RCIL PROFILE: Tom Lippie

April 28, 2025

Site Director Tom Lippie, was raised in a close-knit community as the eldest child of James and Avis Lippie. With his two younger sisters, Nancy Lyker and Mary Lippie, family has always played a central role in his life. For 24 years, Tom worked alongside his father in the family’s plumbing and heating business, where he gained not only hands-on experience in the trade but also a deep appreciation for hard work, integrity, and service to others—values that continue to guide his professional journey.

Tom Lippie grew up in the close-knit community of Fonda, NY, as the eldest child of James and Avis Lippie. With two younger sisters, Nancy Lyker and Mary Lippie, family has always been at the heart of Tom’s life. He spent 24 years working alongside his father in the family’s plumbing and heating business, learning not only the trade but also the values of hard work, integrity, and service to others.

For the past 53 years, Tom has shared his life with his wonderful wife Nancy. Together, they’ve built a loving family that includes four children and five grandchildren, whom they cherish deeply.

Tom has been with RCIL for 1.5 years, currently serving as the Site Director for the LIFE at RCIL Amsterdam office. His long-standing career has centered on helping others, and he found a natural alignment with RCIL’s mission to support and assist individuals in need.

"My favorite part of the job is supporting my team members and assisting them as they work with consumers," Tom says. "Watching them grow and succeed is the professional accomplishment I’m most proud of."
The Amsterdam office faces the unique challenge of covering two counties with a lean team of just 2.5 advocates. The constant stream of referrals keeps the office busy, and Tom is committed to ensuring timely, quality service despite the high demand.

For Tom, RCIL’s mission is a personal motivator:

“It inspires me to think creatively and work hard to provide consumers with viable options for living independently. I want every service we provide to focus not just on today, but on building a better tomorrow for our consumers.”
Describing the work environment at RCIL as “cordial, fast-paced, generous, and policy-focused,” Tom thrives in a structured yet supportive setting where collaboration and compassion go hand in hand.

Outside of work, Tom and Nancy enjoy dancing, cheering on their favorite football teams, and spending quality time with their children and grandchildren. Their faith and involvement in church also play a central role in their lives, providing a grounding balance to Tom’s dedication to his work.