01/18/2026
January 2, 2026 marked a noteworthy milestone for Tommy Sansom—his 50th anniversary in the office products and furniture industry. His journey began in Lubbock, Texas, at Frank McGlaun Office Supply, where as an 18-year-old he started out unloading rail cars and trucks of office furniture. From those early, hands-on days to today, Tommy’s career has come full circle. He is now the President and co-owner of Officewise Furniture and Supply, the company that evolved from the one he first worked for as a young man.
During his two and a half years at McGlaun’s, Tommy gained experience in several areas of the business including furniture installation, supply delivery, warehouse operations, shipping and receiving, and inside sales. From 1978 to 2008, he built a strong career as a sales representative, primarily in the wholesale distribution channel. Along the way, he developed expertise in sales, marketing, operations, IT, purchasing—and even a brief stint in design believe it or not.
Tommy credits his longevity and success to God’s blessing on his life, which included marrying Tina, his wife of almost 50 years. Together they raised two children: their daughter, Nicole Cryer, who now works at Officewise, and their son, Eric Sansom, a commercial lender at City Bank in Lubbock. Eric and his wife have five children, and Tommy is grateful that his entire family lives within ten minutes of him in Lubbock.
Throughout his career, Tommy “learned the business” at companies such as Stationers Distributing, Dallas Pen Company, Buddy Brown & Associates, C&L Pen Company, and United Stationers. His 16 years at United Stationers were especially influential and proved to be the most important preparation for becoming an owner of Officewise Furniture and Supply. In 2008, although it was difficult to leave United Stationers, Tommy felt strongly that it was time to step away from the wholesale world and return to the dealer level. He took a leap of faith with what is now Officewise—and it turned out to be the right decision.
Since Officewise was his largest customer for many years, Tommy already knew the company well and understood the three West Texas markets it serves. Thanks to great partners, employees, and customers, Officewise has more than tripled its sales over the past 16 years.
“I am so thankful for the people that believed in me over these 50 years,” Tommy says. “I have to start with Tina, Nicole, and Eric. They have always been 100% supportive of me.” He also credits many industry leaders who had a profound influence on his career, including Bob Anders, Richard Petty, Brian McPeak, Danny Brooks, Joe Templet, Steve Sailers, Shelly Hill, Ron Watts, Ron Edmondson and his partners today, John Navarrete, Cathryn Dail, Lindley Herring, and Lupe Zermeno.
“In 50 years I learned so much from so many people. Those many personal experiences have made my journey extremely rewarding,” Tommy reflects. “I am proud of our company and their professionalism and heart for what we do. Officewise is in great hands today, but I still plan to be here and working for a few more years. My hope and belief is: The Best Is Yet To Come!”
