LTC Tom Lainis is a Special Forces Officer and Assistant Professor in the Department of Systems Engineering. He holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Environmental Geography from the United States Military Academy and a Master’s of Science in Defense Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School.
LTC Lainis commissioned as an Infantry Officer in 2003. He served as a Platoon Leader and Company XO in the 101st Airborne Division. In 2008, LTC Lainis graduated from the Special Forces Officer Qualification Course. He went on to serve in multiple positions within 10th Special Forces Group, SOCEUR, and SOCAFRICA. LTC Lainis has served in the USAFRICOM, USCENTCOM, and USEUCOM Areas of Responsibility, including two U.S. Embassies in Africa.
LTC Lainis is married to Mrs. Maia Molina-Schaefer, and they have 1 son.
MS, Defense Analysis, Naval Postgraduate School
BS, Environmental Geography, USMA