this is not your typical grant. The team is looking for a partnership with a non-profit in the greater Salisbury/Lower Eastern Shore area to help live DVB’s core values and spread the cause they are so passionate about. 

 In this partnership, DVB would not only provide financial help of up to $25,000.00, they would also be sharing in completing objectives and culture growth that includes learning and teaching opportunities for both organizations during the calendar year. Once the grantee has been awarded, DVB and the winner will work together to determine where help is needed: to enhance a specific project or initiative, or operating funds for the purpose of delivering core values. The grant will be awarded to a non-profit aligned with DVB’s mission, values, and vision, and will spark imagination and empowerment to identify new ways of approaching their core values. Working together, the collaboration will drive each other to greatness.

The grant winner will be determined by the end of 2021, and the funds awarded in 2022. Please read through the eligibility and application requirements located on the website. 

For more information or press inquiries, email impact@delmarvaveteranbuilders.com

For more information and ways to apply, visit https://www.delmarvaveteranbuilders.com/theendeavourgrant