After graduating from law school in 1987, Tom began his legal career at Ogletree Deakins and is currently the practice group leader of the firm’s Traditional Labor Practice Group. Tom represents employers in all aspects of employment law matters with a primary focus on the area of traditional labor law. He assists clients in maintaining union-free work environments through the implementation of cutting-edge, positive employee relations programs and creative leadership education. Tom is a recognized expert in the use of interactive training techniques, which help management understand, in practical terms, how to effectively deal with union issues in the work place. He also helps employers respond to union organizing efforts and handles unfair labor practice litigation before the National Labor Relations Board. Tom also helps unionized employers develop and maintain constructive relationships with the union representing their employees. This involves collective bargaining and grievance management. While Tom has experience in many industrial settings, a great deal of his time is spent dealing with these issues for clients engaged in the health care industry, the automotive assembly and auto parts supply industry and in warehousing/distribution. In addition, Tom advises clients on compliance with various aspects of the federal laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act and state restrictive covenant laws.