Meet the Team

Tom’s vocational career began with time spent serving his country in the United States Air Force, following in the footsteps of both his father and grandfather, who served in World War I and the Korean War, respectively. He is deeply patriotic, ensuring the American flag flies high. One of the greatest gifts learned during his time in the military was leadership and attention to detail and most importantly – service to country.

Not including his time at his elementary Lutheran school growing up in North Tonawanda, New York (St. Mark’s), he attended Concordia Nebraska for his undergraduate degree, his master’s at Butler University in Indiana, and his doctorate at Concordia Wisconsin. Within each of these schools, God truly shaped Tom and prepared him with the following exposure and learning in these respective degree programs: education, leadership, technology, innovation, and continuous improvement. But truly, it was his deep love for our Lord and serving in the LCMS.

Tom served for thirty-six years at various Lutheran schools including Trinity, Atchinson, KS; Hope, Levittown, PA; St. Peter’s, Columbus, IN; Trinity, Darmstadt, IN; Trinity, Jackson, MI; Trinity, Utica, MI; and Zion, Georgetown, TX.

An essential part of his career path was in the classroom and administration. He loved being among the students! He is well known for creating an innovative system of gathering his students to “talk shop” at a place he called The Answer Bench” just outside his office. There were many memorable discussions that took place there, including times of prayer, support, and “Aha moments” and laughter! Most recently he was blessed to be a consultant to assist Lutheran schools with sustainability.

Dr. Wrege desires to provide continuing support for educators and ministries, through the creation of value-added content and resources, continuous learning opportunities, listening to the voice of our church workers, and providing places of service where Jesus Christ can be proclaimed and shared boldly.

He is extremely excited to humbly lead the Lutheran Education Association, facilitating a future of collaborative networking, sustainability, and global efforts.

When not visiting schools or attending/leading conferences, Tom has always believed in having a balanced life. That means when not working, he deeply loves being with his family and spending quality time with them. He and his wife Keven love to camp and hike together. His favorite hobbies beyond those mentioned are hunting, fishing, mountain biking, whittling, and solo time in creation – listening to God and seeking His will.