Chris Eccleston of Delmarva Veteran Builders Named Entrepreneur of the Year

SALISBURY, Md. – November 6, 2015 – Delmarva Veteran Builders, the region’s only commercial construction firm dedicated to bringing employment to U.S. Armed Forces Veterans, announced president Chris Eccleston has been named Palmer Gillis Entrepreneur of the Year by Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE). Chris received the $2,000 cash award at MCE’s Awards Banquet on Thursday, November 5th at Salisbury University. 

“It is a humbling experience to be recognized by your peers and other business pioneers in the community,” said Chris Eccleston, Delmarva Veteran Builders. “I accepted this honor on behalf of the entire DVB team because I truly believe that the growth and success of our business is due to the quality workforce that I have the privilege to pull from - our United States Armed Forces Veterans.” 

The runners up included Lisa M. Brooks, Pharmacist and owner of Clayton’s Pharmacy in Cambridge and Walter Moore, president and CEO of APPI Energy in Salisbury. All three top finalists were selected by a panel of judges made up of local business and civic leaders. Fourteen other entrepreneurs were nominated. 

Three years ago Chris Eccleston launched Delmarva Veteran Builders with a mission to develop a company with a veteran workforce. Being familiar with the level of training and work ethic veterans’ experience, it was his goal to provide them with a career in construction once they return from their service to the country. Delmarva Veteran Builders has maintained a 65% veteran workforce throughout its growth. 

Eccleston also gives back to his community by serving on multiple Boards including the Chamber of Commerce, the Board of License Commissioners, the Workforce Investment Board, and Lower Shore Enterprises. He serves in the 

Sunrise Rotary Club, on the Winter Wonderland of Lights Committee, and formerly served on the Board of Habitat for Humanity and the Lions Club. 

For more information, visit www.delmarvaveteranbuilders.com.