Forty Under 40: Thomas Bolinger, 33

After beginning his career in the poultry industry with Tyson Foods Inc., eventually rising to superintendent of the Berry Street plant in August 2001, Thomas Bolinger decided to make a change.

His instincts led him to inquire about a position with Wal-Mart Stores Inc. He began as a buyer trainee in November 2003, and has worked his way through the ranks to become senior buyer over the fresh and frozen chicken categories.

Bolinger, originally from Huntsville, began working for the Butterball turkey plant in Huntsville while still in high school.

He was headed to Arkansas Tech before a boss asked if Bolinger had considered studying poultry science.

Bolinger did, in fact, earn a poultry science degree from the University of Arkansas in 2000. He now finds himself responsible for buying the product that comes into Walmart stores throughout the U.S., which equates to more than $1 billion in annual sales.

“I had no idea when I was going to school to get this degree that I would be working for the largest company in the world doing what I am doing today,” Bolinger said.

He also helped with the rollout of the “All Natural” chicken line earlier this year, and said the most satisfying part of his job is helping customers save money.

Bolinger is director of the UA Poultry Science Alumni Group and is involved with Arkansas Children’s Hospital’s Kampaign for Kids.