Tom Waggoner is a seasoned senior executive with over 40 years of experience managing projects, driving strategic initiatives, growth, and transformation across a broad spectrum of industries. His expertise spans corporate finance, business development, strategic planning, and technology management. With a proven track record in startups, turnarounds, and high-growth environments, Tom’s career has focused on fostering sustainable growth and creating value in sectors such as energy, housing, fuels, agriculture, and environmental services. 

Currently, Tom serves as the Managing Director and CEO of SyntexNRG, an ecodustrial integrator focused on supporting “green” industrial centers powered by renewable energy and renewable fuels, with projects coming up in Arkansas and several other states and plans for further expansion. Tom’s innovative approach in assembling multiple business lines under a single management structure is powering SyntexNRG towards creating industrial ecosystems that promote clean technologies across industries such as transportation, alternative fuels, and community development. 

In addition to his role at SyntexNRG, Tom serves as the Director of AlterAg Industries, an agricultural platform consolidating dairy products and cattle production. Over nearly a decade, he has been instrumental in guiding the company’s business consolidation efforts in preparation for an eventual public offering. His experience as a leader in both public and private companies, coupled with his deep understanding of corporate finance and the energy and agricultural sectors, uniquely positions him to steer organizations toward long-term success. 

Throughout his career, Tom has applied his skills in corporate finance and growth strategy to a wide range of industries. He has held leadership roles across medical technology, financial services, education technology, and environmental industries. His entrepreneurial mindset and ability to manage complex financial landscapes have seen him steer companies like STAAR Surgical to success. At STAAR, Tom developed revolutionary foldable lens implants for cataract surgery, took the company public, and saw it become the top-performing stock in the U.S. in 1984. 

Tom’s work as a consultant through Waggoner & Co. since 1985 has further cemented his reputation as a change agent. His work in diverse sectors has consistently focused on creating value through innovative finance and strategic management solutions. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Tom is committed to environmental stewardship and community service. He has volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America, serving as an Eagle Scout and Troop Committee member, and has held board roles with the NW Arkansas Master Naturalists. Under his guidance as Strategic Planning Facilitator, Volunteer Coordinator, and Membership Committee Chair, the organization saw significant growth, expanding from 106 members to 360 over four years. He was also a member of the Arkansas Master Gardeners, contributing to local environmental initiatives. 

Tom’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts from Dartmouth College, where he was a Senior Fellow in Psycholinguistics. His independent research at Dartmouth involved advanced mathematical modeling to validate Wittgenstein’s theories of meaning, underscoring his analytical capabilities and intellectual curiosity.  

His education also includes a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational/Instructional Technology from the University of Arkansas, where he focused on blended learning and instructional design.  

In all his endeavors, Tom remains passionate about making a positive impact. His guiding mission is to make a difference in the industries and communities he serves, particularly in the areas of energy, agriculture, housing, and technology. Tom’s ability to blend visionary leadership with practical execution makes him a highly sought-after executive for organizations looking to navigate change and achieve sustainable growth. 

Driven by a desire to contribute his unique skill set and experience, Tom is always open to opportunities where he can work closely with CEOs and executive teams to create lasting, positive change. His unwavering focus on meaningful outcomes is reflected in his measurement of opportunities by their “impact quotient” rather than just monetary return, making him an invaluable asset to any organization seeking leadership that combines experience, innovation, and a deep commitment to making a difference. 

Character: 
Tom Waggoner is a mission-driven leader who prioritizes making a positive impact in all his endeavors. His focus on creating value for organizations and communities reflects his deep commitment to ethical leadership and long-term sustainability. 

Knowledge: 
With over 40 years of experience across multiple industries, Tom has cultivated expertise in corporate finance, strategic planning, and business development. His vast knowledge spans sectors such as energy, agriculture, healthcare, and education technology, allowing him to drive innovative solutions in complex environments. 

Strategic: 
Tom excels in identifying synergies and growth opportunities, assembling diverse business lines to create integrated industrial ecosystems. His strategic approach ensures sustainable success, whether steering startups or guiding mature organizations through significant transformations and public offerings. 

Communication: 
Tom’s ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively allows him to lead cross-functional teams and engage stakeholders at all levels. His collaborative style fosters strong relationships with CEOs, boards, and teams, ensuring alignment and shared vision in achieving impactful outcomes.