The University of the Virgin Islands Research and Technology Park announced Wednesday that Ian Tomlinson is the new chairman of the Board of Directors, effective April 1, following his unanimous selection by the Board during its March 20 meeting.
A native of St. Croix and graduate of the University of the Virgin Islands, Tomlinson brings to the role 4.5 years of service on the UVI RTPark Board and a remarkable career that bridges both community and corporate success, according to the release. As CEO and co-founder of Omni Systems, Inc., a digital transformation company headquartered in McLean, Virginia, he leads a team of over 115 professionals, delivering innovative solutions to Fortune 500 companies, federal and state agencies, and the Virgin Islands government.
Tomlinson began his educational journey at St. Croix’s Alexander Henderson Elementary School and went on to graduate from St. Croix Central High School. He later attended the University of the Virgin Islands, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and an associate degree in Data Processing. While at UVI, he worked alongside faculty on groundbreaking software initiatives, including the university’s first distance learning system. His early professional experience in the territory includes roles at the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority and First Pennsylvania Bank. He later earned a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems from American University in Washington, D.C., and pursued postgraduate studies in Software Engineering at George Mason University.
“This opportunity is both an honor and a return to my roots,” Tomlinson said in a statement. “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. I’m deeply grateful to the Board for their confidence, and I look forward to working closely with Executive Director Eric Sonnier and the UVI RTPark team to drive meaningful community impact and advance our vision of the Virgin Islands as a thriving global hub for innovation.”
Tomlinson succeeds Edward Thomas, whose retirement as chairman became effective on March 31. A respected statesman and business leader, Thomas has dedicated more than three decades to public service in the Virgin Islands. He played a critical role in the acquisition of the West Indian Company Ltd. in 1993 — a historic milestone in Virgin Islands economic development — and went on to serve in key leadership positions across the UVI system, including as a trustee and chairman of the UVI RTPark Board of Directors.
“Under his leadership, the UVI RTPark solidified its position as a catalyst for tech-based growth and community advancement, with Mr. Thomas playing an instrumental role in shaping the organization’s trajectory and supporting the growth of its team and mission,” the release stated.
“Mr. Tomlinson brings exactly the type of forward-looking leadership that the RTPark needs at this pivotal moment,” said Thomas. “His business acumen and technological expertise — while grounded in a deep understanding of the Virgin Islands — make him uniquely qualified to lead and gives me great confidence in the future of this organization. I trust that Ian and Eric will build on our achievements and take the RTPark to the next level.”
UVI RTPark Executive Director Eric Sonnier also welcomed the leadership transition. “It’s an exciting time for the RTPark, and I’m excited to work alongside Mr. Tomlinson as he steps into the role of Chairman,” said Sonnier. “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. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Chairman Thomas, whose service, vision, and dedication laid the foundation we stand on today.”
“Tomlinson’s leadership marks a renewed commitment to UVI RTPark’s dual mission of driving economic diversification and advancing community development. Backed by a strong leadership team and a clear focus on innovation, UVI RTPark is well-positioned to expand its impact, attract high-growth businesses, and cultivate the next generation of talent in the Virgin Islands,” the release stated.
