Robert D. Thomas, FASTM, FTMS, is the President and CEO of CMHA, the newly formed Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association, which reflects a unification in 2022 of the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) and the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA).
CMHA is a national trade association representing the interests of manufacturers, suppliers, contractors, dealers and other parties involved in segmental concrete products and systems, including concrete masonry, interlocking concrete pavement, segmental retaining walls, and masonry stone veneer. CMHA contributes to the growth and development of these industries through advocacy on codes, standards, federal regulations, and legislation; offering education and certification programs for professionals involved in design, construction, sales, and manufacturing; promoting the value of segmental concrete product systems and conducting industry research in support of market growth; and conducting tradeshows to bring together different segments of the industry and to provide an opportunity for business development.
With over 30 years of industry and association experience, Thomas joined NCMA in 1990 as a research engineer and later managed NCMA’s Research and Development Manager. He subsequently served as vice president of engineering and research, overseeing the technical activities of the Association including development of codes and standards, development of technical publications and software, technical inquiry response, engineering seminars, developing material quality control programs, and providing consulting and testing for new product development. In 2008, he was named President of NCMA and in 2022 as President/CEO of CMHA.
Thomas is a member of numerous organizations related to association management, including the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), the Council of Manufacturing Associations (CMA) of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), and the Concrete and Masonry-Related Associations (CAMRA).
He has also been an active member of many technical and professional organizations. Thomas is a strong advocate for The Masonry Society, previously serving on its Board of Directors and executive committee, and recognized as a Fellow (FTMS). He has previously served on the Board of Directors for the Building Seismic Safety Council (BSSC), which operates under a contract with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). He is a member of, and has previously chaired, the Concrete And Masonry-Related Associations (CAMRA). He has received the highest recognition from ASTM International, the International Award of Merit, earning the title of Fellow (FASTM). He has previously chaired ASTM’s Subcommittee C15.03 on Concrete Masonry Units (which also includes jurisdiction of interlocking concrete paving units) and C12.02 Subcommittee on Research and Methods of Testing for mortars and grout for unit masonry.
Thomas holds a Master of Science Degree in Structural Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin and received his B.S. Degree in Civil Engineering from North Carolina State University. He has also completed the Institute for Organizational Management program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
