Thomas Bell began his career as an iron worker apprentice for Iron Workers Local Union 79, Norfolk, Virginia, in 1997 and became a journeyman in 2001. Since 2007, he has held the position of Business Manager/Financial Secretary-Treasurer for Local 79. Prior to being elected Business Manager/FS-T, Tommy served the local union as Executive Committee member, Recording Secretary, and apprentice instructor. In 2005 he was appointed as a trustee on the Health, Pension, and Annuity funds for Local 79. Tommy is also active in the Eastern Virginia Labor Federation, where he has previously held the positions of Financial Secretary-Treasurer and Recording Secretary. He is also the President of the Hampton Roads Building and Construction Trades Council, as well as Financial Secretary-Treasurer for the Virginia State Building and Construction Trades Department. Shortly after graduating from high school, Tommy served in the U.S. Army as an infantryman, and is currently a member of the Union Veterans Council.