Tom’s expertise is in geology, with a strong interest in astronomy. He is no stranger to the Sanford Lab community. He worked for Homestake, and was involved with early DUSEL efforts before leaving the area for the Hemlo Gold Camp in Ontario, and most recently working at iron ore operations in Minnesota and Michigan.
Tom was associated with NASA's South Dakota Space Grant Consortium at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, where he developed working relationships with NASA Centers and scientists, promoted collaborations with Space Grant affiliates and tribal high schools and colleges in western South Dakota. He also initiated Earth and Space camps for middle school students and teachers with his wife, Melissa, in the Rapid City school system. Tom also taught undergraduate astronomy and geology courses at SDSM&T and developed curriculum for an Advanced Observational Astronomy course.
His hobbies include collecting minerals and Native American art, astronomy, fishing, hiking, photography, and railroad history. Tom enjoys spending time and sharing interests with his wife, children and grandchildren.