After graduating with B.S. and M.S. degrees in civil engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology, Tracy Thomas practiced as a civil engineering consultant and engineering manager for 16 years. In response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, she answered the call to public service and joined the Foreign Service where she dedicated her skills to the advancement of diplomacy and security for the diplomatic corps serving abroad. She served in foreign locations in Mali, Fiji, Yemen, and Pakistan and was promoted through the ranks at the State Department to reach the class of Minister Counselor which is the highest rank that a civil engineer can hold in the Foreign Service. In her role as Managing Director, she directed Construction and Security Management programs with oversight of a global construction program valued at $12 billion. She is well-known for her collaboration, negotiation, crisis management, industry engagement, team building skills, and advocacy.
Practicing her vocation in a global context was a dream come true for Tracy. She engaged in friendship and community outreach throughout her professional career and has a passion to make a positive impact on those around her. She contributed knowledge, skills, and experience as a volunteer constructing a school in Chile, developing a clean water distribution system in Honduras, and reviewing community gardens in Nicaragua. She is President of the Academy of Civil Engineers at Missouri University of Science and Technology and an accomplished public speaker.