Thomas Ess of East Aurora, NY has been promoted to Associate Vice President at People Inc. Ess has held positions as a developmental specialist, program manager, program administrator, senior program manager and program director. He has his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Allegheny College. He is currently finishing an MA in Human Service Administration from Buffalo State College. Ess’ new position will involve oversight of residential operations for the Intermediate Care Facility Department and a portion of the Individualized Residential Alternative Department, oversight of free standing respite and engaging the community.

Ess wants community members to know that People Inc. can offer so much and so many opportunities. He said, “The friendships I have made with individuals and coworkers at People Inc. are irreplaceable. They have taught me more than I could ever teach or give them. I am a very lucky man to have them in my life.”

Ess first heard about People Inc. from The Buffalo News in the employment section after he graduated from college. He recalled, “Shortly into my career at People Inc., I was provided the opportunity and great responsibility of being a program manager in my home town of East Aurora. I remember showing up for my first day as manager at 6 a.m. I was greeted by one individual who promptly told me his life story. I felt right at home.” Ess concluded that, “Every day at People Inc. is an opportunity to do something meaningful.”

Ess is also actively involved in serving his community as a Former Assistant Chief and Current Captain of the East Aurora Fire Department. He is a part-time Public Safety Dispatcher for the East Aurora Police Department and Fire Control. Ess serves as ADA Coordinator for the Village of East Aurora. Additionally, he serves as Vice Chairperson of the Enterprise Charter School board of trustees and graduate of Leadership Buffalo Class of 2013.