The People of Penn State
Welcome to the People of Penn State Podcast — the podcast from the Penn State Alumni Association that brings you the incredible stories of Nittany Lions making their mark on the world!
Each episode, a rotating cast of hosts sit down with Penn State alumni who are changing the game in business, science, sports, the arts, and beyond. You never know who you'll hear from next — but you do know it'll be a conversation worth tuning in for!
The People of Penn State
Episode 33 — Director For Operations And Exercise Director For The Tactical Training Group, Pacific, Captain Thomas Ulmer '96
Captain Thomas Ulmer '96 is a commissioned Naval Officer with 27 years of experience. A Surface Warfare Officer, he has commanded two Navy warships and led diverse work forces through routine operations to crisis while circum-navigating the globe and conducting operations worldwide.
Throughout his service, Tom has participated in operations that responded to natural disasters by providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, evacuated thousands from war zones, and conducted operations in support of national security.
Tom joins us to talk about his military service, missions for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, his strong family ties to Penn State and why he continues to give back to the University.
All of that and a whole lot more on this episode of The People of Penn State!
Connect with Tom on LinkedIn
Learn more about the Penn State Alumni Association: alumni.psu.edu.
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Timestamps:
0:00 — Intro
2:27 — Becoming a Penn Stater
3:15 — Involvement as a student
3:57 — Original career goals
6:25 — Family connections to Penn State
7:53 — Stories about Tom's brother Dave Ulmer
8:58 — Being a part of the Disney College Program
11:50 — The rare occasion where Tom's Penn State pride got him in trouble
13:00 — "Top Gun's" influence on Navy recruitment
14:15 — Lessons from Tom's Naval service
15:55 — Humanitarian missions
20:53 — Tom's call sign
23:25 — What it's like commanding a ship
25:05 — Responsibilities for the Tactical Training Group, Pacific
27:38 — Tom's new upcoming role in education
29:00 — Service to Penn State and giving back
30:23 — Ad Read - Alumni Shop
31:39 — Lighting Round Q&A
35:55 — Outro
37:10 — Alma Mater
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
