Tom grew up and attended schools in Fargo.  After graduating from Southern Methodist University in 1973 he began his insurance career as the 3rd generation in Dawson Insurance, a business founded by his grandfather in 1917.  He retired from the business in 2023. Tom is past president of the Independent Insurance Agents of North Dakota and served on the national board of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America for many years. He is also a former member of the Board of Governors for the Society of Certified Insurance Counselors. 

The greater Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo Community has always been a passion for Tom, and he has continued a tradition of his family and business of serving civic and not-for-profit organizations.  These include Meritcare Health System (predecessor of Sanford Health), YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties, Plains Art Museum, Fargo Moorhead Area Foundation, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation and the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce.  He remains active with the United Way of Cass-Clay, First Presbyterian Church and Fargo Kiwanis Club.   

Tom and his wife, Georgia, have grown sons, each with their own families which include 7 precious grandchildren.