Tom Carpenter, P.E. has always been a problem solver. From a young age, he enjoyed tinkering with broken things, trying to fix them—a trait he says he inherited from his industrious grandfather, who built his own log home.
After reading a book on building construction in his early teens, Tom became interested in pursuing a career within the A/E/C industry. His deep appreciation for municipal infrastructure and its vital role in sustaining everyday life propelled him in the direction of civil engineering.
Today, he applies 20+ years of experience towards leading civil engineering teams as a Vice President at CPL and overseeing projects as the Northeast Region Leader for the firm’s Community Practice. Whether he’s managing complex municipal projects, discussing sewer feasibility studies with town officials or providing plan review services, Tom consistently delivers results that improve quality of life across the board.
His favorite project thus far?
The Science, Technology and Advanced Manufacturing Park, more commonly referred to as CPL’s STAMP project. Located in Genesee County, the park is a 1,250-acre industrial development site targeting high-tech manufacturing companies. Tom has served as the project’s Principal for more than 15 years and says the work satisfies his desire to activate lasting change on a regional level.
Aerial View of the Genesee Valley Agri-Business Park for the Genesee County Economic Development Center
“CPL is trying to bring manufacturing back to the United States,” he said. “STAMP is expected to generate around 9,000 on-site jobs and an additional 40,000 throughout the county, so it’s a substantial investment in New York’s long-term future.”
His community involvement extends beyond the office—Tom was a dedicated member of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce and coached his children’s youth baseball and lacrosse teams for years. He’s always made it a point to donate to charity organizations and volunteer often, and together with his family, participates in annual breast cancer awareness campaigns.
After nearly two decades with CPL, he says the firm’s sense of fellowship and continued growth opportunities are why he chooses to stay.
“It isn’t just about revenue or practice growth—there’s a constant focus on mentoring the next generation of leaders,” Tom said, adding, “We truly join forces as a team to improve the communities we live and work in, developing meaningful connections with one another in the process.”
