Tom, originally from Jacksonville, Florida, holds a degree in history from the University of Florida. He began his career with a focus on outdoor experiential education, working with organizations like the Wilderness School in Connecticut and Project STEP in Florida, where he engaged in alternative outdoor education courses inspired by Outward Bound programs. His teaching experiences extended to winter mountaineering courses in Maine with Hurricane Island Outward Bound, as well as backpacking, climbing, and whitewater courses in North Carolina with NC Outward Bound.

Tom's journey led him to California, driven by his passion for surfing. In the Santa Barbara area, he worked as a recreation counselor for the Devereux Foundation at their campus in Isla Vista. In 1981, he became a California State Park Ranger in Huntington Beach, later transferring to the Ventura/Santa Barbara area, and eventually to Lake County, serving at Clear Lake and Anderson Marsh State Parks until his retirement in 2007.

Post-retirement, Tom continued to contribute to the community, volunteering for Lake County Public Services and Konocti Regional Trails as a project coordinator for Mt. Konocti County Park. He also took on roles as Secretary and President of the Clear Lake Riviera Community Association HOA for several years. With 20 years of experience working with California non-profits, Tom is enthusiastic about supporting CLERC's growth and success.

Tom, along with his wife Val and their Golden Retriever, Buddy, resides in Kelseyville Riviera. His leisure pursuits include bass fishing from his kayak and being a part of a local 'geezer band' called Indie Groove.