DAVID CROOM – President

“Today, the homes we build and restore are often custom, one-of-a-kind designs. They actually exceed the complexity of most commercial buildings. When you are dealing with complicated roof structures and artistic details, you need to have remarkable skilled people to do these jobs well. To me, it’s the difference between good and the absolute best.”

No one in Vero Beach is more synonymous with luxury residential building than David Croom, who founded Croom Construction Company back in 1978. In more than 30 years of operation, he has built over 500 estate homes in the most prestigious developments such as John’s Island, Windsor, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club, and The Moorings.

An early advocate of thorough training for field personnel, David has done much to raise the bar in the local construction industry. His adherence to the highest standards of quality is legendary. He also believes in making the home-building process smoother and more fun for clients. It’s never approached as a one-time project. “You’re a Croom client for life,” he says.

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Industrial Engineering from the University of Georgia, MBA from the University of Miami
  • Florida Class A Certified General Contractor
  • Trustee, Treasurer of St. Edward’s School
  • Director, Marine Bank & Trust Company
  • Member, John’s Island Architectural Review Committee
  • Director, National Association of Home Builders
  • Past President, 100 Club
  • Economic Development Committee of Indian River County Chamber of Commerce
  • Director, Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), Florida East Coast Chapter and Chairman of the Treasure Coast Chapter
  • President, Vero Beach Treasure Coast Kiwanis Club

DAVID LYONS – Vice President

“Everyone at Croom has so much pride in what they do. It is not just about building a beautiful home, but it’s also about making sure the client is really happy. We have an excellent team who strive to execute the perfect fit and finish. We never compromise.”

For more than 25 years, Dave has managed all pre-construction activities at Croom Construction Company and works closely with owners, architects and engineers during the design and planning stages for each project. Since 1986, Dave has been responsible for more than $280 million in sales of both residential, commercial and renovation projects. As a trained mechanical engineer, he brings a deep understanding of the complex systems that go into a high-end project. And he shares David Croom’s insistence on delivering the top quality for Croom clients.

  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University
  • Board, Associated General Contractor of America (AGC)
  • Chairman, Indian River County AGC Advisory Committee
  • Member, National Home Builders Association
  • Recipient, AGC’s President’s Award for Outstanding Committee Chairman
  • Volunteer, Environmental Learning Center and Beachland PTA
  • Coach, IRSA Youth Soccer and Basketball

CHARLES CROOM, VP – Operations

“I’m not happy unless the client is 100% satisfied. That’s on every job, every day. Everyone at Croom works to this standard.”

The Croom commitment to client satisfaction is shared by a second generation. David’s son, Charles, joined the company in 2006 after 10 years in commercial construction in the Orlando market. Charles manages the activities of all Croom Project Managers and Field Superintendents, making sure each project is completed on time and on budget. He enjoys building strong relationships with clients and ensuring their experience is a pleasant one..

  • Bachelor’s degree in Building Science from Auburn University, and member of Sigma Lambda Chi, the honorary construction fraternity
  • Florida Class A Certified General Contractor
  • National Home Builders Association
  • Board of Directors, IRC Education Foundation
  • Coach, Vero Beach Little League and IR Soccer Association

JOE KIRBY, VP – Estimating & Purchasing

“The accuracy of our state-of-the-art computerized estimating system distinguishes us among local contractors. No cost overruns and no surprises are benefits Croom customers appreciate.”

Joe is responsible for all estimating functions of the company. In his more than 20 years with Croom Construction Company, he has estimated over $350 million worth of projects. Under his supervision are detailed preliminary estimates, plan reviews, subcontractor competitive bids, carpentry labor estimates, and management and estimating for our painting division, Precision Finishing & Painting.

  • Graduated with honors from the University of Florida School of Building Construction where he was a member of Sigma Lambda Chi, the honorary construction fraternity
  • Florida Class A Certified General Contractor

MARILYN KOLAR – Material Selection Coordinator

“Croom hires the best specialists. When everyone does their job, then all the pieces fit together like a perfect puzzle. Croom is a master at putting it all together.”

Before joining Croom, Marilyn worked in design management for MacKenzie-Childs. A master of all the details, she helps clients choose carpets, countertops, tile — any of the hardscapes in a home. With her amazing organizational skills and fine eye for interiors, she makes the decision making process a pleasure, not a chore, for clients. Charles Croom readily admits that Marilyn is our “secret weapon.” Every client raves about what it’s like to work with her.

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Ithaca College
  • Member, local American Cancer Society “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer”

AARON BENSON – Renovations Division Manager

“Our renovations division is growing because we’ve earned a reputation for understanding the complexities of dealing with older homes. We protect the existing structure while delivering re-styled space on time and on budget.”

Originally from Lake Worth, FL, Aaron earned a degree in Building Construction Management from the University of North Florida. Since 2003, he has more than $80 million worth of renovations to his credit. Always calm under stress, his personality is suited to the changes and challenges renovation projects present. Because most projects are undertaken in the summer months when clients are not in residence, they appreciate his written weekly reports accompanied by photos that record progress. Your renovation project is in good hands at Croom Construction Company with Aaron Benson in charge.

  • Bachelor of Science in Building Construction
  • State of Florida Certified Building Contractor

JAMES CHOQUET – Supervisor, Precision Finishing and Painting

“David Croom understood how important a quality paint job is to a finished project, and believed that having his own painting staff was the way to guarantee that quality. I was lucky enough to be hired at the beginning.”

James, originally from Providence, R.I., moved to Vero Beach as a teen. He completed technical coursework at IRSC, earning OSHA and EPA certifications. He also has specialist training in scaffolding erection and high lift equipment. Already a Licensed Painting Contractor when he joined Precision Finishing and Painting back in 1997, he has worked his way up to managing a team of 20 painters. He says that the key to a good paint job is all in the preparation of surfaces before paint or stain is ever applied. James is proud of his team’s reputation for furniture-quality finishes for woodwork and other wood surfaces. This, he says, is what separates run-of-the-mill painters from his experienced pros.