Electric Operations Integrity Manager 

Norwich Public Utilities 

Utility Operations 

BOARD EXPERIENCE 

Thames River Community Service 

Executive Committee 

Governance Committee 

Finance & Investment Committee 

Strategic Planning Committee 

Martin House 

Executive Committee 

Governance Committee 

Finance & Investment Committee 

Strategic Planning Committee 

Eric McDermott is a consummate servant leader with over 20 years of experience leading organizations of varying size and complexity in the defense, marine, and utility sectors. He fosters collaboration and communication to tackle the most complex challenges and inspires his teams to reach their full potential. McDermott has brought his experience to several non-profit boards, committees, and local government commissions during his career.

As the Electric Operations Integrity Manager at Norwich Public Utilities (NPU), McDermott oversees electric distribution, transmission, and generation operations directing a staff of 30 personnel and managing an annual budget of $20 Million to serve 22,000 customers. During his time at NPU he introduced new technology and processes to increase system efficiency and resiliency, drive financial rigor, and improve safety. 

As a senior navy reserve officer, CAPT McDermott has commanded over 300 military personnel deployed into ambiguous operating environments. He has been consistently recognized for overcoming myriad challenges to successfully execute high risk, complex missions throughout the world. He has a demonstrated history of harmonizing military and diplomatic interests by building relationships with senior foreign officials that foster mutual respect and shared success. 

McDermott is passionate about building a more equitable community in Southeastern Connecticut through collective impact to address poverty and homelessness. As part of this pursuit he has served on multiple boards, committees, and commissions to include his town’s Economic Development Commission and United Way of Southeastern Connecticut’s New Capacities Steering Committee. He is currently the President of the Board of Directors for Thames River Community Service and Martin House. McDermott holds an MBA from the University of New Haven and Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering from Massachusetts Maritime Academy. He is also a graduate of the Naval War College and National Defense University Joint and Combined Warfighting School. He holds his Program Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Program Management Institute. He resides in Ledyard, CT with his wife Sarah, son Tyler, and twin daughters Emma and Hannah.