Tom Schultz

Chief

U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service

Tom Schultz is Chief of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, leading a workforce of approximately 33,000 employees responsible for sustainably managing 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. As the 21st Chief, he brings decades of experience across public lands management, industry, and government service, including leadership roles with the Idaho Department of Lands, Montana’s Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, and the forest products industry. A former U.S. Air Force officer, Schultz emphasizes active forest management, strong partnerships, and community-focused stewardship. He holds degrees from the University of Virginia, the University of Wyoming, and the University of Montana, and is an avid outdoorsman and fly fisherman.