2025 Presenter

Thomas McNulty

CSCS (ret), House Manager to Private Family in the DC area

We asked each one of our presenters a series of questions

Below are Mr. McNulty’s answers:

Q. What is the highlight of your career?

Answer:

Serving as Senior Enlisted Aide and Chef to three Vice Presidents of the United States.

Q. What are challenges you encounter in your career?

Answer:​

Ever-changing food costs, dietary restrictions, timing and scheduling issues, and travel. Staffing is also a challenge. Many times, it is very hard to make sure you hire the right person. Trust is key in my profession, and this is not a place to train or learn as you go. Finding the right fit and temperament is essential to ensuring things are kept at the highest level.

Q. How did you get to this career?

Answer:​

I joined the Navy in 1999 intending to serve for four years and then go to culinary school. Because of my hard work and culinary abilities, I was selected as an Enlisted Aide to Commander Navy Region Northwest and eventually worked my way up to Senior Enlisted Aide to the Vice President. After retiring in 2019, I networked and was able to choose the family I work for today.

Q. What is something unique about your career most people might not know or understand about what you do?

Answer:​

We handle and take care of everything, and many people do not realize how much goes into everyday life for the principal. From the dog’s vet appointments, stocking the right drinks, ensuring there is food when they arrive at their destination, and even having the right pillow for the bed in the hotel.

Q. What type of education or degrees are required to pursue this career?

Answer:​

Culinary school, household management school, military training, and other education can help, but there are no specific requirements.