Thomas MacEntee

Thomas MacEntee stands at the crossroads of technology and family history, translating decades of technical know-how into practical guidance for modern genealogists. A Baby Boomer with an equal appreciation for punk rock energy and Renaissance Art, he built a nearly 25-year career in information technology before choosing to focus full-time on the stories that matter most—those passed down through families.

That passion took root in January 1977, when watching the mini-series Roots at his great-grandparents’ home sparked a lifelong fascination with ancestry and identity. Over time, Thomas recognized that technology and historical research aren’t opposites at all—they’re powerful partners. Since 2010, he has shared that insight through more than 1,000 in-person and virtual lectures, board service with numerous genealogical societies, and by organizing and mentoring a thriving community of over 1,000 genealogy bloggers. Along the way, he has helped researchers save money, avoid tech overwhelm, and confidently choose the tools that move their research forward.

Today, Thomas is actively reshaping how genealogists learn. He champions smart, accessible technology, encourages researchers to experiment beyond their comfort zones, and advocates for better ways to preserve family stories and heirlooms for future generations. His work continues to bridge past and future—one skill, one story, and one breakthrough at a time.