Tommy has been shaping boards for over 25 years. Tommy's dad was his biggest influence as he started his shaping journey during his teen years. As he progressed he looked to shapers like Ben Aipa, Carl Schaper, Cino, Kashiwai and Glenn Pang. He continually draws inspiration from nature and beauty around him to put into the boards he makes for his customers.

Tommy Likes to keep his lines clean and simple. Everything needs to blend and flow together which drives his eyes and hands to shape boards that glide smooth and clean on waves. Through the years he's been able to work with a lot of talented surfers and passionate surfers that helped to refine his shapes and knowledge. Understanding not only what technically works but also how it will feel when riding is important. Tommy has to translate what the customer is saying into something that feels right under their feet. He's good at that.

Tommy is inspired by seeing all types of people riding his boards. "There are so many good shapers in Hawaii and it's an honor to have my name on people's boards." He's also very inspired by his family. Tommy never takes for granted the privilege he has making boards for surfers. It brings him a lot of joy to see and hear people feel so much joy from riding his boards.

Tommy looks to keep developing new designs and giving his customers what they want. He's always open to new ideas and figuring out how to create that next magic stick. His passion is easy to feel when you speak with him. The stoke is real and we love it. He's a great representative of what we are here at T&C. Mahalo, Tommy for your talents and dedication to making the best surfboards you can.

Past/Present Team Riders:

John-Paul Kaleopa'a, Genki Kino, Kanai Sharsh, Kama Clark, Kapono Nahina, Nelson Ahina, Dino Miranda and Alicia Kelley to name a few.

IG: @tanakasurfboardshawaii