Terence Thomas, Image courtesy of Giffels Webster
Once regarded as a symbol of industrial decay, Detroit is now experiencing a remarkable renaissance. A series of ambitious new developments are transforming its skyline and redefining the heart of the city. This revitalization extends beyond mere aesthetics; it is a comprehensive transformation spearheaded by visionary engineers such as Terence Thomas.
As a key partner at Giffels Webster, a firm deeply invested in Detroit’s revitalization since its inception in 1952, Thomas has dedicated nearly a quarter of a century to laying the groundwork for the city’s promising future. His efforts ensure that Detroit’s resurgence is visible through striking architectural innovations and modern public spaces and fortified with sustainable practices and thoughtful planning, solidifying its rebirth for future generations.
Born and raised in Neptune, New Jersey, Thomas’ fascination with science and engineering began at a young age. Programs like PACE (Programs for Accelerated Careers in Engineering) gave him early exposure to advanced engineering concepts, fueling his ambition. After earning his undergraduate and master’s degrees at North Carolina A&T State University, Thomas embarked on a career that would position him as a key figure in Detroit’s urban evolution.
Beyond his contributions to Detroit’s infrastructure, Thomas is deeply committed to mentoring young engineers. He recognizes the challenges of navigating the civil engineering field and emphasizes learning from mistakes and developing creative solutions. His passion extends to advocating for diversity in the industry, working to create opportunities for underrepresented groups through mentorship and guidance. By fostering pathways for aspiring engineers, he ensures that the next generation is equipped to drive Detroit’s continued growth.
Thomas highlights his journey of hard work, which made him one of the only Black people working at Giffels Webster’s. He emphasizes that changes are happening in the industry. With the recent DEI executive order and cooperation rolling back their diversity programs, including higher education, namely affirmative action, it’s imperative for roles and role models like Thomas to be an example of change.
“I see a lot of people of color working in the city of Detroit. Mostly I work on the private side. We do a lot of land development. I would say approximately 85 to 90% of our work is in Detroit,” Thomas said.
“I am the only Black engineer, but it is still very diverse. We have a lot of women in our office, more than your average consulting firm.”
Thomas has been instrumental in some of the city’s most significant projects. He managed Giffels Webster’s civil engineering efforts for Little Caesars Arena, coordinating complex infrastructure components such as roadways, public utilities, and surrounding developments, including parking structures and outdoor plazas. Today, he is leading similar efforts for Hudson’s Detroit, a high-profile project contributing to the revitalization of downtown. His expertise has also been pivotal in the streamlined urban infrastructure planning for the Godfrey Hotel in Corktown, further enhancing Detroit’s architectural landscape.
However, Thomas also helped to develop the inner parts of Detroit throughout the neighborhoods.
“It’s housing, and it’s providing a cornerstone of the revitalization, I believe, of these neighborhoods, some being historical in nature. We love the opportunity to work with developers and owners,” Thomas said.
“We pride ourselves on being able to know the city and how the process works, as well as all the permitting and the approvals, and we were happy to help them navigate and kind of walk them through that process as a part of our design.”
As Detroit’s revitalization progresses, Black figures like Thomas remain integral to its future. His dedication to urban infrastructure and mentorship strengthens the city’s foundation and inspires a new wave of engineers to shape the cities of tomorrow.
Thomas highlighted that he looks forward to continuing to teach young engineers and working with the community.
“Providing exposure for things that will help shape their careers, and also reaching out into the community the best way we can as a company, and trying to give folks exposure to what we do,” Thomas said.
“Bringing those kids into the office and giving them exposure to the things that they’re going to see once they graduate, and trying to give them a head start is really exciting. So that’s what I’m looking forward to for 2025.”
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