A CAREER OF DEDICATION: NORTH SAILS MILWAUKEE BIDS FAREWELL TO TOM PEASE
Celebrating a career defined by a passion for sailing, dedication to the craft, and meaningful connections along the way
After more than four decades with North Sails, Tom Pease is setting his course toward retirement. His journey with the company has been marked by dedication, innovation, and—most importantly—lasting relationships with colleagues and customers alike. As he reflects on his career, it’s clear that Tom’s story is as much about people as it is about sails.
Like many great sailing stories, Tom’s began almost by chance. “I started working at North Sails in Pewaukee, WI during my senior year of high school,” he recalls. “After graduating, I decided to take a year to get my head screwed on straight. My gap year turned into a career with North Sails spanning over 40 years, with a 10-year break in the middle to discover that I was definitely more of a shorts and flip-flops guy than a coat and tie guy.”
That “gap year” became a lifelong career—one that saw Tom take on nearly every role possible within the loft. “It would be easier to list the roles I haven’t done,” he says with a laugh. From shipper and handwork to service manager, production manager, designer, and sales, his hands-on experience gave him a deep appreciation for every stage of sailmaking. “I believe at one time I was in charge of bottle washing and floor sweeping too.”
ACHIEVEMENTS BEYOND THE SAILS
When asked about proudest moments or standout projects, Tom doesn’t point to a single trophy or design. Instead, his pride comes from the everyday impact of his work. “Sometimes it was recutting a sail that helped the client better compete, sometimes it was sailing with a client and giving them a memorable day—whether racing or getting a better understanding of trimming, tactics, or boat preparation.” The most rewarding part of his career? The people. 'What matters most are the many clients and crews who have become good friends over the years. The moments I remember best are when challenges with me or our sails turned into mutual respect and lasting trust
A FRONT-ROW SEAT TO CHANGE
Sailmaking has evolved dramatically since Tom first started in Pewaukee. “While I didn’t make any new cotton sails, I did work on some, so I guess I’d start with materials,” he reflects. From Dacron and early laminates to today’s long-lasting 3Di technology, he’s witnessed firsthand how innovation has reshaped the sport.
The boats themselves tell a similar story: “Wooden Universal Rule boats to aluminum winch farms to fiberglass, then composite boats; lighter, stronger, faster—in many ways easier to sail.” Add in the leap from dead reckoning to GPS, weather routing, and instant communication, and it’s clear just how far sailing has come during Tom’s time in the industry.
WHAT HE’LL MISS MOST
For Tom, the answer comes easily: “The people, the clients, their crews—lots of good friends and great memories.” That sense of connection also shapes his advice to future North Sails salesmen: “Get out there, do your best, and enjoy the moment and the people. There are all kinds of levels of intensity in this sport—embrace them all.”
As for retirement, Tom admits the plans are still evolving. “I haven’t quite figured that one out yet. We’ll get there… but stay in touch, I ain’t dead yet!” Gratitude runs deep in his reflections, especially for the Pewaukee team. “We weren’t a business; we were a family. Getting to know colleagues across the company, hearing their stories and grievances over a beer—that’s what built teamwork.”
Looking back, Tom is proud of what makes North Sails unique: its relentless commitment to technology and innovation. “Everyone talks about it, but North really invests in it. The Science of Sailing never left the North Sails brand.”
After decades of shaping sails, supporting customers, and forging friendships, Tom’s retirement marks the close of an extraordinary chapter. His presence will be missed, but the impact he’s made—on both the company and the people who’ve worked alongside him—will resonate for years to come.
Fair winds, Tom. Thank you for everything.
