More About Thomas
Thomas was born in Alaska, where he spent much of his childhood exploring mountains, forests and waters near and far. His young adult life was shaped by competitive running and cross-country skiing and the outdoors he trained in. He was also shaped by his politically-active, community-minded parents. He earned a BA in English from Williams College and an MAT in teaching from Alaska Pacific University. He earned national board certification in teaching in 2004. Thomas taught in the public school system from 1995 to 2023.
In addition to teaching, Thomas worked as a commercial fisherman for 14 seasons and as a legislative aide in Juneau.
Thomas’ writing reflects the significance Alaska plays in his life. Vast wilderness, remote communities and grand landscapes frequently form the settings for his work. Alaska’s wild places influence his characters, both real and fictional. The northern landscape lends meaning to Thomas’ life, and hopefully, to his work.
His writing has appeared in Alaska Humanities Forum, Alaska Magazine, Anchorage Daily News, Anchorage Press, We Alaskans, 49 Writers, Dr. Funny, Jane Austen’s Wastebasket, Muddyum, and Slackjaw, among others. Awards include grand prize in the 2010 Anchorage Daily News/University of Alaska Creative Writing Contest and first place in super short fiction and haiku writing contests hosted by the Anchorage Press.
Thomas lives with his wife in Anchorage.