Born in Burbank, Thomas Orlando grew up in the San Fernando Valley and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in business administration at California State University, Northridge. Following a successful four-year stint as a sales associate with food and beverage wholesaler, Young’s Market Company, he joined the staff of Los Angeles-based manufacturing concern CTD Machines, Inc. where he became sales manager before becoming owner, President and CEO. He left the company when it was sold in 2007, and currently manages several industrial properties in Southern California.

Mr. Orlando currently serves as a director on the board of Daum Commercial Real Estate Services, and previously served on the boards for the Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America and the Association of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers. He was president of the latter trade organization’s board in 2002 and 2003.

Mr. Orlando previously served on the Music Academy Board of Directors from 2012 until 2022 where he helped oversee the reconstruction of the Marilyn Horne Main House and the construction of Hind Hall. He was the Chairperson for the Finance Committee for seven years during his previous terms. He has also served on the Investment Committee and the Buildings and Grounds Committee as well as the Executive Committee.