RALEIGH, N.C. (December 5, 2016) - Local business leader Tommy Laakso has joined the board of directors of the Wake Tech Foundation. Laakso was selected for his community leadership and commitment to the mission of the college.

Laakso is Executive General Manager for Hendrick Cary Auto Mall in Cary, North Carolina. He earned his bachelor’s degree in finance with a concentration in accounting from Appalachian State University. Laakso is a car enthusiast with a passion for the auto industry. He has held numerous positions in the business, from sales associate to finance manager. Laakso is very involved in the community and supports a variety of charities. He lives in Raleigh with his wife Pamela and their two children.

The Foundation’s Board of Directors includes Mary-Ann Baldwin, Doug Ball, Nathan Becker, David Campbell, Clymer Cease, Tom Cline, Linda Coleman, Mike Conlon, Allin Foulkrod, Larry Hamilton, Samantha Hatem, Jill Heath, Kirk Mader, Cesar Merlos, Arne Morris, Tom Murry, Joan Myers, Andy Penry, Patricia Poe, John Saparilas, Kent Thompson, Walt Tippett, and Joe Trabocco.

The board’s leadership team is made up of Judy Fourie (Chair), David Brownlee (Chair-elect), Pam Williams (Treasurer), and Wake Tech President Dr. Stephen Scott (Secretary). The Foundation’s executive director is Matt Smith.