Paris, Tenn.– Tommy Young, Vice President of Surveying at L.I. Smith & Associates, Inc. (LIS), has been appointed by Governor Bill Lee to the Tennessee State Board of Examiners for Land Surveyors, representing West Tennessee.
This prestigious appointment recognizes Young as one of Tennessee’s most respected professionals in the field, following a nomination and strong recommendation from the Tennessee Association of Professional Surveyors (TAPS). The Board is composed of three licensed surveyors, one from each of the state’s grand divisions, along with one public member, all appointed by the Governor. Its charge is to protect public safety by regulating licensure, enforcing ethical standards, and shaping statewide policy for the
profession. Each member serves a six-year term beginning July 1 following their appointment.
Young, who has more than 28 years of industry experience, 24 of which have been spent with LIS, has established himself as a leader in advancing both technical standards and professional ethics. His extensive industry involvement includes serving as President of the Tennessee Surveyors Education Foundation, membership on East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Surveying and Mapping Science Industrial Advisory Committee, and leadership within TAPS, where he has participated nearly continuously since 1999. He currently serves as President of the Northwest Chapter.
In addition, Young is a Tennessee Certified Floodplain Surveyor and past recipient of the John J. Harris Surveyor of the Year Award from TAPS, which recognizes surveyors who exemplify professionalism, dependability, and civic responsibility. He is licensed in 10 states and holds dual bachelor’s degrees in surveying and mapping from ETSU and agriculture from Tennessee Technological University.
For LIS, Young’s appointment is both an honor and a milestone. It reflects not only his individual achievements, but also the firm’s commitment to excellence in surveying and engineering across the Southeast.
“A well-deserved appointment! Tommy is not only a student of Land Surveying, but a professional I hold in the highest regard,” remarked LIS President Patrick Smith. “When I
interviewed him nearly a quarter of a century ago, I knew surveying was more than just a career choice for him. It was a calling. After all these years, the Governor has recognized his lasting contributions to the profession by appointing him to the Board. What can I say? I am proud!”