John E. Thomas

Professor specializing in the intersection of engineering and social science, Dr. John E. Thomas is a distinguished faculty member at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he contributes to the Civil and Environmental Engineering department. Since joining the Lockheed Martin Engineering Management Program in 2020 as a Professor of Engineering Practice, Dr. Thomas has leveraged his extensive industry experience to enrich the academic environment. With over 25 years in the fields of wireless communications, software, and defense radar, Dr. Thomas has honed his expertise in product development, leadership, and strategic partnerships. His professional journey has equipped him with a deep understanding of the complex dynamics that underpin technological systems and their societal impacts. This unique perspective informs his research, which is centered on failure analysis, disaster resilience, socio-technical systems, human resilience, and critical infrastructure. Dr. Thomas's academic pursuits are driven by a commitment to enhancing the resilience of communities and infrastructures in the face of disasters and systemic failures. His work explores the critical interplay between human resilience and socio-technical systems, aiming to develop strategies that bolster the robustness of critical infrastructure. This research is particularly relevant in today's world, where the frequency and severity of disasters pose significant challenges to societal stability. As a co-founder of the Resilience Engineering Institute, Dr. Thomas has been instrumental in advancing the field of resilience engineering. The institute serves as a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together experts from various fields to address the pressing issues related to resilience and sustainability. Through this initiative, Dr. Thomas continues to contribute to the development of innovative solutions that enhance the resilience of both human and technical systems. Dr. Thomas holds a Ph.D. in Civil, Environmental, and Sustainable Engineering from Arizona State University, where he developed a strong foundation in the principles of engineering and sustainability. His academic background, combined with his industry experience, positions him as a thought leader in the field of resilience engineering. In addition to his research and teaching responsibilities, Dr. Thomas is actively involved in mentoring students and young professionals, guiding them as they navigate the complexities of engineering and its societal implications. His dedication to education and mentorship reflects his belief in the transformative power of knowledge and its potential to drive positive change in the world.