James A. (Gene) Thomas
James A. (Gene) Thomas was born in Meridian, MS on September 4, 1934. He graduated from Meridian High School in 1953. He then went on Mississippi State University where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in electrical engineering, graduating in 1962. He then began working with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration program where he excelled and progressed rapidly. He finished his formal education at Florida State University, graduating with a Master’s Degree in Technical Management. He married his high school girlfriend in 1956.
History of Work with NASA
Thomas began work for NASA as an engineer in 1962. He became the lead flight project for Kennedy Space Center’s engineering team in 1976. He was the Lead Orbiter Flight Project Engineer for the OV 102, Space Shuttle Columbia from November 1977 to June 1983. In June he became Chief, Shuttle Flight Project Engineer, and Shuttle Engineering Directorate. He was responsible for integration of all checkouts and testing of Shuttle Orbiters, external tanks, and solid rocket booster flight hardware. He held that position until 1985 when he became Acting Director, Director of Shuttle Launch and Landing Operations, and Launch Director. He held this position during the Challenger tragedy, giving the final “go” for launch. This tragedy had a great impact on his life, later inspiring him to publish articles and write a book about the experience. He became the Director of Safety, Reliability and Quality Assurance at the Kennedy Space Center in February 1987. He then was promoted to Deputy Director of Kennedy Space Center in 1990 and held that position until his retirement in 1997.
Writing and Speaking Career
Thomas published When All America Grieved in Guidepost Magazine in January 2000. He has also written a book titled Some Trust in Chariots. It was published in 2006 through Xulon Press. Thomas also speaks publicly about the impact the Challenger tragedy had on his life spiritually, speaking around the country at many Christian Churches.