Leader Under 40: Stephen Thomas

Mr. Stephen Thomas, 37
Automation Projects Team Lead, ExxonMobil Research and Engineering
Fairfax, Va.

Academics

B.S. Chemical Engineering, Auburn University

Achievements

托马斯在奥林公司开始自己的职业生涯,他在那里contributed to the development of Olin’s groundbreaking OMNX PC-based DCS. He helped deploy such cutting edge technologies as a web-based HMI, email alarms, and fault-tolerant Ethernet networks. Upon joining ExxonMobil Research and Engineering (EMRE) in 2005, Thomas’ initial assignment was a major control system replacement project, replacing obsolete mainframe systems at three European refineries. As the OM+S Execution Lead, he was responsible for the development of all the Oil Movements and Storage (OM+S) functionality in the new systems. This major development effort involved leading a “virtual team” spread over 7 countries. Recently, Thomas completed the startup of a major refinery revamp project in Thailand. He was responsible for all of the I+CS scope. The project included the design and implementation of a High Integrity Pressure Protection System (HIPPS), a SIL3 SIS that is typically the most critical SIS in the refinery. Today, Thomas has returned to the U.S. and has taken on the role of Automation Projects Team Lead in ExxonMobil’s downstream engineering office.

Non-work-related activity

Thomas enjoys travel and experiencing new cultures. His recent assignment in Thailand gave him the opportunity to do both. He visited several locations in Thailand, from the streets of Bangkok, to the beautiful islands in the South, to the poorer farming region in the Northeast. As an engineer, it was particularly fascinating to see the impact of new technology on these poorer rural areas, where he witnessed people without air conditioning or TVs updating their Facebook status on their Smartphones!

Engineering-related activity

Thomas is currently in training to achieve certification as a Certified Functional Safety Expert (CFSE). Beyond the personal career benefits of certification, it is important that the I+CS engineering profession as a whole continues to work on improving recognition as a distinct engineering discipline. Participation in professional societies and certification programs supports these valuable efforts.

Interesting details

Thomas is technically a high school dropout. When his parents moved the family after his Junior year in high school, rather than changing high schools, he obtained early admission to the local university. Although he holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering, he has no high school diploma or GED.

Began interest

Thomas’ interest in control systems did not start until relatively late, specifically during his first process control lab in college. Beyond all of the complex mathematics of process control (pardon the pun), he was hooked by the “magic” of making the computer actually do real stuff in the real world. Fifteen years and many projects later, the magic is still there. Between the specifications, calculations, and reviews, it is important to remember that what we do is fun!

Do you have experience and expertise with the topics mentioned in this content? You should consider contributing to our CFE Media editorial team and getting the recognition you and your company deserve. Clickhereto start this process.