Ian Tomlinson. Photo Credit: RTPARK
The University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park (UVI RTPark) has announced the appointment of Ian Tomlinson as the new Chairman of its Board of Directors, effective April 1, 2025. His selection was made unanimously by the Board during its March 20 meeting.
Mr. Tomlinson, a native of St. Croix and a graduate of the University of the Virgin Islands, brings more than four years of experience on the UVI RTPark Board and an extensive career in technology and business leadership, according to the release. He is the CEO and co-founder of Omni Systems, Inc., a digital transformation firm based in McLean, Virginia. The company employs over 115 professionals and provides innovative solutions to a client base that includes Fortune 500 corporations, U.S. federal and state agencies, and the Government of the Virgin Islands.
A product of the Virgin Islands public education system, Mr. Tomlinson began his schooling at Alexander Henderson Elementary School before graduating from St. Croix Central High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and an associate degree in Data Processing from the University of the Virgin Islands, where he also contributed to the university’s first distance learning system as a student, according to the RTPark. His early career in the territory included positions at the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority and First Pennsylvania Bank. He later completed a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems at American University and pursued postgraduate studies in Software Engineering at George Mason University.
Reflecting on his appointment, Mr. Tomlinson said, “This opportunity is both an honor and a return to my roots. As a proud Virgin Islander and UVI graduate, I’ve long believed in the potential of technology and innovation to empower our people and strengthen our economy.” He added that he looks forward to working with Executive Director Eric Sonnier and the UVI RTPark team to continue advancing the organization’s vision of the Virgin Islands as a global center for innovation.
Mr. Tomlinson replaces outgoing Chairman Edward Thomas, whose retirement became effective on March 31, 2025. The RTPark described Mr. Thomas as a respected public servant and business leader whose career has spanned more than 30 years. He played a key role in the 1993 acquisition of the West Indian Company Ltd., a pivotal moment in Virgin Islands economic development. In addition to serving as a Trustee in the UVI system, Mr. Thomas held leadership positions with UVI RTPark, contributing significantly to the growth and direction of the organization.
“Mr. Tomlinson brings exactly the type of forward-looking leadership that the RTPark needs at this pivotal moment,” said Mr. Thomas. “His business acumen and technological expertise—while grounded in a deep understanding of the Virgin Islands—make him uniquely qualified to lead.” He expressed confidence that Mr. Tomlinson and Executive Director Sonnier would continue to build upon the RTPark’s accomplishments.
Mr. Sonnier also praised the appointment, stating, “His insight and experience in the private sector, coupled with his commitment to our local communities, will be instrumental as we continue building a tech-forward economy.” Sonnier extended his gratitude to Mr. Thomas for his vision and dedication, which he said created a strong foundation for the RTPark’s future.
The RTPark said Mr. Tomlinson’s appointment comes at a time of renewed focus on RTPark’s dual mission to drive economic diversification and foster community development in the Virgin Islands.
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