Tom Smith developed a reputation as one of the nation's leading agricultural bankers. Tom contributed to numerous publications including The Wall Street Journal, Wallace's Farmer, Success Farming, and Money Magazine. He also co-authored chapters in banking textbooks, was featured in film productions by John Deere, and at the 1987 American Bankers Association Convention, appeared in a film concerning the agricultural crisis. Tom was an active 4-H member for seven years and was county president. He entered Iowa State University in 1942. That same year he entered the U.S. Army and served three and a half years with the 69th Infantry Division in Europe during World War II.