Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce Announces 2026 Annual Awards Recipients
The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce proudly announced the recipients of its 2026 Annual Awards during a celebration held Thursday, October 15, at Mountain Valley Golf Course. The Annual Awards Gala, proudly presented by Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill, a part of Jefferson Health, brought together business leaders, community partners, and supporters from across Schuylkill County to recognize outstanding achievements in business, leadership, entrepreneurship, and community service.
The evening celebrated the individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations whose dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence continue to strengthen Schuylkill County's economy and quality of life.
The Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes the following 2026 Annual Awards recipients:
- Business Woman of the Year: Laurie Sylvester, Hydro — Sponsored by Mid Penn Bank
- Business Man of the Year: Jason Bower, Dunkin' — Sponsored by Mid Penn Bank
- For-Profit Business of the Year: Pioneer Pole Buildings, Inc. - Sponsored by Customers Bank
- Nonprofit of the Year: Trials to Triumph Foundation — Sponsored by Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill, a part of Jefferson Health
- Entrepreneur of the Year: Gregory Kurtz, Jr., Advanced Code Consultants — Sponsored by Customers Bank
- Small Business of the Year: The Farm Store — Sponsored by Explore Schuylkill
- Young Professional of the Year: Seth Hubler, Office of Senator Dave Argall — Sponsored by Explore Schuylkill
Each recipient was selected through a comprehensive evaluation process designed to recognize excellence in leadership, professional achievement, community involvement, innovation, and organizational success.
The Chamber's Awards Committee, chaired by Jessica Dean of Patriot Growth Insurance Services, conducted an independent review of nominations using a detailed scoring rubric. Committee evaluations accounted for 70% of the final results, while public voting represented the remaining 30%. Chamber staff did not participate in the nomination, vetting, or voting process.
Community engagement reached new heights in 2026, with more than 3,000 public votes cast, representing a 34.4% increase over the previous year. The strong participation demonstrated the pride and appreciation residents have for the individuals and organizations making a positive impact throughout Schuylkill County.
During the celebration, Robert S. Carl, Jr., President and CEO of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the significance of recognizing those who contribute to the region's success.
"Each of you plays a vital role in making Schuylkill County a place where businesses thrive and people care deeply about one another," Carl remarked in recognition of the evening's nominees and award recipients.
The Chamber also recognized all 2026 nominees, acknowledging their accomplishments and the important contributions they make to the business community. Each nominee exemplified the leadership, integrity, dedication, and community spirit that continue to move Schuylkill County forward.
The Chamber congratulates all seven award recipients and nominees for their outstanding achievements and thanks them for their continued commitment to making Schuylkill County a remarkable place to live, work, play, and succeed.